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Author: Earl Hopkins

  • 🎆 Celebrate the nation’s birthday | Things to do

    🎆 Celebrate the nation’s birthday | Things to do

    You’ve been hearing about America’s semiquincentennial all year, and now the celebration is finally here.

    Flags will fly, marching bands will play, and fireworks will light up the sky this Independence Day weekend.

    Whether you’re looking for patriotic pageantry, concerts, or family fun, it’s shaping up to be a Fourth of July weekend unlike any other.

    Also in this week’s edition:

    — Earl Hopkins (@earlhopkins_, Email me at thingstodo@inquirer.com)

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Your Independence Day playbook

    Fireworks rise, shortly after midnight, from behind the Art Museum during the New Year’s Eve concert and fireworks display, at the Oval on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. The event, featuring LL COOL J, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Adam Blackstone, hard rockers Dorothy, and Technician The DJ was a first for the City of Philadelphia and Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.

    As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Philadelphia and the surrounding region are packed with celebrations, concerts, and fireworks displays.

    Arts intern Morgan Ritter rounded up the best places to watch fireworks across Philadelphia, the suburbs, South Jersey, and the Shore, while I have everything you need to know before heading to the city’s free July 4 concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

    This year’s One Philly: Unity Concert for America features Christina Aguilera, Jill Scott, Will Smith, Meek Mill, The Roots, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Seal, and more before the city’s official fireworks spectacular.

    Read our complete guides to Fourth of July fireworks and the Parkway concert.

    The best things to do this week

    The interior of the First Bank of the United States is pictured on Monday, June 29, 2026 in Philadelphia. The bank reopens this week following a $27 million restoration project.

    🍿 Grab your popcorn: Free movie days at Philadelphia Film Society continues through Saturday. The lineup includes showings of Mean Girls and Independence Day — oh, so fitting.

    💸 Cha-ching!: Before the New York Stock Exchange was established, Philadelphia was the financial capital of the nation. This week, you can explore that history with the reopening of the First Bank of the United States. It’s open to the public for the first time in 50 years.

    🖼️ A revolutionary time: Stop by the Museum of the American Revolution for guided gallery tours, reenactment performances, printmaking demos, and other fun activities through Sunday.

    🎸 The sounds of freedom: Imagine Benjamin Franklin fronting a rock revolution. That’s the premise of The Sound of America, an electrifying musical that features 23 original songs, a walking tour, and a special remote cameo by Sir Roger Daltrey.

    📅 My calendar picks this week: Philly LOVES Stories at Fashion District, Open Streets: Midtown Village, BLACKTRONIKA: Now and Then at Silk City.

    Check out our full list of calendar picks here.

    The biggest America 250 events from now through Independence Day

    Members of the The Mattatuck Drum Band participate in the Salute to America Independence Day Parade, at Independence Hall, in Philadelphia, on the 4th of July, 2019. JESSICA GRIFFIN / Staff Photographer

    The city has already been buzzing with activity this summer, and it’s about to get even busier for America’s 250th birthday.

    From soccer to ballet, art to history, features reporter Dugan Arnett rounded up the can’t-miss events happening across Philadelphia and the region through Independence Day. His guide includes the Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square, the FIFA World Cup and FIFA Fan Festival, the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade, Pops on Independence, and dozens more celebrations.

    Read his full America 250 guide here.

    Summer fun this week and beyond

    Mr. Edison, the new restaurant at the Bellevue from Jeffrey Chodorow, in Philadelphia, June 23, 2026.

    📽️ Latino film on display: A celebration of Latino filmmakers and creatives continues through Sunday, as part of the annual Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival. The event, now in its 15th year, includes a lineup of feature films, documentaries, shorts, online series, and more visual projects.

    🎭 Dear, theater lovers: Sunday is your last chance to catch the six-time Tony Award winner, Dear Evan Hansen, at Arden Theater. Grab tickets while they last, or miss out on this emotional story about an anxious high schooler forced to confront a harrowing lie.

    🍸 New restaurant opening at the Bellevue: Thomas Edison designed the original lighting inside the Bellevue, so it’s only fitting that the hotel’s newest culinary offering honors the inventor. The newly opened supper club-inspired restaurant, Mr. Edison, is worth exploring.

    🥊 Philly’s true heavyweight champion: While fictional boxer Rocky Balboa has three statues in his honor, Philadelphia’s true undisputed heavyweight champion is finally getting his just due. A 12-foot bronze statue of boxing legend Joe Frazier was unveiled at the foot of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

    Staffer picks

    Here’s a list of the best concerts happening this week.

    Christina Aguilera performs “Cuando Me De la Gana” at the 23rd annual Latin Grammy Awards at the Mandalay Bay Michelob Ultra Arena on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

    🎸 Thursday: Just before the July 4 weekend festivities kick into full gear, Old City will host the Red, White & Blue Music Series that includes 28 local bands and groups spread across 11 museums.

    🎷 Friday: Saxophonist Ikechi Onyenaka will lead the Friday Night Jazz Series at Spruce Street Harbor Park.

    🎤 Saturday: The One Philly: United Concert for America will be a star-studded affair, featuring performances from Christina Aguilera, Jill Scott, Will Smith, Meek Mill and other notable stars.

    🎸 Sunday: Paul Simon is bringing his “A Quiet Celebration” tour to the TD Pavilion at Highmark Mann to close out the celebratory weekend.

    ❓Pop quiz

    What year did the first Independence Day celebration take place in Philadelphia?

    a) July 4, 1776?

    b) July 4, 1777?

    c) July 4, 1780?

    d) July 4, 1781?

    Here’s the answer to last week’s question: When did the Lit Brothers building first open? Answer: 1871

    Ask Earl anything

    I’m starting something new for the newsletter, and I want your participation.

