A&E: Do You Know When to Hold ’Em?

Don’t learn from a country song — let local pros show you how at Philly’s oldest pub

Disappointed about your Fantasy Football draft? Maybe you’ll have better odds at Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating pub, McGillin’s Old Ale House. Every Thursday, the Philadelphia Poker League hosts free Texas Hold ’Em tournaments in McGillin’s second-floor bar. Players of all levels are welcome, and McGillin’s provides chips, cards and

Disappointed about your Fantasy Football draft? Maybe you’ll have better odds at Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating pub, McGillin’s Old Ale House. Every Thursday, the Philadelphia Poker League hosts free Texas Hold ’Em tournaments in McGillin’s second-floor bar. Players of all levels are welcome, and McGillin’s provides chips, cards and — for those beginners out there — lessons. Although no gambling is allowed, winners receive gift certificates and, of course, bragging rights. And if you’re really good enough, you just might provide some stiff competition for those that are ranked (yes, ranked) in the Philadelphia Poker League.

Don’t sweat it if you’re just a beginner, though — a lousy hand will go down easier with $5 pitchers, $2.99 margaritas and the large selection of regional microbrews, including the ever-popular and locally brewed Stoudt’s.

8:30 p.m. every Thursday; free. 1310 Drury Street (north of Sansom just off the corner of Juniper). 215-735-5562, www.mcgillins.com.