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Entertainment news and reviews

  • Point Breeze’s Keith Haring mural could be added to the city’s Register of Historic Places

    Point Breeze’s Keith Haring mural could be added to the city’s Register of Historic Places

    Keith Haring’s We the Youth is already a Philadelphia landmark, but what if the city made that designation official?

    The Point Breeze mural, the only collaborative Haring mural that still hangs in its original location, is being proposed to be added to Philadelphia’s Register of Historic Places, which would make it an officially designated and protected landmark.

    Haring was born in Reading, raised in Kutztown, and died in New York City in 1990, at age 31, from AIDS-related complications.

    “Keith Haring was an extremely important artist who tragically died fairly young,” Alexander Till, a historic preservation planner at the City of Philadelphia, said to WHYY in a statement. “This nomination gives us an opportunity to preserve this piece of his work and his legacy in Philadelphia.”

    Keith Haring, who died in 1990, with his painted carousel. MUST CREDIT: Sabina Sarnitz/Luna Luna/Keith Haring Foundation/Artestar

    We the Youth, according to Till, who made the nomination, fits Criteria A and E for designation, stating that it “has significant character, interest or value as part of the development, heritage or cultural characteristics of the city … or is associated with the life of a person significant in the past.” Plus, it “is the work of a designer … whose work has significantly influenced the historical, architectural, economic, social, or cultural development of the city.”

    The South Philly mural has stood at the corner of 22nd and Ellsworth Streets for nearly four decades. It was painted in 1987 to commemorate the U.S. bicentennial, and intentionally placed in a less-mainstream neighborhood.

    Defined by its colorful dancing characters, We the Youth was painted in collaboration with a group of Philadelphia students, through a partnership with the nonprofits CityKids NYC and Brandywine Workshop.

    “Philly is very proud to have a Keith Haring mural and especially one embedded in the community that was done in such a collaborative manner,” Jane Golden, founder and executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, said last month. “We get nothing but positive response and excitement when people learn there is a Haring mural in our city.”

    In 2013, Golden and her Mural Arts team undertook a massive restoration of the Haring mural.

    “As the local caretaker of the Haring mural, we are committed to helping ensure this mural stays at its original location for generations to come,” she said.

    “We the Youth” is a Keith Haring mural painted in 1987 on the exterior of a rowhouse at 22nd and Ellsworth Streets.

    Murals, especially outdoor ones, are notoriously difficult to get put on the city’s Historic Places Register. They can only be nominated as an “object,” defined under city preservation laws as “a material thing of functional, aesthetic, cultural, historic, or scientific value that may be, by nature or design, movable but yet related to a specific setting or environment.”

    Out of 21 objects designated since 1971, only four were murals or mural collections: The Dream Garden inside the Curtis Center, the New Deal-era murals inside the Family Court building, Angelic Exaltation of St. Joseph into Heaven inside Old City’s Old St. Joseph’s Church, and Iron Plantation Near Southwark inside the Southwark Station Post Office in South Philly.

    If approved, We the Youth would be the first designated mural in over four years, and the first outdoor one in the city’s history.

    Some preservationists have reservations with such a designation.

    “The nomination raises broader policy questions about how to evaluate murals under the city’s historic preservation rules,” Paul Steinke, executive director of the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia, said in a statement. “Murals are often created as public art on blank walls. Getting designated can have lasting effects on property, new construction, and neighborhood revitalization.”

    The owner of a historic property in Philadelphia is obligated to keep the property in good repair and obtain approval from the Historical Commission before making any changes to the site, according to the city’s website.

    The mural stands at 2147 Ellsworth St., on the facade of a three-bedroom rowhouse that is available for rent, per an OCF Realty listing. A potential historic designation will not affect the larger property and will be restricted to the mural and the wall it is painted on.

    The building’s owner, listed as “2147 Ellsworth LLC” in city records, will be required to maintain the structural integrity of the wall and commit to set obligations, with Mural Arts making any necessary restorations to the mural itself.

    The owner would not be allowed to remove or alter the appearance of the mural without the Historic Commission’s review, “just as the owners of historic properties are not allowed to perform exterior alterations to their properties without review,” a representative from the commission said.

    OCF Realty did not immediately respond to further queries around the building’s ownership.

    “We believe it is essential for the Historical Commission to consider both the importance of this specific work and the precedent it may set for future mural nominations,” Steinke said.

    The Philadelphia Historical Commission’s Committee on Historic Designation will discuss Till’s proposal at its July 22 meeting. The nomination would have to be approved by the entire commission for We the Youth to be added to the register.

  • Will Smith was ready to go home on July 4 night. Then he got a call from ‘Mrs. Mayor.’

    Will Smith was ready to go home on July 4 night. Then he got a call from ‘Mrs. Mayor.’

    Will Smith was ready to go home.

    On Saturday night, a violent storm seemed to spell the end of Philadelphia’s music and fireworks celebration of America’s 250th birthday on the Ben Franklin Parkway. The West Philly rapper and actor was back at his hotel, with his scheduled reunion with his musical partner DJ Jazzy Jeff seemingly called off.

    Then he got a phone call from “Mrs. Mayor.”

    “The mayor called and asked would we go on at midnight,” Smith said in a video posted on his Instagram account on Monday, referring to Cherelle L. Parker, whom he referred to as “Mrs. Mayor” on stage when he finally got to perform at the One Philly: Unity Concert for America.

    Of course he would go on at midnight, backed by The Roots, in a special occasion hometown show. It didn’t matter that the weather wound up delaying it from July 4 to the wee hours of July 5.

    “This is me,” he said, making a face, as if that would even be a question. “This is me!”

    Smith’s Instagram recap of his Independence Day weekend adventures included a clip from his show-closing set — which actually began after 2 a.m. — featuring a shot of the mayor rapping along to the line in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air theme song about being “West Philadelphia, born and raised.”

    During the show, which turned out to be the climactic set of the night since scheduled headliner Christina Aguilera did not perform, Smith got specific about his origins. He also spoke of the history he shares with his musical partner, whose given name is Jeffrey Townes, and Roots drummer Ahmir “Questlove’ Thompson.

    The Roots, Will Smith, and Meek Mill carried Philly’s Independence Day concert into July 5

    “Fifty-ninth and Woodcrest,” he said, while parading around the stage in a red Phillies cap and jersey. “I was born and raised at 59th and Woodcrest. DJ Jazzy Jeff, 57th and Rodman. Quest, 52nd and Osage.

    “And only a couple thousand yards from here, the dream of this country was born. From the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, we sent our message out to the entire world.”

    Along with a closing performance of “Summertime,” the 1991 DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince hit and Philly seasonal anthem, the show also included a display of Townes demonstrating his unparalleled turntable skills.