    Many of you have questions about each week’s listings, and others about Philly’s arts, culture, and entertainment scene.

    I have you covered. Have a question? Email me for a chance to have it answered in an upcoming newsletter.

    Alright, folks! That’s all for this week’s edition of Things to Do. And if you couldn’t tell, it’s a celebratory moment — not only for the city, but for the nation. Enjoy this historical moment to the fullest.

    — Earl Hopkins

    Courtesy of Giphy.com

  • Everything you need to know about Philadelphia’s July Fourth concert and fireworks

    Philadelphia’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday culminates July 4 with a free concert and fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

    The One Philly: Unity Concert for America begins at 5 p.m. in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, featuring Christina Aguilera, Jill Scott, Meek Mill, Will Smith, The Roots, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jordan Davis, Seal, State Property, Kathy Sledge, and more.

    This year’s event is no longer part of the longtime Wawa Welcome America festival. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s administration took over production of the annual July Fourth concert, renamed it the One Philly: Unity Concert for America, and hired ESM Productions to produce the show.

    Wanda Sykes will emcee the concert, which concludes with the city’s official fireworks display over the Parkway.

    Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

    Fans react to the music as the Wawa Welcome America Festival concluded on July 4, 2023, with a free concert featuring Ludacris on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

    Schedule and entry

    Guests must enter through a secure checkpoint at 20th Street and Logan Circle, where security may search attendees and their bags. Gates open at 3 p.m.

    The concert will start around 5 p.m., followed by the fireworks around 11:30 p.m., according to city officials.

    Who is performing at Philadelphia’s Fourth of July Concert?

    Headliners include Christina Aguilera, Jill Scott, Meek Mill, Will Smith, The Roots, and DJ Jazzy Jeff.

    Other performers include Jordan Davis, Kathy Sledge, State Property, Seal, and several others.

    Fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Friday, July 4, 2025.

    Fireworks

    Following the concert, the city’s official July Fourth fireworks display will begin at about 11:30 p.m. The show will be visible from throughout the Parkway and surrounding neighborhoods.

    Looking for more fireworks? Here’s a full list of fireworks shows happening throughout the Philadelphia region.

    The concert and fireworks will also air live on NBC10 and Telemundo62.

    Road closures

    Unless otherwise noted, the following closures will be in effect from approximately 6 a.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Monday:

    • 1900 Race Street
    • 1800-1900 Vine Street
    • I-676 off-ramp at 22nd Street
    • I-676 on-ramp at 22nd Street
    • I-76 eastbound off-ramp at Spring Garden Street
    • Spring Garden Tunnel
    • Park Towne Place between 22nd and 24th Streets
    • 20th Street between Arch Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
    • 19th Street between Callowhill and Cherry Streets
    • Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 17th Street to Eakins Oval
    • Eakins Oval
    • Kelly Drive between Eakins Oval and Fairmount Avenue (inbound traffic closes at Fountain Green Drive beginning about 5 p.m.)
    • 2000-2100 Winter Street
    • Spring Garden Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and 31st Street
    • 23rd Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and Eakins Oval
    • 22nd Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
    • 21st Street between Winter Street and Pennsylvania Avenue
    • All roads from Arch Street to Spring Garden Street between 18th and 22nd Streets (local access maintained for residents)
    • All roads from Arch Street to Fairmount Avenue between 22nd and Corinthian Streets (local access maintained for residents)
    • 16th and 17th Streets between Arch Street and Spring Garden Street will close only if conditions warrant.
    • 1600-1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway will close only if conditions warrant.

    Beginning at 4 a.m. Saturday, the following roads also will close:

    • Anne d’Harnoncourt Drive behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art
    • Martin Luther King Jr. Drive from Falls Bridge to Eakins Oval

    From 8 p.m. Saturday until approximately 1 a.m. Sunday, Kelly Drive between Fairmount Avenue and Fountain Green Drive and Waterworks Drive also will be closed because of the fireworks display.

    Parking

    Temporary no-parking signs will be posted along streets affected by closures. Vehicles left in those areas will be courtesy towed to another nearby location.

    Public Transportation

    SEPTA

    On July 4, SEPTA Metro, buses and Regional Rail will operate on special schedules with enhanced service.

    Additional trips will run on the L and B lines.

    Most Regional Rail lines will offer additional inbound and outbound service before the fireworks. All Regional Rail lines except the Airport and Cynwyd lines will provide late-night outbound service from Jefferson Station, Suburban Station, and William H. Gray III 30th Street Station after the fireworks.

    Other SEPTA service will operate on a Sunday schedule. Routes without Sunday service will not operate.

    Routes 7, 32, 33, 38, 43, 48, and 49 will be detoured beginning at 5 a.m. Thursday through 5 p.m. Sunday because of road closures.

    SEPTA ambassadors will be stationed at major transit hubs to help direct passengers after the July 4 FIFA World Cup match and the One Philly concert and fireworks.

    Additional information is available on SEPTA’s July 4 service webpage. Riders can also check alerts on the SEPTA mobile app, at septa.org/alerts or by calling 215-580-7800.

    PATCO

    PATCO will operate on a holiday schedule July 4, with trains running every 10 minutes throughout the day. More information is available at ridepatco.org.

    Todd Marcocci (left) and Jeremy Williams work on a float on Monday for this year’s big Fourth of July parade, in Philadelphia.

