Saturday

Red Cross red carpet

The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter will host its 9th Annual Red Ball at 8 p.m. Saturday at the National Constitution Center (525 Arch St.). Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jon Runyan is the honorary chairman. More than 30 restaurants are donating dishes and there will be a martini bar, a band and dancing. Staff from fire trucks and aid vehicles will serve hot coffee to guests as they exit. General admission is $150 and tickets are available by calling 1-800-292-4200 or online at www.theredball.org. VIP tickets, $250, include a 7 p.m. private lounge reception, early access to the main event and VIP chefs, a cigar bar, gourmet chocolates and a special gift. Proceeds benefit the Red Cross House, a West Philadelphia residence where local families begin to recover from fires, floods and other disasters.

Saturday-Sunday

Breakfast in Whoville

Saturday and Sunday could be great days to take the kids to breakfast and promote reading. Local IHOP restaurants have added Dr. Seuss-inspired items, like green eggs and ham, Who-cakes and beezlenut splash, to their menus. The special fare coincides with the release of the film Horton Hears a Who!, which opens today. Information: www.ihop.com.

Wednesday

Health kernels

King Corn is a documentary following two friends who decide to move to Iowa and plant an acre of corn. Along the way, they learn of the corn industry's contribution to American obesity, through corn-fed beef and high-fructose corn syrup. The Independent Television Service and WHYY are presenting a free advance screening of King Corn at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the WHYY Civic Space (150 N. Sixth St.). Afterward, public health and agriculture experts will talk. To reserve seats, call 215-351-0511 or go to www.whyy.org. The film will be shown on PBS's Independent Lens at 11 p.m. April 18.

Saturday

A spirited St. Patrick's

For those who think ghost stories are reserved for Halloween, check out "In Heaven B'fore the Devil Knows You're Dead: A Tour and Toast to St. Patrick" at 2 p.m. Saturday at Laurel Hill Cemetery (3822 Ridge Ave.). Following a walking tour of this national historic landmark, visitors will gather at the historic gatehouse for beer and a celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Cost: $25, but space is limited. Reservations: 215-228- 8200. Information: www.theundergroundmuseum.org.