    While Townes dazzled, Smith played air DJ, and Questlove sat on his drum throne capturing the moment on his phone, seemingly in awe. Watch that clip below.

    On Instagram, Smith also posted a photo from rehearsals with The Roots, with Townes wearing a “Respect the Architects” T-shirt.

    And the rapper and star of Ali also shared a clip of his visit to the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the newly installed statue of Philly heavy weight champion boxer Joe Frazier.

    “Philly LEGEND ‘Smokin’ Joe Frazier right HERE!” he posted. “You kids have no CLUE about that left hook.”

  • Phillies fans will see a familiar face on TV covering the MLB draft

    Phillies fans will see a familiar face on TV covering the MLB draft

    If the Phillies end up taking a pitcher with the No. 36 pick in the upcoming draft, the MLB network will have the perfect analyst on hand to break it down.

    Cole Hamels, the 2008 World Series MVP and current NBC Sports Philadelphia broadcaster, is joining MLB Network’s live coverage of the 2026 MLB draft, which kicks off Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

    Longtime MLB Network coordinating producer Chris Roenbeck, who is working his fourth draft, said they’re always looking to add a “special wrinkle” to their coverage. With this year’s draft taking place in Philadelphia, the stars aligned to add Hamels to their broadcast.

    “When we started brainstorming months ago, we quickly thought of Cole, given his decorated career with the Phillies and being a first-round pick,” Roenbeck said. “We’ll go to him early and often for pitching insights, relying on his unique perspective, which will only enhance our broadcast.”

    Hamels is the only new addition to MLB’s Network’s draft coverage, which will be hosted by Greg Amsinger and feature analysis by Mark DeRosa, Harold Reynolds, and former Colorado Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd.

    “We’re beyond excited to have Cole part of our draft team,” Amsinger said, noting Hamels’ “draft experience and pitching expertise will take our show to the next level.”

    Hamels is in his second season as a part-time Phillies announcer on NBC Sports Philadelphia, where he’s called four games so far this year. He’s expected to broadcast six to eight games, taking over a portion of the schedule given up this year by Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt, but the network would love to have more.

    “Certainly, we would love to have him every weekend,” Alexandra Matcham, the vice president of content for NBC Sports Philadelphia, told The Inquirer in March.

    Hamels won’t be the only Philly addition. The opening of MLB Network’s draft coverage will be voiced by Black Thought (aka Tariq Trotter), lead MC of the Philly hip hop group The Roots.

    NBC will broadcast the first 10 picks of the MLB draft

    The 2026 MLB draft will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Center City.

    Hamels and company will be on hand to discuss the Phillies’ No. 32 pick, but MLB Network won’t air the first 10 picks of the draft

    Why? Because NBC will be broadcasting the first hour and a half of this year’s MLB draft as part of their three-year TV rights deal with MLB, taking over for ESPN.

    As a result, the MLB draft will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday on NBC before coverage shifts to MLB Network at 2:30 p.m., picking things up with the No. 11 pick.

    NBC will carry MLB Network’s production, so you won’t see Mike Tirico and crew this weekend.

    The entire draft will stream on Peacock, which will simulcast MLB Network’s coverage after NBC cuts away to cover the American Century Championship, often described as the Super Bowl of celebrity golf tournaments.

    The draft streaming on Peacock is good news for YouTube TV subscribers, where MLB Network has remained dark for three years due to a contract dispute. The network is also available to stream as part of MLB+, beginning at $5.99 per month.

    The MLB Network has broadcast the draft since 2009. ESPN was the first network to broadcast the draft, which aired the first round live on ESPN2 in 2007.

    Quick hits

    Malik Tillman reacts after the U.S. was eliminated from the World Cup by Belgium Monday.
    • “This doesn’t have to be the last soccer you watch for the next four years.” That was John Strong, Fox’s lead World Cup announcer, pleading with American fans after the U.S. was eliminated from the World Cup by Belgium Monday.
    • Credit to Delran native and two-time World Cup champ Carli Lloyd, who wasn’t afraid to criticize U.S. star Christian Pulisic after the United States’ disappointing loss.
    • On a brighter note for American football fans, the NFL preseason is less than a month away. The annual Pro Football Hall of Fame game, featuring the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers, kicks off Aug. 6. The Eagles’ first preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens is one week later on Aug. 15.
    • Scott Franzke and the rest of the Phillies radio announcers are getting a second life on social media thanks to Nick Piccone, a lifelong fan in Delco who matches audio clips to the TV broadcast.
  • ‘Star Wars: The Experience’ will debut at the Franklin Institute for the saga’s 50th anniversary

    ‘Star Wars: The Experience’ will debut at the Franklin Institute for the saga’s 50th anniversary

    If you like persnickety droids, precocious aliens, and scruffy-looking nerf herders, the Franklin Institute will be where it’s AT-AT next year when a new exhibit, “Star Wars: The Experience — A Journey Through the Galaxy,” premieres in February.

    The interactive exhibit is part of the 50th anniversary celebration marking the 1977 debut of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, the first film released in the sci-fi franchise.

    Billed as the “largest and most comprehensive behind-the-scenes exhibition celebrating the Star Wars galaxy,” the 18,000-square-foot experience will feature more than 70 props from Lucasfilm’s archives, including Darth Vader’s costume, Darth Maul’s light-saber, and a speeder bike, according to a news release from the Franklin Institute.

    The droids you are looking for, like R2-D2 and C-3PO, will be on display, along with beloved characters like Grogu (this is the way).

    R2-D2 and C-3PO at world premiere of “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” in 2019 in Los Angeles.

    The experience was created over more than four years by the Franklin, Lucasfilm, Disney Consumer Products, and Orlando-based experiential design firm MDSX.

    Specifics about the exhibition are scant, but it will include “large immersive moments” and RFID (radio frequency identification) technology that will allow for a personalized and interactive experience, the release said. Displays will delve into sound design, costume creation, fandom, gaming, and other aspects of the Star Wars universe.

    More details and renderings of the exhibit will be released during a July 24 panel at San Diego Comic-Con called “The Making of Star Wars: The Experience.” The panel will feature representatives from the Franklin, Lucasfilm, and MDSX and will be moderated by Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano in several animated series including Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

    “Star Wars: The Experience” will run at the Franklin from Feb. 13 to Sept. 6, 2027, and will be in place for May 4, the unofficial Star Wars holiday. (May the Fourth be with you.)

    Star Wars fans gather in costume for Star Wars Day at the Franklin Institute in 2015.

    After its Philly run, the exhibit will go on a five-year tour around North America.

    “Star Wars created a cultural landscape that spans decades and delivers massive, undeniable global appeal,” said Larry Dubinski, president and CEO of the Franklin Institute, in a statement. “Its influence extends far beyond cinema — shaping entertainment, culture, technology, and business, while redefining how stories are created, experienced, and shared across generations.”

