Wednesday Nights: Reentry Simulation

$17 online in advance, $20 at the door (subject to availability).

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Reflect on some of the many structural challenges people face when returning home from prison. During this hands-on experience, you’ll be assigned a fictitious back story and persona then encounter simulated scenarios that mirror real-life tasks like finding a job, reporting to a parole office, and paying bills. At the end of the activity, you’ll debrief your experience and discuss the criminal justice system and complexities of reentry.

About Wednesday Nights:

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site opens its gates this summer for Wednesday Nights! With a different theme each week, Wednesday Nights provide a fun and meaningful night out—combining history, culture, and entertainment in a one-of-a-kind setting. Enjoy immersive experiences, interactive events, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to one of Philadelphia’s most unique landmarks.

Take a curated, self-guided audio tour by scanning QR codes throughout the historic site. Engage with exhibits, art installations, and pop-up talks highlighting the history of Eastern State Penitentiary and the impact of the criminal justice system today. Sit for artist Mark Loughney, and add your portrait to his growing installation Pyrrhic Defeat. Reflect and connect in The Fair Chance Beer Garden—offering soft drinks, small-batch craft beer, wine, and cocktails—presented in partnership with Triple Bottom Brewing.

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We strive to make the penitentiary and our site, programs, and exhibits accessible to all visitors. Click here to learn more about accessibility and accommodations at ESPHS.