Skip to content

Philadelphia local news, sports, jobs, cars, homes

Tag: DoThis

  • 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

    July 6, 2026
  • 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

    July 6, 2026
  • How to stay cool without air conditioning in Philly

    How to stay cool without air conditioning in Philly

    Summer in Philly is always hot.

    There are lots of air conditioned spaces you can go to for relief. Organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Health have always recommended going to air-conditioned spaces — like a mall or library — to protect yourself from heat-related problems.

    “With extreme heat, it is always important to remain cool, possibly in air-conditioned atmospheres,” state health department of health press secretary Maggi Mumma said in 2020.

    There are, however, some things you can do at home to keep a little cooler if you are AC-less this summer. Here is what you need to know:

    How to cool your body down

    Let’s start with the basics: One key way to fight heat-related discomfort is to drink lots of cool water, which can both keep you hydrated and help cool you down. Sugary or alcoholic beverages can cause you to lose more body fluids. Dr. Joseph Teel, an associate professor of family medicine and community health at Penn Medicine, says you should drink water frequently.

    Why elderly people react differently to heat

    How much? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. How much you need to drink can vary if you have health conditions such as congestive heart failure, Teel says, or be exacerbated by your environment, level of exercise, and overall health. One tip: Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink, the state health department says.

    When someone suffers heat exhaustion on a sports field, Teel says an ice bath can help bring down their temperature. You can take the same approach. A cold bath or shower, he says, can help but is not a permanent solution because “you can’t stay in the shower all summer.”

    You can use cool compresses, Mumma says, to help cool down. Making one is simple: Just wet a washcloth or towel in cold water, and put it on your body. Where should you put it? Some of the most effective areas, Teel says, are around your neck and on your groin, and if you’re at home, you can try using them with minimal clothing on to hit a few areas at once.

    You can step up that technique by using fans to make it an “evaporative process,” Teel says. “If we have water on our skin and it evaporates, it takes with it some heat,” he says. Put on your cold compress and use a fan to blow air across your skin, which Teel says can “cool you down a little faster than just a cold cloth itself.”

    Beating the heat in Love Park fountain, during a hot summer day in Philadelphia.

    How to cool down your house

    Use fans wisely. Fans can be one of the best ways to keep cool — but there are right and wrong ways to use them. The city, for example, says you should never use a fan with your windows closed, which can create an “oven effect” by circulating hot air inside your home.

    Fans can be more effective when the heat of the day is over, and you can open your windows to allow the cool night air in, Teel says. One of the best ways to create airflow is to put a box fan in an open window at one end of your space blowing air in, and another fan in a window blowing air out at the other end.

    And if your home has ceiling fans, make sure the blades are rotating counterclockwise during hot weather. That way, the fan will push air down into your space to create a breeze. (Many ceiling fans have a directional switch on their motor that controls the direction in which they spin.)

    There are more ways to keep your home cool.

    Think about when you use your appliances. The Pennsylvania Utility Commission, for example, says that you should wait to use any appliances that generate heat — such as dryers, dishwashers, and ovens — until after 7 p.m. to avoid heating up your home unnecessarily. Turning off other nonessential appliances and lights is also a good idea.

    Keep your blinds closed during the day. The sun, Teel says, can heat up your home faster, like a greenhouse. The PUC recommends spending time in rooms that are not hit with direct sunlight during the day.

    City pools were closed in 2020, but will reopen for the 2021 summer.

    If you’re going to buy an AC

    Window air conditioners are much cheaper and more convenient to install than central air, and if you can afford one, it may be a good time. However, there are some things to consider when buying a window unit.

    As Consumer Reports points out, you will want to get an AC that is appropriately sized for the room you are trying to cool. If it’s too small, it will have trouble cooling the room; if it’s too big, it will cool the room quickly but leave too much moisture behind. A good rule of thumb is for the unit to have 20 BTUs (British Thermal Units) of cooling power for every square foot of space in the room.

    And if you need help with utility costs this summer, funding from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is available for qualified residents, a city spokesperson says.

    Think about when you go out

    The health department recommends staying indoors as much as possible and limiting exercise during the hottest parts of the day, Mumma says. However, if you have to go out, stay in the shade as much as possible and wear sunscreen, a ventilated hat, and sunglasses.