    This is the second exhibit about the galaxy far, far, away that the Franklin has staged. Consider it Star Wars: The Franklin Strikes Back.

    In 2008, the museum hosted “Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination,” which featured props, costumes, and a five-minute ride in a simulator of the Millennium Falcon’s cockpit. That touring exhibit was a collaboration between the Boston Museum of Science and Lucasfilm.

    Two young padawans greet Boba Fett at the exhibit, “Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination,” in 2008 at the Franklin Institute.

    The new experience, the Franklin says, will differ from the previous one in many ways.

    “This exhibition is much larger in scale, more ambitious in scope, and powered by technologies that allow every guest to experience a custom story,” said Abby Bysshe, chief experience and strategy officer, in a statement

    A lot has happened with the Star Wars franchise in the 18 years since the first exhibit was held at the Franklin. Luscasfilm was purchased by the Disney Company in 2012, there have been six new Star Wars movies, and more than a dozen new Star Wars shows.

    When the last exhibit opened, Grogu wasn’t even a twinkle in Din Djarin’s eye and nobody had ever heard the name Cassian Andor.

    Now, they have friends everywhere.

    Tickets for “Star Wars: The Experience — A Journey Through the Galaxy” will go on sale in November.

  • The best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend

    The best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend

    Happy Friday! Below are some of our favorite things to do in the Philadelphia area this weekend. We put out new Philly weekend plans for you every week, so you’ll always have something to do on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

    You can always find our favorite activities of the weekend at inquirer.com/things-to-do. Have an event you’d like to feature in the Inquirer? Submit an event to our calendar.

    Blobfest

    (Community) This three day festival dedicated to the iconic film The Blob is like nothing you’ve experienced before. Head to Phoenixville to experience movie scene recreations, stage shows, competitions and more. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed to impress. Tickets are required, so grab yours in advance.

    ⌚️ July 10-12, 📍227 Bridge St., Phoenixville, Pa, 19460, 🌐 thecolonialtheatre.com 💵 $15-45

    Blueberry Festival

    (Community) Blueberry season is officially in full swing. Celebrate one of summer’s favorite fruits with berry picking, magic shows, a pie eating contest, delicious treats and so much more. Tickets are not required to attend the festival but are required for berry picking.

    ⌚️July 11, 8a.m. – 6p.m., 📍 137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, Pa, 19063, 🌐 www.linvilla.com, 💵 $11

    Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

    (Community) The Ben Franklin Bridge has connected millions of people across the Delaware River for a century. Join in the celebration of the impact of this iconic bridge with live music, food trucks, performances, carnival rides and so much more. This event is perfect for the entire family to enjoy.

    ⌚️July 11, 10a.m. – 2p.m., 📍 Benjamin Franklin Bridge Plaza, Camden, NJ 08102, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 Free

    Free People Summer Social

    (Community) Grab a friend or two and head to this celebration of all things summer, hosted by Free People. Guests will get to enjoy tasty food trucks, lawn games, live a movie screening, free goodies and more. Children 15 and under get free admission.

    ⌚️July 11, 5-9p.m., 📍1 Crescent Dr., Philadelphia, Pa, 19112, 🌐 freepeoplesummersocial.splashthat.com/, : $5

    IRIS Music Festival

    (Music) This festival features some of Philadelphia’s best woman and femme-identifying artists, artisans and vendors. Enjoy live music performances, delicious food served up from local food trucks, shop local vendors and more. Performances include Poster Girl, DJ Queen Yaszy, BLCKCHLD and more.

    ⌚️July 12, 12:30-8p.m., 📍500 N. 10th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19123, 🌐 events.ticketleap.com/, 💵 $31.60

    The Sound of America

    (Theater) Have you ever imagined a world where Ben Franklin became the nation’s first rock star? Jump into a world where that very thing is true in this rock musical rooted in American history. Each ticket includes a 45-minute walking tour led by Ben Franklin himself.

    ⌚️July 1- Aug. 1, 📍140 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 soundofamericamusical.com/, 💵 $76

    Philadelphia African Restaurant Week

    (Community) Celebrate the best of Philadelphia African, African American and Caribbean food scene. Enjoy amazing restaurants, discounted menus at participating businesses, prizes for sharing your bites and so much more.

    ⌚️July 2-12, 📍Various locations, 🌐 africanrestaurantweek.com/, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Workshop of the World Exhibition

    (Community) The Philadelphia Museum of Art is hosting an exhibition to showcase the region’s historic arts and crafts works, in honor of its 150th anniversary. The exhibit features 250 objects from ceramics and furniture to textiles and stained glass, that tell the story of Philadelphia’s Centennial Exhibition.

    ⌚️July 5 – October 18, 📍2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, Pa, 19130, 🌐 philamuseum.org/, 💵 Free with museum admission

    FIFA Fan Festival

    (Community) Can’t get enough of the World Cup Buzz taking over the city? Don’t miss out on Fan Fest, a visitor experience unlike any others. On match days, come enjoy watch parties, great food and amazing activations. And on non-match days, will offer ticketed concerts.

    ⌚️Through July 19, 📍1 Lemon Hill Dr., Philadelphia, Pa, 19130, 🌐 phillyfwc26.com/, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

    (Community) Franklin Square’s annual illuminated lantern festival is returning and bringing the magic. Celebrate the Year of the Horse with dozens of detailed hand-crafted lanterns. You’ll even spot soccer themed displays honoring the countries coming to Philly for this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

    ⌚️June 5- Aug. 16, 📍200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 phillychineselanternfestival.com, 💵 $16-32

    Roots of Resilience: The 2026 DRWC Flag Exhibition

    (Community) This exhibit celebrates Philadelphia’s rich immigrant history through bold flags designed by artists from around the world. The designs will be displayed all summer long at Spruce Street Harbor Park in honor of all of the people who have made Philly their home.

    ⌚️May 22 – Sept. 7, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com/, 💵 Free

    The best events for kids in Philly

    Blueberry Festival

    (Seasonal) At Linvilla Orchards in Delaware County, summer’s favorite berry gets the spotlight with pie-eating contests, live entertainment, blueberry treats, and pick-your-own fields. Save room for lemon-blueberry whoopie pies, ice cream topped with blueberry compote, and plenty of fresh-picked fruit. All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 8 a.m.–6 p.m., rain date: July 12, 📍137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, Pa. 19063, 🌐 linvilla.com, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

    (Community) Celebrate the centennial of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge by walking across the iconic span—closed to vehicle traffic for the occasion—to a festival in Camden. Prefer to skip the trek? You can always ride PATCO and join the festivities there. Ages 6 and up.