    Fourth of July celebrations happening elsewhere in the area

    Fourth of July Freedom Festival at Pleasant Hill Park: 💵 Free, 🕒 July4, 5 to 9:30 p.m., 📍Linden Ave., Philadelphia, Pa 19136

    Philadelphia 4th of July Signature Dinner Cruise: 🕙 July 4, 7:30 p.m., 📍401 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 cityexperiences.com

    2026 Freedom Festival at Wiggins Park 💵 Free, 🕒 6 to 11 p.m., 📍2 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ 08103

  • No plans to reschedule Kirk Franklin’s canceled concert, Wawa officials say

    No plans to reschedule Kirk Franklin’s canceled concert, Wawa officials say

    Before gospel singer Kirk Franklin could take the stage at Sunday’s “Gospel on Independence” concert, the show was canceled due to severe weather.

    The concert, scheduled for 7 p.m. at Independence Mall, was initially postponed because of lightning and thunder detected in the area.

    Wawa Welcome America officials, who organized the concert, said there were plans to restart the show, but it was ultimately canceled due to inclement weather.

    There are currently no plans to reschedule Franklin’s show.

    Franklin, however, found a way to greet fans as he briefly stood on top of an SUV as the crowd exited Independence Mall.

    A downpour started shortly after his departure.

    In a video posted on his Instagram page, Franklin explained his intention to put on an “incredible concert.” “I was really excited about it,” he said in a video with the caption, “I need the weather to repent! LOL! 😂❤️🙏🏽.”

    “People were really disappointed,” he wrote. “But I need you to know that I’m more disappointed because I was really, really, really ready to go. I love Philadelphia. I’ll get back, man. I can’t let Philly down like that.”

    Fans stood for hours awaiting Franklin’s arrival.

    “My feet still hurting from standing out there waiting,” one fan commented under Franklin’s Instagram post.

    Kirk Franklin accepts the ultimate icon award during the BET Awards in 2025, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

    Not all of Franklin’s interactions with fans on Sunday were as jovial.

    In a now-viral social media video, Franklin is seen arguing with an attendee, who urged the singer to “repent” for his sins. Otherwise, he and his wife, Tammy Franklin, are “going to go to hell,” the attendee threatened.

    Franklin attempted to confront the unidentified man but was held back by several security guards.

    The man was eventually escorted out of the venue by law enforcement officers.

    Before the show’s cancelation, fans enjoyed the opening performances and food vendors at Sunday’s event at the Independence Mall, which was part of this week’s lineup of Wawa Welcome America Festival events and concerts.

    The celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday will continue with Tuesday’s Philadelphia Orchestra’s Pride concert, Thursday’s “Salute to Service” concert, and Friday’s Pops on Independence concert.

    On July 4, the free “One Philly: Unity Concert for America” will take place on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Featuring Christina Aguilera, Jill Scott, The Roots, and others, that show is not part of Wawa Welcome America but counts Wawa among its sponsors.

    For more information, visit july4thphilly.com.

  • ☀️ It’s officially summer | Things to do

    ☀️ It’s officially summer | Things to do

    Summer officially arrived this week, and Philly is wasting no time. World Cup matches return to Lincoln Financial Field, festivals are filling parks across the city, and outdoor concerts are kicking into high gear. If you’ve been waiting for the season to feel like summer, this is the weekend.

    Also in this week’s edition:

    • Fiesta at LOVE Park: Stop by one of the largest Latino arts and culture celebrations in Philadelphia.
    • Hershey’s Soccerland at Dilworth Park: Chocolate, soccer, and family activities at City Hall. What more can you ask for?
    • Noah Kahan at CBP: The folk-pop, singer-songwriter takes over Citizens Bank Park for “The Great Divide” tour.

    — Earl Hopkins (@earlhopkins_, Email me at thingstodo@inquirer.com)

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    FIFA World Cup 26: Curaçao vs. Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana vs. Croatia

    Jimmy Coilliot of Lille, France cheers after France took a 1-0 lead in the first half of the France vs. Iraq 2026 FIFA World Cup Group 1 soccer match at Philadelphia Stadium on Monday, June 22, 2026.

    The Curaçao national team, among the most inspiring underdogs at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, is taking on Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday at Lincoln Financial Field.

    It will be a hotly contested matchup between the two Group E teams. After a loss to Germany last week, Côte d’Ivoire is looking to bounce back in hopes of landing the No. 1 spot in their group.

    Curaçao, nicknamed The Blue Wave, is looking to secure the team’s first win not only in this year’s tournament, but in World Cup history.

    On Saturday, the fierce competitions continue. Croatia and Ghana will go head to head in what could be an upset matchup.

    More about the matches.

    The best things to do this week

    🕺🏽Shake your tambourine: Philly-born rapper, TV host, author, and actor Eve is coming home for a one-night concert at the at the Dell Music Center. The performance, part of WaWa Welcome America events, is also a celebration of Black Music Month. The event will conclude with a firework display.

    🍫 A sweet time kicking it at City Hall: Hershey’s Soccerland at Dilworth Park is a three-day pop-up where soccer, family, and chocolate collide. Visitors can enjoy fun activities, mini activations, and interactive games. Plus, they can get their hands on a limited edition Christian Pulisic Hershey milk chocolate bar.

    🧙🏽‍♂️ The Wizard is here: The Philadelphia Orchestra will bring the iconic film The Wizard of Oz to life. While the film plays on screen, the orchestra will perform the movie’s score, giving long-time fans of the film a viewing experience unlike anything they’ve had before.

    💃🏽 Kid-friendly cabaret: Kidchella, a free outdoor music event at Smith Memorial Playground, is delivering performances spanning Mexican son jarocho fusion, Brazilian percussion, Afrocentric R&B and dance, and family-style cabaret. The night will be capped off with fireworks.

    📅 My calendar picks this week: North Broad Music & Morsels, Philly Fairy Festival, Culture Fest at Liberty Point, Harrowgate Summerfest, Germantown Art & Sound

    Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta at LOVE Park

    FILE: A skateboarder “jumps the LOVE Gap” in LOVE Park November 8, 2015.