    If you need to go shopping, Teel says, “look ahead in the week, and pick a cooler day. Avoid the time when you will be subjected to midday heat.”

    At home, Teel says, wear as little clothing as possible. When out and about, consider using light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable, light materials like cotton that let air to circulate around you.

    June 30, 2026
  • Best barbecue in Philadelphia to eat right now

    Best barbecue in Philadelphia to eat right now

    Philly isn’t exactly known for barbecue. But there is a robust scene here, with players, old and new, doing it up right and keeping us full.

    Local barbecue specialists smoke meats for more than a dozen hours to achieve the perfect smoke ring and Texas-trained chefs cook up exciting takes on classic barbecue dishes.

    Here is our guide to the region’s best barbecue.

    Fette Sau

    Fette Sau (German for “Fat Pig”), opened in Fishtown to eager crowds more than a decade ago and has since established itself as a mainstay in the Philly barbecue scene. The shop has three signature barbecue sauces each offering its own tangy, smoky, or spicy flavor to the pink-ringed smoked meats and meat-heavy sandwiches.

    📍1208 Frankford Ave., 📞 215-391-4888, 🌐 fettesauphilly.com, 📷 @fettesauphilly

    Ruth Henri, owner and chef, prepares ribs from the smoker with help from Michael Bradley at Henri’s Hotts BBQ, a roadside barbecue joint in Hammonton, N.J.

    Henri’s Hotts BBQ

    After owner Doug Henri passed away unexpectedly in 2021, his capable wife Ruthie took over the beloved roadside barbecue spot known for slow-smoked meats and homestyle soul food. Not much has changed with the family matriarch at the helm: The brisket — which smokes for 19 hours — is still moist, the St. Louis Style ribs are still cooked until the ribs bend and served fresh (never reheated), and the corn pudding still comes from Henri’s grandmother’s recipe.

    📍1003 E. Black Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ,📞 609-270-7268, 🌐 henrishottsbarbeque.com, 📷 @henrishottsbbq

    Mike’s BBQ

    Pit master Mike Strauss may have sold his namesake barbecue joint to young gun Daniel Grobman in 2023, but Strauss’ energy still courses through the kitchen thanks to a virtually unchanged menu. The spare ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and crispy pork belly remain fantastic, while the restaurant’s Korean barbecue wings have a hard to replicate smokey-yet-spicy flavor — just asked Herr’s, which made a limited-edition chip inspired by the recipe in 2023.

    📍1703 S. 11th St., 📞 267-831-2040, 🌐 mikesbbqphilly.com, 📷 @mikesbbq_215

    A platter including pork ribs, brisket, and jerk chicken at Big Swerve’s BBQ, located 201 Broadway, Westville, N.J.

    Big Swerve’s BBQ

    Hidden down an alley and around a parking lot in Westville, Gloucester County, is Big Swerve’s, a converted shipping container that churns out oversized platters of brisket and chicken with all the classic Southern fixings. Big Swerve is actually Stephen Clark, a former Free Library of Philadelphia security guard who stands 6′3″ and is fastidious about what powers his smoker ( lump charcoal, oak and cherry wood, never hickory). Big Swerve’s is best known for their brisket-stuffed egg rolls and jerk chicken sliders, plus combos that include three proteins and three sides, more than enough to share.

    📍201 Broadway, Westville, N.J.📞 856-349-7469, 🌐 bigswervesbbq.com, 📷 @bigswervesbbq

    Rick’s Backyard Barbeque & Grill

    Rick Gray opened Rick’s Backyard Barbeque & Grill in Mizpah in the location where beloved Uncle Dewey’s BBQ operated for over two decades. Here, find a smoker as big as a school bus’s hood, plus a menu inspired by the barbecue Gray’s father, Melvin Gray Sr., cooked at backyard family cookouts, a distinctive, and perhaps elusive flavor that he captures with the touch of charcoal that he adds to regulate the heat of his oak logs. Gray’s seasonings are fairly simple, letting the meats and their slow ride through the long brick smoking pits. Try the tender spareribs or opt for the chicken, particularly when it’s taken fresh off the grill. Rick’s is closed for the season through mid-April, but is still taking catering order over the phone should a rib emergency ever strike.