    ⌚ July 11, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 📍Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, and Camden, N.J. 08102, 🌐 drpa.org, 💵 Free

    Celebrate Mantua Day

    (Community) Miles Mack Playground in West Philadelphia comes alive with dance performances, lessons, drill teams, line dancing, PHILADANCO, food trucks, vendors, giveaways, and plenty of neighborhood pride during this all-day festival organized by DANCE IQUAIL! All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 11 a.m.–10 p.m., 📍3601 Aspen St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 🌐 danceiquail.org, 💵 Free

    “Dragons Love Tacos”

    (Theater) The Players Club of Swarthmore brings the beloved children’s book to the stage, following a boy, his dog, and a taco-loving crew of dragons in a delightfully silly adventure that’s sure to entertain young audiences. Ages 3–10.

    ⌚ July 11–12 and July 18–19, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., 📍614 Fairview Rd., Swarthmore, Pa. 19081, 🌐 pcstheater.org, 💵 $10–$15

    Philly Phlotilla

    (Community) Watch—or join—more than 100 patriotic paddlers as they kayak from the Schuylkill River to Fort Mifflin. The celebration continues on land with tours, snacks, and historic cannon firings at one of Philadelphia’s oldest military sites. All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 1–7 p.m., 📍6400 Hog Island Rd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19153, 🌐 schuylkillriver.org, 💵 $10–$16

    RiverFest

    (Seasonal / community) At Glen Foerd on the Delaware, families can paddle canoes, kayaks, and rowboats, try archery, explore hands-on nature activities, watch sailboat races, and grab lunch from food trucks during this annual waterfront celebration. All ages.

    ⌚ July 12, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; rain date July 26, 📍5001 Grant Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19114, 🌐 glenfoerd.org, 💵 Free

    PrismaPhonik

    (Art / free) Spruce Street Harbor Park’s newest attraction is part art installation, part playground. Visitors wander through a maze that responds to movement with changing lights and music, creating an immersive, hands-on experience along the Delaware River waterfront. All ages.

    ⌚ June 26–Aug. 17, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free

    Chinese Lantern Festival

    (Culture) At Franklin Square on the edge of Chinatown, giant illuminated sculptures, live acrobatic performances, food vendors, and countless photo opportunities return for another summer of after-dark magic. All ages.

    ⌚ June 5–Aug. 16, 6–10 p.m., 📍200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 phillychineselanternfestival.com, 💵 $16–$32

    Spruce Street Harbor Park Opens

    (Seasonal / free) The Delaware River waterfront favorite is back with hammocks, oversized games, ice cream, and a few new additions this year, including swan boats, “glow” boats, and Sunday family fun days throughout the season. All ages.

    ⌚ May 22–September, dates TBA, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    Summerfest

    (Seasonal / free) Just north along the Delaware River Waterfront, Summerfest reopens with roller skating, mini golf, carnival rides, games, and indoor space to cool off once summer humidity fully kicks in. All ages.

    ⌚ May 22–Sept. 7, 📍101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    El Mercado Cultural

    (Community / free) At Cherry Street Pier along the Delaware River, this three-part market series — in collaboration with Fleisher Art Memorial — highlights Latino makers with food, music, art, and plenty to browse and buy. All ages.

    ⌚ April 18, May 30, July 11, noon–5 p.m., 📍121 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 cherrystreetpier.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    Parks on Tap

    (Community / free) The city’s roaming beer garden is back, offering drinks, oversized games, and plenty of room for kids to run around all summer long. All ages. Visit Parks on Tap’s website to find the location each week.

    ⌚ Though October 11, Wed.–Fri., 4–10 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., noon–10 p.m.; more locations through Oct. 11, 🌐 parksontap.com, 💵 Free entry

    “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition”

    (Movie-making) The Franklin Institute hosts a world premiere exhibit that turns movie magic into hands-on discovery, with behind-the-scenes looks at Universal’s biggest franchises — from Minions and Jurassic World to dragons, monsters, Mario, and Luigi — via immersive sets and interactive displays. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 14–Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. plus extended hours, 📍222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 🌐 fi.edu, 💵 $25–$65

  • The best things to do in Philadelphia this week

    The best things to do in Philadelphia this week

    Explore all of the best things to do in and around Philadelphia: From upcoming events and art installations to the most picturesque date spots, we share all you need to know to make the most out of your week in Philly.

    You can always find our favorite activities of the week at inquirer.com/things-to-do. Have an event you’d like to feature in the Inquirer? Submit an event to our calendar.

    Yoga on the River

    (Community) Add a moment of calm and zen into your weekly schedule with some riverside yoga. All ages and abilities are encouraged to come, and no prior yoga experience is needed. The class is free, but donations are appreciated and make future programming possible.

    ⌚️July 7, 6-7p.m., 📍7801 State Rd., Philadelphia, Pa, 19136, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 $0-10 donation

    The City Spoon Supper Club

    (Community) Looking for a chill meet up over a delicious meal? This supper club brings guests together to try amazing local restaurants and foster genuine connection. Enjoy an incredible 3-course Italian meal, complimentary welcome drink, and great conversation with other food lovers.

    ⌚️July 8, 7-9p.m., 📍1915 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19148, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 $72

    Summer Candle Making Workshop

    (Community) Capture the sweet smells of summer at this cozy candle making class. You’ll get all of the materials you need to create a custom scented candle, and be led by an experienced instructor through the process. Get ready to impress all of your friends and family with this one-of-a-kind candle and fragrance.

    ⌚️July 9, 7-9p.m., 📍2840 Pine Rd., Huntingdon Valley, Pa, 19006, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 $45

    Blobfest

    (Community) This three day festival dedicated to the iconic film The Blob is like nothing you’ve experienced before. Head to Phoenixville to experience movie scene recreations, stage shows, competitions and more. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed to impress. Tickets are required, so grab yours in advance.

    ⌚️ July 10-12, 📍227 Bridge St., Phoenixville, Pa, 19460, 🌐 thecolonialtheatre.com 💵 $15-45

    Blueberry Festival

    (Community) Blueberry season is officially in full swing. Celebrate one of summer’s favorite fruits with berry picking, magic shows, a pie eating contest, delicious treats and so much more. Tickets are not required to attend the festival but are required for berry picking.

    ⌚️July 11, 8a.m. – 6p.m., 📍 137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, Pa, 19063, 🌐 www.linvilla.com, 💵 $11

    Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

    (Community) The Ben Franklin Bridge has connected millions of people across the Delaware River for a century. Join in the celebration of the impact of this iconic bridge with live music, food trucks, performances, carnival rides and so much more. This event is perfect for the entire family to enjoy.

    ⌚️July 11, 10a.m. – 2p.m., 📍 Benjamin Franklin Bridge Plaza, Camden, NJ 08102, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 Free

    Free People Summer Social

    (Community) Grab a friend or two and head to this celebration of all things summer, hosted by Free People. Guests will get to enjoy tasty food trucks, lawn games, live a movie screening, free goodies and more. Children 15 and under get free admission.