    Concilio’s Hispanic Fiesta, one of Philly’s largest celebrations of Latino arts, culture, community, and tradition is back at LOVE Park this Saturday.

    The annual festival is headlined by Latin Grammy Award-winning singer Olga Tañón, known for hits like “Es Mentiroso” and “Muchacho Malo.”

    Her performance will cap off a full day of live music, dance performances, food vendors offering authentic Hispanic cuisine, cultural exhibits, and interactive games and family-friendly activities.

    For more information, read here.

    Summer fun this week and beyond

    Noah Kahan performs during the Pre-Grammy Gala on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

    🎸 The Great Divide at CBP: Noah Kahan is up at bat at Citizens Bank Park. The pop-folk superstar, known for hits like “Stick Season,” is heading to CBP for his “The Great Divide” tour. Openers include Gigi Perez and Annabelle Dinda.

    🎉 Celebrations at the Navy Yard: Who says the Navy Yard is just all industrial boats and cargo? Head to the Navy Yard for an afternoon of live music, delicious food, local art and craft vendors, and other fun activities for visitors of all ages.

    🎡 Go back in time: The Lits Building will be the host of Revisit 1876, a six-month exhibition that showcases the stories, sights, and extravagance of the first World’s Fair in North America. The country’s first typewriter, telephone, popcorn, and seltzer will be among the items displayed at the event, which celebrates the nation’s centennial.

    🎨 Restorative justice at the Barnes: The Barnes Foundation’s new exhibition, Just Us, features original artwork crafted by artists at State Correctional Institution — Phoenix, and members of Mural Arts Philadelphia’s Rec Crew — a 24-week job readiness and life skills program for young adults. The exhibition kicks off this Friday and runs through Aug. 24.

    Staffer picks

    Here’s a list of the best concerts happening this week.

    D.C. rapper Wale performs a homecoming show Nov. 15 at the Theater at MGM National Harbor in Maryland. MUST CREDIT: Shaughn Cooper

    🎤 Thursday: Buffalo rapper Conway the Machine, fresh off his 2025 album You Can’t Kill God With Bullets, is bringing the heat to the Foundry on Thursday night.

    🎸 Friday: The Strokes, Thundercat, and Hamilton Leithauser join hands for a star-studded performance at the TD Pavilion at the Mann Center.

    🎤 Saturday: Wale, who quietly dropped one of rap’s best and most underappreciated bodies of work, is headlining at The Fillmore Philly with fellow emcee and St. Louis native Smino.

    🎺 Sunday: For a Harlem-themed jazz party at South Restaurant & Jazz Club, Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist and songwriter Allan Harris will be headlining the night on Sunday.

    ❓Pop quiz

    When did the Lit Brothers building first open?

    a) 1871

    b) 1891

    c) 1903

    d) 1769

    Ask Earl anything

    I’m starting something new for the newsletter, and I want your participation.

    Many of you have questions about each week’s listings, and others about Philly’s arts, culture, and entertainment scene.

    I have you covered. Have a question? Email me for a chance to have it answered in an upcoming newsletter.

    That’s it for this week’s edition. At the start of the summer, there’s always plenty to do. But with the FIFA World Cup in full swing, and other events centered on the semiquincentennial celebration, there’s far more to explore than usual. Make sure to work these into your weekend plans.

    – Earl Hopkins

    Courtesy of Giphy.com
  • What is the Camden bop, the region’s latest viral dance that has earned over a million fans across the world?

    What is the Camden bop, the region’s latest viral dance that has earned over a million fans across the world?

    Last week, just outside the Camden Waterfront walkway, stood a group of five men, ages 18 to 25. They were all decked out in embroidered hoodies with the words “Camden Bop” stitched on the front.

    They were quiet at first before the sight of a camera and sound of an up-tempo beat grabbed their attention. They smiled and their motionless bodies kicked into action.

    They shifted their hips from side to side, while their arms and heels bounced to the song’s drum kicks and chopped vocal sample. They added leg extensions and shifty pivots into the mix, creating a synchronized dance that flowed like water.

    The words stitched across their hoodies took on new meaning.

    This is the Camden bop. Viral TikTok videos and Instagram clips of the group, known as the Camden Bop Originators, have turned the move into a social media sensation.

    Ethan Tarte, pictured at the center of the image, is the man behind the now-viral dance, the “Camden bop.”

    The crew comprises Camden natives Ethan Tarte, Myles Thompson, Nafi Muhammad, Rodney Barge Jr., and Haleem Muhammad.

    At 16, Tarte unintentionally created the Camden bop by trying to imagine what it would be like to circle the rink at Camden’s Millennium Skate World. Before he had skates, he practiced his moves barefoot in front of his mirror.

    What emerged became the foundation of the Camden bop.

    The influence of Jersey Club dances is present in the heel-toe slides, leg extensions, and quick pivots they add to the Camden bop over up-tempo club remixes of popular rap and R&B songs like Ryan Leslie’s “Addiction” and R. Kelly’s “Freaky in the Club.”

    “We grew up Jersey Club dancing … back when dancing was allowed,” Tarte, now 25, joked, “so it definitely comes from that.”

    ‘We’re more than what everybody thinks we are’

    When the dance didn’t yet have a name, Tarte flirted with the idea of calling it the E Boogie Bop, after a nickname he had earned for his quick moves on the basketball court at Camden High School. But he opted for the name of his hometown, hoping the dance would change people’s perception of a city that was once among the nation’s poorest and most dangerous.

