NAAAP Dumpling-Eating Contest
RSVP deadline Fri., March 23, contest Sat., March 31, 1-3 p.m., $10-$30
The National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) is holding its inaugural dumpling-eating contest to benefit the Prodigy Program, which provides mentoring to students in association with Big Brothers and Big Sisters. The competition, which'll take place at Sang Kee, isn't until March 31, but the RSVP deadline for both contestants and attendees is March 23. RSVP by emailing mang.chang@naaapphilly.org. Sang Kee Peking Duck House, 238 N. Ninth St., 215-925-7532, naaapphilly.org.
Greek Independence Day at Opa
Sun., March 25, 5-11 p.m., pay as you go
Opa is opening its doors this Sunday (a day it's usually closed) to celebrate the date of Greece's liberation from the Ottomans. They'll be serving a traditional menu that focuses on bakalao, Greek salt cod. They're also offering small plates that include grilled octopus with chickpea fondue and slider-style mini lamb gyros. Antho cocktails are $7 and craft beers are $4. Opa, 1311 Sansom St., 215-545-0170, opaphiladelphia.com.
Philly Stake at First Unitarian Church
Sun., March 25, 5-8 p.m., $20
Join Philly Stake to make a difference while enjoying a locally sourced meal. It works like this: Groups deliver proposals for worthy community projects to paying members of the Stake crowd while they eat (the menu includes beer-braised greens, fresh nettle/squash pasta and cheese courtesy of Di Bruno's). Guests vote after the meal for the most compelling presentation, which then receives the proceeds from the evening. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online or at the door. First Unitarian Church, 2125 Chestnut St., phillystake.org.
Fishtown Chili Cook-Off
Sun., March 25, 1-4 p.m., $15
The Fishtown Neighbors Association is holding its second annual chili cook-off this Sunday. Attendees cast votes for one of 20 different chilis, 15 from local restaurants (Pickled Heron, Interstate Draft House, Loco Pez, etc.) and five from amateur cooks. Wash down your chili with beers by Philadelphia Brewing Co. and St. Benjamin's. This year's judges will be CP's Drew Lazor, food writer Joy Manning and state Rep. Mike O'Brien. Proceeds benefit the FNA and RiverWards Crime Watch. Tickets can be purchased online. Skybox at 2424 Studios, 2424 E. York St., fishtown.org.