    📍 6931 US-40, Mizpah, NJ, .📞 609-476-4040 🌐 facebook.com/ricksbbqgrill

    The Hickory smoked wings at Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse, located at 7500 State Rd. in Holmesburg.

    Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse

    Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse in Holmesburg is a reliable barbecue spot with a well-rounded menu of hickory-smoked meats, sandwiches, and sides. Meats like smoked chicken and pulled pork are available in platter, sandwich or just meat form, and smoked wings and baby back ribs round out the menu.

    📍7500 State Rd., .📞 215-333-9663 🌐 sweetlucys.com, 📷 @sweetlucys_bbq

    Brisket, pulled pork, and pork ribs from the Ole Hickory smoker at Zig Zag BBQ in Kensington.

    Zig Zag BBQ

    Owner Matt Lang smokes on a gas-fired Ole Hickory, turning out brisket, pork, turkey, and pork spare ribs, which he sells by the pound and in sandwiches. A rotating assortment of sides such as queso mac, corn pudding, potato salad, and KFC style slaw complement the selection of meats.

    📍2111 E. York St., .📞 267-951-2596 🌐 zigzagbbq.com, 📷 @zigzagbbq

    January 29, 2026
  • Philly, here are 15 great places to get party trays for Super Bowl LX

    Philly, here are 15 great places to get party trays for Super Bowl LX

    If you’re hosting or attending a Super Bowl party, food is a must — lots of it.

    The Philly area offers an abundance of options for trays, platters, and à la carte items. From traditional Italian fare and charcuterie boards to savory Indian, Middle Eastern, and Argentinian party foods, the variety is impressive.

    Here are some excellent spots around Philly for picking up a spread for your Super Bowl party. And since the Eagles aren’t playing, the hardest part of your day will be deciding what to eat.

    Philly Pretzel Factory

    You can’t go wrong with a pretzel tray, especially when it’s from a Philly favorite. Get the large size rivets party tray for 20 to 25 people with three dips or the classic Philly Pretzel-style beef pretzel dogs and dips for 20 to 25 guests. The pepperoni melts — basically a pretzel pizza — are another good option for large parties. Order at any of the various locations.

    📍1532 Sansom St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102 (and other locations from Woodbury to Springfield), 📞 215-569-3988, 📷 @phillypretzelfactory, 🌐 phillypretzelfactory.com

    Veda

    From quarter trays for 10 people to full ones serving 50 people, this Center City restaurant has all the veggie samosas, tandoori chicken, and pork ribs for you and your crew. Choose from lamb, chicken, vegetarian, and seafood entrees, rice and biryani items, soups and salads, and desserts, including gulab jamun and kheer. Mango lassi is also offered.

    📍1920 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 📞 267-519-2001, 📷 @vedaphilly, 🌐 vedaphilly.com

    Di Bruno Bros.

    If you’re looking for a cheese tray or charcuterie board, it’s tough to beat this Philly institution. The shop has a catering arm for premade cheese boards, charcuterie trays, sandwich trays, crudités platters, colossal shrimp cocktail, desserts, and just about anything else you can think of — all available for pickup or delivery. You can also build your perfect board from a substantial selection of cheeses, cured meats, and other specialty items with the help of Di Bruno Bros.’ expert cheesemongers.

    📍930 S. Ninth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 (locations throughout Philadelphia), 📞 215-922-2876 (or 215-665-1659 for catering), 📷 @DiBrunoBros, 🌐 dibruno.com

    Termini Brothers Bakery

    This Philly classic, established in 1923, offers an array of sweets including cannoli, cakes, sfogliatelle, and almond horns, along with roughly a dozen types of cookies. Termini’s cookie trays showcase eight varieties, such as pignoli, coconut macaroons, imbutitti, and scumetti, and can serve up to 35 people depending on the tray size. Biscotti boxes and cannoli trays are also available for those looking for more variety, or you can opt for a prepackaged cookie tin, which is available for shipping.