    “I hear how people talk about Camden, and people are genuinely afraid sometimes to come through here,” Tarte said. “I was excited it was the Camden bop, so that everyone knew that there was something good that came out of Camden. We’re more than what everybody thinks we are.”

    Not long after, Tarte started posting Snapchat videos of him doing the dance with his friends Thompson, Barge, and Nafi Muhammad. Haleem Muhammad, 18, joined later. Some of their peers called them corny at first, but the bop eventually caught on with others at Camden High.

    “It really started from us having fun, and wanting to be us,” Tarte said. “People used to make fun of us, but it really comes from the love [of dancing].”

    The same people who called the dance corny are now tripping over their feet to learn it, said Tyray Green, who graduated from Camden High with Tarte.

    “People are insecure with themselves,” he said. “The whole time, they could have minded their business.”

    “I feel like they’re doing it worldwide now,” Green said.

    A fan in 2Rare

    The dance shared among high schoolers has now drawn the attention of artists, athletes, and content creators from around the country.

    Among them is North Philly rapper 2Rare, best known for his viral TikTok songs and dance videos, who featured the Originators in the video for his single, “Camden Bop,” after seeing the group’s TikTok videos.

    2Rare, born Naseem Young, reached out to the Originators so he could put a face and name to the dance that was taking over people’s social media feeds.

    “I know how quickly people can steal a wave, and nobody will ever know who the dance was from, who started this or started that,” he said. “I’ve had it happen to me. People have stolen my dances and ran off with it, so reaching out to them was a big deal.”

    He first considered shooting the video in Philly, but thanks to advice from Gillie Da King, he recognized the significance of bringing the production to the birthplace of the dance.

    “I had to make it happen,” 2Rare said. “I want to really shed light on them, and Gillie said, ‘They will never forget about you for doing something like that,’ and he was absolutely right.”

    For Green, the recognition proves what he’s always known: Camden has more than just athletic talent. For him, it’s a city with both grit and style, deserving of its own recognition.

    “We get overlooked a lot,” he said. “To see [2Rare] who has eyes on him, stick their arms out to give our city notoriety is big.”

    ‘There’s love all over the map’

    In April, the dancers joined 2Rare outside of Camden High School to film the music video, now sitting at 2.8 million YouTube views since its May 7 premiere.

    “It’s humbling,” Tarte said. “This all happened for a reason. It all fell into our lap.”

    Earlier this month, their performance on a New York-based music radio show, On The Radar, with 2Rare shined a brighter light on the movement. The viral clips from that performance have reached more than 3 millions views on Instagram, with hundreds of commenters lauding their performance and the homage to their hometown.

    “Keep [putting] on for the city @camdenboppers 🙌🏾🕺🏾,” one user commented.

    Even Chance the Rapper followed the group’s Instagram page, and top streamer Tylil dropped a comment, giving 2Rare and the crew props for their performance.

    Nafi Muhammad, 23, who started bopping as a junior at Camden High, said the reactions have been “overwhelming.”

    “My nephew watched it on his tablet like a thousand times,” he said. “It’s been a lot of love.”

    For years, Muhammad wondered where the group would be if they dedicated more time to promoting the dance back in high school. Now, with the millions of viewers they have reached, little is left to the imagination.

    They are living it.

    “If TikTok was jumping like it is now back in high school, we would have the dance in another stratosphere,” Muhammad said. “But we kept saying it, and then it happened.”

    The “Camden bop,” originated by dancer Ethan Tarte, has become a viral sensation. Tarte’s group, the Camden Bop Originators, includes members Myles Thompson, Rodney Barge Jr., Haleem Muhammad, and Nafi Muhammad.

    “There’s love all over the map, and it’s definitely only the beginning,” Tarte said.

    The group has met criticism too, with online comments often ranging from “wild dance” to “horrible song.”

    The criticism isn’t new territory for Tarte. “People used to call me weird in high school, and now I hear I’m too old to do the dance,” he said.

    None of that has ever stopped him.

    The “Camden bop,” originated by South Jersey-born dancers Myles Thompson, Ethan Tarte, Rodney Barge Jr., Nafi Muhammad, and Haleem Muhammad, has become a viral sensation.

    “Camden is a small city, but we’re making big noise right now, and we’re trying to keep that going,” Barge said, adding that he’s grateful for the collaboration with 2Rare.

    The love is not one-sided. 2Rare said the collaboration has elevated his career, too.

    “They are part of the reason I’m hot right now, so I could never not acknowledge them,” the rapper said. “If it wasn’t for the dance, it would have still been difficult. I had a quiet moment, but I had to pop out and show out. That was a big jawn.”

    The rapper is already planning for a remix of “Camden Bop,” and wants to bring the Originators to Atlanta for Streamer University, a multiday workshop for growing and aspiring content creators.

    As for the Originators, they want to continue spreading the joy that dancing has afforded them, and encourage others to absorb it as well.

    That’s the Camden way.

  • My partner and I can’t agree on whether the AC should be 70 or 80 degrees

    My partner and I can’t agree on whether the AC should be 70 or 80 degrees

    This week’s question (Have your own? Submit it here.):

    Hi we decided to write this together so you have both sides fairly represented. We recently moved in together and it’s going great (young, gay, in love!), but we only have AC in the bedroom. One of us prefers the room wayyyy hotter than the other at night (80 degrees vs. 70 degrees). One of us argues that at 70 degrees, the other person can just wear sweatpants. The other one argues that at 80 degrees it’s not that hot, it saves money, and the other person can focus the fan on themselves. What do we do?

    Earl Hopkins, Arts & Entertainment Reporter

    As someone who naturally runs hot, especially during the summer months, anything above 76 degrees is an absolute no go. I never understood why some people like to bake under their covers, but our bodies all operate differently.