    ⌚️July 11, 5-9p.m., 📍1 Crescent Dr., Philadelphia, Pa, 19112, 🌐 freepeoplesummersocial.splashthat.com/, : $5

    IRIS Music Festival

    (Music) This festival features some of Philadelphia’s best woman and femme-identifying artists, artisans and vendors. Enjoy live music performances, delicious food served up from local food trucks, shop local vendors and more. Performances include Poster Girl, DJ Queen Yaszy, BLCKCHLD and more.

    ⌚️July 12, 12:30-8p.m., 📍500 N. 10th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19123, 🌐 events.ticketleap.com/, 💵 $31.60

    The Sound of America

    (Theater) Have you ever imagined a world where Ben Franklin became the nation’s first rock star? Jump into a world where that very thing is true in this rock musical rooted in American history. Each ticket includes a 45-minute walking tour led by Ben Franklin himself.

    ⌚️July 1- Aug. 1, 📍140 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 soundofamericamusical.com/, 💵 $76

    Philadelphia African Restaurant Week

    (Community) Celebrate the best of Philadelphia African, African American and Caribbean food scene. Enjoy amazing restaurants, discounted menus at participating businesses, prizes for sharing your bites and so much more.

    ⌚️July 2-12, 📍Various locations, 🌐 africanrestaurantweek.com/, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Workshop of the World Exhibition

    (Community) The Philadelphia Museum of Art is hosting an exhibition to showcase the region’s historic arts and crafts works, in honor of its 150th anniversary. The exhibit features 250 objects from ceramics and furniture to textiles and stained glass, that tell the story of Philadelphia’s Centennial Exhibition.

    ⌚️July 5 – October 18, 📍2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., Philadelphia, Pa, 19130, 🌐 philamuseum.org/, 💵 Free with museum admission

    FIFA Fan Festival

    (Community) Can’t get enough of the World Cup Buzz taking over the city? Don’t miss out on Fan Fest, a visitor experience unlike any others. On match days, come enjoy watch parties, great food and amazing activations. And on non-match days, will offer ticketed concerts.

    ⌚️Through July 19, 📍1 Lemon Hill Dr., Philadelphia, Pa, 19130, 🌐 phillyfwc26.com/, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

    (Community) Franklin Square’s annual illuminated lantern festival is returning and bringing the magic. Celebrate the Year of the Horse with dozens of detailed hand-crafted lanterns. You’ll even spot soccer themed displays honoring the countries coming to Philly for this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

    ⌚️June 5- Aug. 16, 📍200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 phillychineselanternfestival.com, 💵 $16-32

    Roots of Resilience: The 2026 DRWC Flag Exhibition

    (Community) This exhibit celebrates Philadelphia’s rich immigrant history through bold flags designed by artists from around the world. The designs will be displayed all summer long at Spruce Street Harbor Park in honor of all of the people who have made Philly their home.

    ⌚️May 22 – Sept. 7, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com/, 💵 Free

    The best events for kids in Philly

    Blueberry Festival

    (Seasonal) At Linvilla Orchards in Delaware County, summer’s favorite berry gets the spotlight with pie-eating contests, live entertainment, blueberry treats, and pick-your-own fields. Save room for lemon-blueberry whoopie pies, ice cream topped with blueberry compote, and plenty of fresh-picked fruit. All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 8 a.m.–6 p.m., rain date: July 12, 📍137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, Pa. 19063, 🌐 linvilla.com, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

    (Community) Celebrate the centennial of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge by walking across the iconic span—closed to vehicle traffic for the occasion—to a festival in Camden. Prefer to skip the trek? You can always ride PATCO and join the festivities there. Ages 6 and up.

    ⌚ July 11, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 📍Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, and Camden, N.J. 08102, 🌐 drpa.org, 💵 Free

    Celebrate Mantua Day

    (Community) Miles Mack Playground in West Philadelphia comes alive with dance performances, lessons, drill teams, line dancing, PHILADANCO, food trucks, vendors, giveaways, and plenty of neighborhood pride during this all-day festival organized by DANCE IQUAIL! All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 11 a.m.–10 p.m., 📍3601 Aspen St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 🌐 danceiquail.org, 💵 Free

    “Dragons Love Tacos”

    (Theater) The Players Club of Swarthmore brings the beloved children’s book to the stage, following a boy, his dog, and a taco-loving crew of dragons in a delightfully silly adventure that’s sure to entertain young audiences. Ages 3–10.

    ⌚ July 11–12 and July 18–19, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., 📍614 Fairview Rd., Swarthmore, Pa. 19081, 🌐 pcstheater.org, 💵 $10–$15

    Philly Phlotilla

    (Community) Watch—or join—more than 100 patriotic paddlers as they kayak from the Schuylkill River to Fort Mifflin. The celebration continues on land with tours, snacks, and historic cannon firings at one of Philadelphia’s oldest military sites. All ages.

    ⌚ July 11, 1–7 p.m., 📍6400 Hog Island Rd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19153, 🌐 schuylkillriver.org, 💵 $10–$16

    RiverFest

    (Seasonal / community) At Glen Foerd on the Delaware, families can paddle canoes, kayaks, and rowboats, try archery, explore hands-on nature activities, watch sailboat races, and grab lunch from food trucks during this annual waterfront celebration. All ages.

    ⌚ July 12, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; rain date July 26, 📍5001 Grant Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19114, 🌐 glenfoerd.org, 💵 Free

    PrismaPhonik

    (Art / free) Spruce Street Harbor Park’s newest attraction is part art installation, part playground. Visitors wander through a maze that responds to movement with changing lights and music, creating an immersive, hands-on experience along the Delaware River waterfront. All ages.

    ⌚ June 26–Aug. 17, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free

    Chinese Lantern Festival

    (Culture) At Franklin Square on the edge of Chinatown, giant illuminated sculptures, live acrobatic performances, food vendors, and countless photo opportunities return for another summer of after-dark magic. All ages.

    ⌚ June 5–Aug. 16, 6–10 p.m., 📍200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 phillychineselanternfestival.com, 💵 $16–$32

    Spruce Street Harbor Park

    (Seasonal / free) The Delaware River waterfront favorite is back with hammocks, oversized games, ice cream, and a few new additions this year, including swan boats, “glow” boats, and Sunday family fun days throughout the season. All ages.

    ⌚ May 22–September, dates TBA, 📍301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    Summerfest

    (Seasonal / free) Just north along the Delaware River Waterfront, Summerfest reopens with roller skating, mini golf, carnival rides, games, and indoor space to cool off once summer humidity fully kicks in. All ages.