    I think an easy compromise is to place the AC somewhere in the middle. Maybe around 75? That seems reasonable to me.

    Stephanie Farr, Features Columnist

    First, I love that they wrote this together. It shows they communicate well and are willing to face problems openly and honestly, which is a great foundation for any relationship.

    Second, it’s often said that one of the things couples argue about most is money, but I’m of the firm belief ambient room temperature ranks pretty high up on that list, too. It’s something you may not even think about until you move in with someone and realize they are the Human Torch or Mr. Freeze.

    In my house, I am Mr. Freeze, so I’m fully siding with the partner who has the totally reasonable request to keep the AC at 70. 80 is way too hot. Heck, thanks to the Human Torch I live with I’ve discovered even 75 is too hot at night for me to sleep with a blanket on — and I need a blanket to sleep.

    What’s your opinion on putting on more clothes vs. using a fan?

    Earl Hopkins

    I think it’s way easier to add a layer of clothes than it is to have the sound of a fan buzzing in your ear all night. It’s OK when there’s a heatwave and broken AC. But beyond that, I recommend throwing on a pair of sweats, a long sleeve shirt, or a beanie.

    Also, I’m no electrician or HVAC specialist, but are you really saving that much money? I don’t know. Stephanie, how do you feel about cuddling as an alternative to 80-degree temps? I think there’s a cheat code there.

    Stephanie Farr

    Oh I love the cuddling idea! It promotes intimacy and is a good argument against keeping it warm in the room. Nobody wants to cuddle someone when they’re all hot and sweaty.

    And I’m with you on more clothes vs. fan. You can always put more clothes on when you’re cold or pile up the blankets (and cuddle!), but when it’s getting so hot in there you’ve already taken off all your clothes and you’re still sweating, what then? Are you supposed to sleep with ice packs because a fan alone will not cut it?

    Do you think that only having one room with AC — aside from the whole house — should factor into the decision?

    Earl Hopkins

    I think so! If there’s only one room your partner can truly get cozy in, give them free rein. It’s like giving your loved one the last slice of pizza or chocolate cake. Of course you want it, but it’s a lovely gesture that doesn’t require much sacrifice. A little chill at night won’t hurt!

    Stephanie Farr

    Agreed! The AC room should be considered a human refrigerator in this home — an arctic oasis where the one who’s Mr. Freeze can escape and find solace. The Human Torch partner already has all the other rooms nice and toasty, so they can go to sleep in one of them if they don’t like the cold.

    I wonder if the partner who wants it 80 degrees at night may not be from the U.S. In that case, this makes a bit more sense. We’re very spoiled here. I remember a great column last year by Adrian Schulz, a journalist from Berlin who did a fellowship with us at The Inquirer last summer. He expressed shock, confusion, and mild horror at our AC habits here, writing: “Am I in a restaurant or in the Siberian Tundra? Am I at an airport gate or in a cryogenic chamber? Am I on the Broad Street Line or the Polar Express?” Meanwhile, when I went to Germany in September 2024, I was shocked, confused, and mildly horrified by the lack of AC everywhere amid sweltering heat.

    It’s what you’re used to, I guess, but living with a partner means getting used to new things. I think Earl has the best idea — a compromise at 75 — to start out (then slowly inch the temp down from there by dangling the possibility of more cuddles).

    Earl Hopkins

    More hugs and cuddles is good for the soul.

  • Painted Bride’s new executive director is an arts leader who, many years ago, interned at the arts organization

    Painted Bride’s new executive director is an arts leader who, many years ago, interned at the arts organization

    Nearly a year after longtime executive director Laurel Raczka announced she was stepping down from her post at Painted Bride Art Center, the arts organization has found a new leader.

    Risë Wilson is the organizations’s new executive director, succeeding Raczka, who led the Bride for 26 years.

    Th exterior of Painted Bride Art Center Project Space, 4029 Cambridge St., Philadelphia, Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    With this appointment, Wilson, a Germantown native, will be returning to her hometown and the organization that kick-started her arts career nearly 30 years ago.

    Wilson interned at the Bride under Raczka and former leader Gerry Givnish, who transformed the former cooperative gallery into an alternative performance space.

    “That experience changed my life,” Wilson said in a statement, responding to questions from The Inquirer, “setting me on a course to develop my own socially-engaged artistic practice while championing fellow artists committed to community-based work.”

    Executive director Laurel Raczka and Painted Bride board chair John Barber at the Painted Bride Art Center Project Space, 4029 Cambridge St., Philadelphia, Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025.

    For the past two decades, Wilson has engaged with that work in Brooklyn, spearheading organizations such as the Laundromat Project, using art as a tool for community building and engagement.

    Wilson’s career has spanned public engagement, artist development, strategic planning, and philanthropic practice. Her previous roles include being the inaugural director of philanthropy at the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation. She has also worked with the Ford Foundation, Parsons: The New School for Design, MoMA, and the International Center for Photography.

    The community organizer and activist holds a bachelor of arts degree from Columbia University, where she was a Kluge Scholar, and a master of arts degree from New York University, where she was a MacCracken Fellow.

    The former Painted Bride with the iconic mosaic by Isaiah Zagar. Photo taken on Oct. 18, 2023.

    After years at 52nd and Market Streets, the Painted Bride recently moved to a 3,200-square-foot performance space in East Parkside. In her statement, Wilson said she’s stepping in at a time when “we all need to protect and exercise our imaginations.”

    The Bride’s storied commitment to supporting artists and “culture-bearers” is one of many reasons the role resonated so strongly with her.

    “I feel privileged to work for a cultural institution long committed to cultivating the conditions for artists to thrive, for dialogues to deepen, and for each of us to be the authors of our own story,” Wilson said in her statement.

    As she transitions into her new role, Wilson is planning more artist-centered programming and “public-facing cultural dialogue,” which includes added workshops, public discussions, and collaborative projects.

    She’s also working on strengthening collaboration between artists, neighborhood organizations, and the city’s cultural partners. These efforts, Wilson wrote, will firmly establish the Bride’s role as a “civic cultural space.”

    Raczka said she’s confident the organization will continue to be a place for artist development and community engagement under Wilson.

    “I’m excited to see [Wilson] bring her leadership and vision to this next chapter,” Raczka said. “Her work has long centered artists as essential contributors to civic life, and I believe the Bride will continue to grow as a vital cultural space under her stewardship.”

  • 🐾 Pet Expo, F1 opener, and new East Market eatery | Things to do

    🐾 Pet Expo, F1 opener, and new East Market eatery | Things to do

    The forecast may show signs of showers this weekend, but don’t let the skies rain down on your weekend parade.

    This week, there will be a treasure trove of events to kick off Women’s History Month. That includes the opening of a reimagined Shakespearean classic, a watch party for F1 fanatics, a competition for the pun-obsessed, and an expo for pet lovers across the region.

    Read below to make your weekend plans purrfect.

    — Earl Hopkins (@earlhopkins_, Email me at thingstodo@inquirer.com)

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Philadelphia Ballet dancer Mayara Pineiro in Angel Corella’s “Carmen.”

    Philadelphia Ballet’s 2026-27 season brings the fireworks for America’s 250th birthday

    As the nation prepares to celebrate its Semiquincentennial, my colleague Ellen Dunkel writes that the Philadelphia Ballet will be bringing the fireworks in its 2026-27 season opener.

    For the upcoming season, the company is leaning into American classics and other favorites, while also establishing a home for itself on North Broad Street.

    The season opens Oct. 8 with a celebratory, all-Americana program called, “Stars and Stripes Forever.” The following programs will feature Christopher Wheeldon’s DGV: Danse à Grande Vitesse, Wayne McGregor’s Chroma, and Twyla Tharp’s In the Upper Room.

    Read more about their upcoming season here.

    The best things to do this week

    🐕 Animal lovers, rejoice: The Greater Philadelphia Expo will be filled with pets in all shapes and sizes. This year’s Greater Philadelphia Pet Expo will feature pet product and service vendors, animal training demos, pet agility courses, dog acrobats, and more family-friendly attractions.

    🏎️ F1 season opener celebration: For the 2026 Australian Grand Prix opener, Center City’s F1 Arcade is kicking off the start of racing season with a late-night watch party, complete with small bites, live DJs, and prizes for F1 fanatics.

    🎭 Is something, punny?: Stop by Helium Comedy Club this Saturday for some afternoon pun. The region’s best punners will go head-to-head on stage at Philly’s first and only pun comedy competition.

    📅 My calendar picks this week: Passyunk Restaurant Week, the Philadelphia Flower Show, and First Friday at Cherry St. Pier.

    A platter of taco dorados, huevos rellenos, croquetas, naranjas enchiladas, empanadas de mariscos, and chicarrones at Mi Vida in Philadelphia, Pa., on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026.

    The thing of the week: East Market gets a splashy Mexican restaurant from D.C.

    Inquirer restaurant reporter Michael Klein writes about the opening of Mi Vida, a new Mexican restaurant located at East Market.

    The original Washington D.C.-based eatery comes from restaurateur Jason Berry, who runs Knead Hospitality & Design, with his husband, Michael Reginbogin.

    In 2022, Berry came up to Philadelphia for a Wharton reunion. He was approached by a real estate broker, who mentioned an available space at the $400 million East Market project.

    Four years later, Berry and Reginbogin have opened Mi Vida, a “splashy Mexican restaurant with moody lighting and rich pops of color,” Klein writes.

    Read more about the new restaurant opening here.

    Winter fun this week and beyond

    👭🏽 All things women’s history: For the next few weeks, there will be Women’s History Month celebrations taking place across the region. The Museum of the American Revolution has also revealed an exhibition that honors revolutionary women. There’s also a monthlong program series at Eastern State Penitentiary, and an additional slate of programs at the National Constitution Center for those looking to dig deeper into the history of women change makers.

    🖊️ Remembering Elie Wiesel: Eliezer “Elie” Wiesel was born in Romania and then came to the US where he became a writer, professor, and political activist. In 1986, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. A documentary honoring the Holocaust survivor’s life, Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire, plays on March 9, 7 p.m. at Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church.

    💫 Walk among the stars: An outdoor celestial light show, featuring lights, projections, sound effects, and music, will guide visitors through an illuminated forest at Astra Lumina Philadelphia as part of the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series.

    🎭 What would you do for love?: Award-winning director Amina Robinson reimagines the classic Shakespearean classic, Romeo and Juliet. The production will play at Arden Theatre Company through April 5.

    🇺🇸 The forgotten freedom: The new exhibit, “The Forgotten Freedom: American Assembly at 250,” explores the freedom of assembly’s history, artistic expression, and future at the National Liberty Museum. The exhibit, officially opening on Friday, will feature artifacts of the nation’s founding to iconic moments like Woodstock and Live Aid. For a sneak peak, here are tickets to the VIP preview party happening on Thursday.

    Staffer picks

    Pop music critic Dan DeLuca lists the top concerts this weekend.

    🎸 Thursday: Top-notch shoegaze-slash punk rock will be served at Nikki Lopez on this double bill. The Brooklyn band Mx Lonely, fronted by singer Rae Haas, will headline the show with Philly punk quartet Wax Jaw as the opening act.