    ⌚ May 22–Sept. 7, 📍101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    El Mercado Cultural

    (Community / free) At Cherry Street Pier along the Delaware River, this three-part market series — in collaboration with Fleisher Art Memorial — highlights Latino makers with food, music, art, and plenty to browse and buy. All ages.

    ⌚ April 18, May 30, July 11, noon–5 p.m., 📍121 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 cherrystreetpier.com, 💵 Free, pay-as-you-go

    Parks on Tap

    (Community / free) The city’s roaming beer garden is back, offering drinks, oversized games, and plenty of room for kids to run around all summer long. All ages. Visit Parks on Tap’s website to find the location each week.

    ⌚ Though October 11, Wed.–Fri., 4–10 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., noon–10 p.m.; more locations through Oct. 11, 🌐 parksontap.com, 💵 Free entry

    “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition”

    (Movie-making) The Franklin Institute hosts a world premiere exhibit that turns movie magic into hands-on discovery, with behind-the-scenes looks at Universal’s biggest franchises — from Minions and Jurassic World to dragons, monsters, Mario, and Luigi — via immersive sets and interactive displays. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 14–Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. plus extended hours, 📍222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 🌐 fi.edu, 💵 $25–$65

  • The Roots, Will Smith, and Meek Mill carried Philly’s Independence Day concert into July 5

    The Roots, Will Smith, and Meek Mill carried Philly’s Independence Day concert into July 5

    The July Fourth party carried over into July 5.

    After a three-hour-plus rain-and-lightning delay on Saturday night, the One Philly: Unity Concert for America for the nation’s 250th birthday finally resumed on Sunday morning.

    Shortly before midnight, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway grounds that had been evacuated earlier in the evening due to severe weather were reopened and thousands of diehard concertgoers made their way to the front of the stage.

    There DJ Aktive hyped up a crowd — younger, on average than at the earlier hour — that was a mix of Philadelphians and visiting World Cup soccer fans by spinning records by Beyoncé, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, and Journey. (Yes, Journey.)

    Then at 12:44 a.m., Mayor Cherelle L. Parker — last seen on stage with Gov. Josh Shapiro four hours earlier — came out, led the crowd in a “Ain’t no party like a Philly block party because a Philly block party don’t stop” chant, and introduced “the Legendary Roots Crew!”

    Starting with a sly intro — a few measures of Chicago’s “Saturday in the Park” — the unparalleled Philly hip-hop and Tonight Show house band then put on a musical master class. Rapper (and singer) Black Thought displayed his trademark staggering breath control as he led the band (who were accompanied by DJ Jazzy Jeff) in a 20-minute nonstop workout that pulled from a century of Black music, including the band’s own rich 30-year catalog.

    It was busy day for the Roots, as well as a logistically challenging one. Before taking their positions on stage in front of the Art Museum, the Philly hip-hop crew were scheduled to headline the pregame festivities at the France-Paraguay World Cup match in South Philly.

    And after the Roots, it was time for the all-Philly guest list. (Christina Aguilera, from Pittsburgh, the scheduled headliner, did not perform.)

    First up was Kathy Sledge, who now performs the hits she scored with her siblings as Sister Sledge under her own name.

    Kathy Sledge from Sister Sledge performs with the Roots at One Philly: Unity Concert for America on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway early Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Philadelphia.

    She was accompanied by a team of dancers, and on “He’s the Greatest Dancer,” a couple of eager-to-boogie dudes brought up on stage from the crowd.

    The showstopper, of course, was “We Are Family,” which with Questlove keeping the beat and sousaphone player Damon Bryson moving along with the dancers, played out as a wee-hours-of-the-morning singalong.

    This year’s July Fourth pre-fireworks concert on the Parkway was managed by the City of Philadelphia, after in previous recent years being produced by Wawa Welcome America, a nonprofit established by the city. The Inquirer has reported that the city is due to pay Philly-based ESM Productions about $15.5 million for the show, considerably more than the total of $6.6 million that constituted the budget for Wawa Welcome America’s entire slate of events in 2024.

    Stars from the city that ‘raised a nation’

    Sledge was followed by the full complement of the State Property crew, which meant not only Beanie Sigel and Philly Freeway, but also Peedi Crakk and Chris and Neff, the duo formerly known as Yung Gunz, who provided the high point of their Roots-backed set with their ageless rap classic “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop.”

    “I’m loving the energy tonight, I’m glad we came back,” said the next guest, Meek Mill. “I was headed out of town, and I had to double back.”

    With the Roots backing him, and Questlove in particular locked in, it was at once the most tightly disciplined and casually freewheeling Meek performance I’ve ever seen.

    That went for throwback tracks like “ImaCQ Boss” and “House Party” as well as an especially epic “Dreams and Nightmares,” before which the rapper asked the crowd to light up the night, which they did, with phones and flames.

    Last but not least was the Fresh Prince himself, Will Smith, who came bounding out shortly after 2 a.m. in a red Phillies cap and jacket to join the band and Jazzy Jeff, his musical partner Jeff Townes, with whom he was catapulted to stardom in the late 1980s.

    Will Smith performs at the One Philly: Unity Concert for America on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Philadelphia.

    Smith has had a rocky time of it since he set his career back significantly by slapping Chris Rock on the Oscars in 2022, and his relatively joyless 2025 comeback rap album Based On a True Story didn’t help matters much.

    But on the Parkway, Smith was in his element and back on form.

    “Every dream I ever dreamed I dreamed in these streets,” Smith said. He then got into Semiquincentennial mode.

    “And this city didn’t just raise me. It didn’t just raise us. It raised a nation. Two hundred fifty years ago, it all began here. So Happy Birthday, America!”

    And with that, Smith, Townes, and the Roots did the song everybody wanted to hear, in this season in 2026: “Summertime.”

    International superstar opening

    Before the storm drama, the One Philly: Unity Concert for America celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday got going with an international superstar opening act.

    British pop-rock vocalist Seal went on at 5:45 p.m., dressed in a yellow jacket, just as the sun dipped low enough to provide a sliver of shade and some relief for the red, white, and blue crowd gathering in front of the stage.

    British singer Seal performs at One Philly: Unity Concert for America on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Philadelphia.

    Seemingly unbothered by the heat, the London-born singer of Nigerian and Brazilian descent demonstrated that he knows how to play to a Philadelphia crowd. His second song began with the instantly recognizable “doo, doo, doo-doo doo-doo’s” of the Steve Miller Band’s “Fly Like an Eagle.”

    In fine, smoky voice, he finished his version of that 1976 hit and quipped: “I know you want it to be ‘Fly, Eagles, Fly,’ but you not going to get it. Not in this lifetime.”

    For Seal’s mellow, sultry summer afternoon set, he was backed by a band that included West Philly native Gail Ann Dorsey, who previously toured frequently with David Bowie.

    Fast-paced country

    Louisiana-born country singer Jordan Davis — who was a late add to the One Philly concert lineup — has scored a number of country hits in recent years.

    His music leans slightly toward rock and roll, taking a page out of arena-sized star Eric Church’s playbook. His slick 40-minute set was fast-paced, with hits like “Tucson Too Late,” and “Turn This Truck Around” coming in rapid succession as if Davis was worried that if he slowed down, Philly hip-hop and R&B fans would start to wonder what this country guy was doing singing in their city on its big July Fourth celebration.

    Jill Scott gets in the groove — and then an evacuation

    The evening found its groove after comedian Wanda Sykes introduced Jill Scott, the first hometown hero to take the stage, which pictured her on a video screen image framed by the purple outline of the Liberty Bell.

    The crowd — complete with a contingent of French fans fresh from their team’s World Cup victory in Philadelphia earlier in the evening — filled out the area in front of the stage.

    Jill Scott (left) and Tierra Whack on the stage at One Philly: Unity Concert for America on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Philadelphia.

    The size of the crowd, though, seemed several magnitudes smaller than the 300,000 that had been projected in advance to attend throughout the night. In fact, it was much more comfortable and less packed than during the years Jay-Z staged his Made in America festival on the Parkway, which was capped at 50,000.

    Scott, who now lives in Nashville, seemed delighted to be back in her hometown. Looking radiant in a blue chambray dress and matching denim hat, Jilly from Philly thanked “the city that made me, the love that grew me, and the reason that I’m how I am right now.”

    Fronting a funky eight-piece band — “This is live music,” she reminded the core at several junctures — Scott sampled classics from her catalog such as “A Long Walk.” She also shouted out Girls High and Temple University and also fondly recalled seeing Frankie Beverly & Maze perform at the Robin Hood Dell East as a girl.

    She also sang a snippet of Jackie Wilson’s “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher,” and thanked “these streets, hip-hop, a dollar cheesesteaks that kept me going.”

    Scott’s set really caught fire when she called out “North Philly, baby!” And brought out Philly rapper Tierra Whack for a deliriously fun pas de deux on “Norf Side” from Scott’s new album, To Whom This May Concern.

    At that point the crowd was looking ahead to three more hours of music before the 250th birthday fireworks scheduled for about midnight.

    But instead, attendees were asked to leave the premises because of imminent severe weather.

    The One Philly show was shown on NBC10 and streamed live on Paramount+.

  • Beyoncé gave us her first new song in two years with surprise Fourth of July release

    Beyoncé gave us her first new song in two years with surprise Fourth of July release

    We have something else to celebrate this Independence Day: a new Beyoncé song.

    The iconic singer released “Morning Dew (Donk),” a sultry, ‘90s-coded R&B track, Saturday morning with no warning.

    It’s a special Fourth of July holiday gift to her fans, according to a news release about the song — and Queen Bey’s first piece of new music in two years.

    The single starts the clock on a 60-day countdown to the singer’s 45th birthday and the reissue of B’Day, her hit sophomore album that first dropped 20 years ago, on Sept. 4, 2006.

    Sorry, BeyHive, no word on Act III, the highly anticipated, unnamed, and unreleased final chapter of Beyoncé’s three-part album project. The Today show reported that fans shouldn’t expect any sort of Act III announcement this week.

    Act II, aka Cowboy Carter, Beyoncé’s award-winning foray into country music, was another example of the singer’s use of the Fourth of July holiday as a means to explore and challenge themes surrounding American identity, especially the Black and Southern experience. Last year, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter D.C. tour stop took place on the Fourth of July.

    View on Threads

    The show highlighted Black empowerment as Beyoncé opened the show wrapped in a large American flag, just a few miles from the U.S. Capitol.

    While it’s not the Act III fans have been waiting for, “Morning Dew (Donk)” is an exciting new portfolio addition.

    It was written by Beyoncé, Pharrell Williams, The-Dream and Darius Dixon, and produced by Beyoncé and Pharrell Williams. The song features Williams’ signature four-count producer tag.

  • Amid a heat wave, Philly Pops and Idina Menzel played music that arrived like a balm on Independence Mall

    Amid a heat wave, Philly Pops and Idina Menzel played music that arrived like a balm on Independence Mall

    Whatever brutally hot designs the weather gods had in store Friday for Philadelphia’s Independence Day celebrations, by 8 p.m. the temperature fell below 90 degrees, and the music on Independence Mall arrived like a balm.

    Listeners were stretched across the lawn of the mall fairly solidly from Independence Hall to Arch Street — an estimated 12,000 attendees, according to a Wawa Welcome America spokesperson. Whether drawn by the Philly Pops with tunes patriotic or stirring, or by popular actress-singer Idina Menzel, the crowd was in a mood at once celebratory and relaxed.

    The weather posed no threat, at least for the first hour or so.

    At Friday night’s Philly Pops concert on Independence Mall.

    This annual tradition of “Pops on Independence,” a free Philly Pops concert on the mall, has become a way of taking the national temperature. Last year, a few months into the new presidential administration, there were subtle references to the political moment, with the acting superintendent of Independence National Historical Park speaking to the audience about equal rights of all kinds, including marriage rights, and referencing a nation “built on the struggle for freedom from tyranny, and the principle of liberty for all under the just rule of law.”

    Friday night, park superintendent Steven Sims struck a more anodyne note, speaking of the historic setting, the city’s events this week commemorating the 250th anniversary of the nation, and of celebrating with “one of our most universal languages — music.”

    The audience seemed only too happy to live inside of this bubble for a while, though to the woman holding up a “Striving for Democracy” sign, you were seen.

    Philly Pops music director Chris Dragon speaking to the crowd during Friday’s “Pops on Independence” concert on Independence Mall.

    No one should take for granted the fact that this concert endures. The group performing Friday under the Philly Pops name is a band of survivors, emerging after the demise of the original Philly Pops and much organizational and legal drama. Had the orchestra not reorganized, a 4 ½-decade tradition of hearing music with no less a backdrop than Independence Hall might be gone.

    Listening and strolling on Independence Mall Friday night at the Philly Pops concert.

    How many other cities can boast as powerful and authentic a resonance between art and setting? When the Pops performed its Armed Forces Salute — having audience members stand as the respective song of the military branch in which they served was played — it made real and human the idea of such service to the nation.

    A section has been added to the medley to recognize the U.S. Space Force, established during the first Trump administration; I could be mistaken, but no service member from that branch who might have been in Friday’s audience appears to have stood for this song, called “Semper Supra.”

    Idina Menzel performing with the Philly Pops Friday night.