    🎤 Friday: Robert Glasper, the pianist, producer, and bandleader, has music that spans R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and beyond. The five-time Grammy winner will bring his musical magic to Union Transfer Friday night.

    🎸 Saturday: The four-time Grammy winning Mexican pop-rock band MANÁ cranks up the volume in Philly on their Vivir Sin Aire tour stop at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

    🎤 Sunday: Cat Power, the remarkable song interpreter Chan Marshall, will lead a six-piece band featuring Philly guitarist and former Delta 72 leader Gregg Foreman, at Union Transfer for her “The Greatest Tour” stop.

    There’s a mixed bag of pet-friendly, pun-filled, and racing die-hards this weekend. Don’t miss out before the weekend-finish.

    — Earl Hopkins

    Cats
  • Aubrey Plaza’s latest directorial venture is an animated series about a cat named Kevin

    Aubrey Plaza’s latest directorial venture is an animated series about a cat named Kevin

    Delaware native Aubrey Plaza’s new adult animated series, Kevin, is set to premiere on April 20.

    The Prime Video comedy, written and executive produced by Plaza, was co-created by the Parks and Recreation actress and Joe Wengert, who also serves as showrunner. All eight episodes will drop together in more than 240 countries and territories.

    The streamer also revealed the show’s title sequence, which features the original song, “I’m Coming Home,” performed by actor Jason Schwartzman who plays a lead role in the series. Schwartzman co-wrote the song with series composer Dan Romer.

    The Prime Video animated comedy “Kevin,” co-created, executive produced, and starring Aubrey Plaza, is set to premiere on April 20.

    The show follows a cat named Kevin who leaves his humans after their unexpected breakup, and moves into a pet rescue in Astoria, Queens. He joins a “chaotic band of misfit animals,” who help him figure out what he “truly wants out of life,” according to the series logline.

    Schwartzman voices Kevin and Plaza voices Dana, one half of the broken-up couple Kevin leaves behind.

    The stacked cast includes Whoopi Goldberg as Cupcake, John Waters as Armando, and comedian Aparna Nancherla as Judy. They each play Kevin’s new cat roommates at the local pet rescue, which is run by Seth (Gil Ozeri) and his dog Brandi (Amy Sedaris).

    The Prime Video animated comedy “Kevin,” co-created, executive produced, and starring Aubrey Plaza, is set to premiere on April 20.

    Plaza, a Wilmington native, who started out performing improv and sketch comedy at New York’s Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, first rose to stardom playing the deadpan but hilarious April Ludgate in Parks and Recreation.

    This image released by Lionsgate shows Aubrey Plaza in a scene from “Megalopolis.” (Lionsgate via AP)

    Plaza has previously produced (and starred in) The Little Hours, the 2020 Black Bear, and the 2022 crime film, Emily the Criminal. She made her directorial debut in the 2021 series Cinema Toast, directing and writing the episode, “Quiet Illness.”

  • How to have a Perfect Philly Day, according to Philly rapper Kur

    How to have a Perfect Philly Day, according to Philly rapper Kur

    Philly rapper Kur turns pain into poetry.

    Since his 2012 mixtape, Straight From The Kur, the Mount Airy native has transformed his past experiences into emotionally raw music that has drawn an impassioned fan base.

    Over the years, his fiery lyrics and hard-nosed delivery have become sharper, and his fan base and influence have grown. After striking hot with street anthems like “Peach Snapple” and an acclaimed release with 2024’s THURL, Kur has become a national mainstay.

    The 31-year-old rapper, born Chauncey Ellison, continues the momentum with his new album ARD, released in late February.

    Kur said the project, which stands for both the Art of Release and Discipline and a shortened version of alright, marks a return to form.

    After 2025’s “Skip Da 8,” North Phjilly rapper Kur releases his newest album, “ARD.”

    “I was super transparent and vulnerable when I first came out. I think as the years went on, I started to put a filter on and shut [fans] out from certain things,” he said. “I think that was a contradiction because people were actually supporting me because I was transparent. I tried to get back to it as much as I could on ARD.”

    He’s peeling back the layers, letting fans in on his own personal struggles, in hopes that the two parties find a path of self-reclamation and healing.

    “When you dig a little deeper, everybody has built up trauma that they’re not releasing. And I think that people don’t hear, ‘Yo, you will be alright or you will be OK.’ Somebody may not have anybody to tell them that they will be OK. I think just to see it may change their perspective. I’m coming from a healing point.”

    We asked him about his perfect day in Philly. Here’s how he’d spend it.

    10 a.m.

    It’s different in the summer than the winter. If it’s summertime, I’m waking up and going to Kelly Drive, then stopping by Rita’s for a mango water ice. Or, I’m going to get a Philly Pretzel Factory.

    Noon

    I had to fall back on cheesesteaks, so I’m going to go to Bistro SouthEast on South Street. It’s not a heavy Philly staple, but that’s my kind of day in Philly.

    2 p.m.

    Look at clothes at Status and Creme on Second and Race Street. Or go to King of Prussia Mall. There’s also a place called Bullseye on 15th and Walnut Street. They have some good stuff in there. And there’s Common Ground [in Midtown Village] and [Center City’s] Lapstone & Hammer.

    6 p.m.

    I go to a smoothie truck in Fishtown and then I usually go to the studio. I’m telling you what I do, so I don’t want to make nothing up. I can’t lie.

    3 a.m.

    I leave the studio at 2 or 3 a.m. I go to Healthy Picks in Center City because it’s 24 hours. It’s the only place in Philly where you can get fresh fruit at 3 a.m. That changed my whole jawn. Nothing against Wawa, but when you go there and you get fruit, it isn’t really how you want it. To have a jawn where they chop it up and it’s fresh and super icy.