    Judging by the number of families with young children in attendance, the main attraction was Menzel, and if they came to hear “Let It Go” from Frozen, they were not disappointed. Menzel was a canny choice for this occasion; she is a singer who knows how to send sound and charisma back to the farthest reaches of the audience.

    It was not necessarily the best night to appreciate the talents of the Pops and conductor Chris Dragon. The sound system near me, fairly far back from the stage, cut in and out. No sound check had been possible because of the heat, a Pops spokesperson said. And the concert ended earlier than planned after organizers grew concerned by gathering dark clouds and flashes of lightning. The last few pieces that might have showcased the ensemble weren’t played. A loss, for sure.

    But the event succeeded on so many other levels, that it didn’t matter.

    As the crowd headed off with the music fresh in their ears, downtown buildings were aglow red, white, and blue; young families lingered and took selfies; and Market Street on a Friday night seemed like the lively urban stretch it once was and could be again.

  • How to have a Perfect Philly Day, according to historian, author, and educator Michelle Craig McDonald

    How to have a Perfect Philly Day, according to historian, author, and educator Michelle Craig McDonald

    Philadelphia historian, author, and educator Michelle Craig McDonald knows her coffee. Especially the revolutionary kind.

    McDonald, who serves as an academic adviser for PBS’s series Drive By History, is the author of the new book, Coffee Nation: How One Commodity Transformed the Early United States.

    Philly historian and educator Michelle Craig McDonald enjoys reading in Rittenhouse Square Park. She is the author of “Coffee Nation: How One Commodity Transformed the Early United States.”

    Telling the story of America and coffee, McDonald traces the bean’s beginnings from slavery-based plantations of the Caribbean and South America in the early 1700s through its prominence in Colonial life to the rebranding of the exotic good as an American staple. McDonald details the emergence of coffee shops, like the Old London Coffee House at Front and Market Streets, as critical Revolutionary-era hubs for politics and business.

    “Within 50 years of our independence, the United States becomes one of the largest suppliers of coffee to the world — but we can never grow it,” said McDonald. So in this moment, when we think about independence, coffee really reminds us that the United States remains deeply tied and deeply embedded with the economies of the region. It was not just a self-sustaining nation that looked inward.”

    Given the nature of her research, it’s no surprise that McDonald’s Perfect Philly Day revolves around food and drink. McDonald, a Southern California native who lives in Rittenhouse Square with her husband and fellow historian, Roderick A. McDonald, said her perfect day includes lots of coffee and cooking, a great Philly workout, and reading crime novels in Rittenhouse Square.

    6:30 a.m.

    My coffee pot is my first spot. I’m going to need fortification if I’m going to tackle the day’s news. I just go with the tried and true Colombian roast from Trader Joe’s.

    When we are down the Shore, my favorite comes from Remedee Coffee, started by two sisters who source their beans from Colombia. It’s a great small business.

    On a perfect day, this is when we do our New York Times games — like Connections or Wordle — which we do together. My sister says it’s cheating. I like to say it’s “collaborating.”

    8:30 a.m.

    I love cooking of all kinds, but baking is my first love. My go-to on a perfect day is a batch of scones. I have a recipe that I got online from a website called Love and Lemons. It’s a base recipe. You can make anything you want. Cranberry, orange walnut, apricot, ginger almond, or my brother-in-law’s favorite, which I know because he buys the ingredients every time I visit, blueberry lemon.

    I used to head over to Metropolitan Bakery on 19th Street, which I am still mourning the loss of.

    I loved their Millet Muffins and raisin walnut bread. My freezer is stuffed with both because I bought as many as I could before they closed. And I’m slowly rationing them so I don’t lose them quickly.

    9:30 a.m.

    We have a solid division of labor in the household. I do the cooking. But my husband does the shopping. While the scones are in the oven, he may well be on his way down to the Italian Market on his vintage 1962 Schwinn bicycle — expertly serviced by Curtis at Via Bicycle on Broad Street. He’s a fan favorite!

    My husband is the provisioner of the house. I get to take what he brings back from the list — and sometimes not from the list. It feels like my own personal version of Chopped. He comes home with five ingredients and says, “What can you do with this?’”

    10 a.m.

    I’m hitting the gym. I do love eating, which means I need to pay the piper. I go to Pure Barre in Center City. It’s wonderful. It’s a class — a core-based workout that does weightlifting, planks, pushups. An hour there, any day I can get it, gives me enough brownie points for the rest of the day’s culinary adventures.

    If the weather is nice, we might substitute a bike ride down the Schuylkill River Trail. Manayunk is a great destination.

    Noon

    That’s when Small World Seafood is in the area with deliveries. It’s an Old City business that was born out of necessity. The owner provided fresh seafood to restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Then he began an online business selling directly to customers. You can get anything — halibut, skate steaks, steelhead trout, oysters, clams — for a lazy cooking night.

    Michelle Craig McDonald’s perfect Philly day includes lots of coffee and cooking, a great Philly workout, and reading crime fiction in Rittenhouse Square.

    1 p.m.

    I’ve got the fish and I’m marinating it for dinner. Steelhead trout is one of my favorites, so super easy, a little bit of soy, a little bit of orange, a little bit of brown sugar, a little bit of maple, and garlic.

    2 p.m.

    On a perfect day, when I can while my time away, you will find me reading in Rittenhouse Square. I have an abiding passion for crime fiction. Ann Cleeves. Donna Leon.

    And if it’s not great weather, you could still find me reading, but probably in one of any of a dozen coffee shops that are within walking distance of my house.

    There was a great article that just ran recently in The Inquirer about the rise of Yemeni coffee shops in the city, such as Moka & Co.

    3 p.m.

    This is where it’s going to get busy. I would be remiss if I didn’t bring a little history and culture into this day. The American Philosophical Society has a wonderful project called “The Revolutionary City: A Portal to the Nation’s Founding.” It’s a partnership where five Philadelphia historical institutions — the APS, the Library Company of Philadelphia, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, the Kislak Center at Penn Libraries, and the Museum of the American Revolution — came together to plan for 2026, and all their exhibits build on each other. Now I know that’s a long afternoon. Readers can pick and choose and see the others on their second favorite perfect Philly day [laughter].

    6 p.m.

    My husband and I cook together. If it’s Saturday, the compulsory listen is “The Many Moods of Ben Vaughn.” Cooking is my way to unwind and my husband is an excellent sous chef.

    8 p.m.

    We tend to have a leisurely meal with a glass of wine or two, and review the day’s exploits. An episode of television in the evening is a good escape. We are huge PBS fans. We love British crime dramas. We are huge fans of Shetland, a Scottish crime drama, and Vera, an old British crime drama with a curmudgeonly police detective.

    10 p.m.

    I am not a night owl. But I will confess to a wee dram of bourbon most evenings. Then, a little more light reading. And it’s time for lights out.

    This interview has been edited for length and clarity.