    📍 1523 S. Eighth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 (locations also in Packer Park Shopping Center, Reading Terminal Market, Comcast Center, and Live! Casino & Hotel), 📞 215-334-1816, 📷 @Termini_Bros, 🌐 termini.com

    View this post on Instagram

    Campo’s Deli

    Yes, Campo’s has been slinging good steaks since 1947, but the deli also has other extremely Philly party trays. The pretzel tray, for example, includes enough pretzels, Peanut Chews, whiz, and mustard to serve up to 30 people, or you can go full dessert mode with a variety platter of Tastykakes that will feed up to 25.

    📍 214 Market St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106 📞 215-923-1000, 📷 @CamposPhillyCheesesteaks, 🌐 camposdeli.com

    Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop

    If you’re going the sandwich route to feed a crowd, this South Street spot has a ton of options ranging from a cheesesteak made with shaved rib-eye and truffle whiz to a vegan-friendly falafel sandwich with roasted beets. Woodrow’s signature sandwich tray comes ready to serve 10 people and includes three sandwiches of your choice. Or, if you want it a little more DIY, grab a hot tray of meatballs, coffee barbecue brisket, or hot pork that can feed up to 25 people and have folks serve themselves.

    📍630 South St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147, 📞 215-470-3559, 📷 @WoodrowSandwich, 🌐 woodrowsandwich.com

    Isgro Pastries

    This South Philly institution, a 2024 James Beard semifinalist, has been delighting customers with specialties like cannoli, rum cake, and ricotta cookies since 1904. Among its standout party offerings is the Chip and Dip tray — but forget about tortillas. This innovative take on the traditional cannoli platter comes in two sizes, serving either 12-15 (small) or 20-25 people (large), and features crispy cannoli chips paired with chocolate cream, vanilla cream, and ricotta with dark chocolate chip dips, ensuring that soggy party cannoli are a thing of the past.

    📍 1009 Christian St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 📞 215-923-3092, 📷 @IsgroPastries, 🌐 isgropastries.com

    Indeblue

    This Cherry Hill restaurant offers an array of party tray and catering options perfect for any gathering. Choices include tandoori lollipop lamb chops, veggie or paneer shashlik, veggie samosas, fresh naan, and more. For dessert, indulge in kheer and chai or chocolate pot de crème — most options are designed to serve up to 20 people, depending on the size selected. If you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, consider grabbing a bottle of mango lassi, house-made chai, or mint lemonade, each bottle serving 15.

    📍65 Barclay Farms Shopping Center, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, 📞 856-230-4633, 📷 @Indeblue, 🌐 indebluerestaurant.com

    Manakeesh Cafe, Bakery & Grill

    This University City spot gets its name from a traditional Lebanese flatbread made with crispy dough and vegetarian or halal meats. And, of course, you can order them for a crowd topped with beef, lamb, labneh, cheese, and more. Or you can go with other savory options like beef or chicken shawarma, platters of dips like hummus and baba ghannouj, falafel, grape leaves, and more — and finish with trays of the cafe’s famous baklava; creamy, cheesy kanafe; or basboosa (a semolina cake soaked in syrup).

    📍 4420 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 📞 215-921-2135, 📷 @ManakeeshCafe, 🌐 manakeeshcafe.com

    Jezabel’s Argentine Café & Catering

    Grab a savory platter from chef Jezabel Careaga, like empanadas that run the gamut from spicy beef or chicken to ham and mozzarella or vegan-friendly lentils (they come in packs of 12 or in an assorted box of eight). Or, keep it sweet and check out Jezabel’s alfajores (a kind of Argentinian cookie sandwich filled with dulce de leche), egg custard tarts or torta de ricotta.

    📍 206-208 S. 45th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 📞 215-554-7380, 📷 @Jezabels.PHL, 🌐 jezabelsphl.com

    Corropolese Italian Bakery & Deli

    If the occasion calls for tomato pie, Corropolese is the place to go. You can grab quarter (eight slices) or full sheets (30 slices) of its famous tomato pie from any of four Pennsylvania locations, either plain or topped with add-ons like sweet peppers, fried eggplant, or pepperoni. If you want something a little more refined, the Norristown and Limerick locations offer catering options that can serve up to 24 people, with offerings like antipasto, bruschetta, prosciutto-wrapped melon, and a variety of hot hors d’oeuvres (72 hours’ notice required, pickup only).

    📍 2014 Old Arch Rd., Norristown, Pa. 19401 (locations also in Limerick and Audubon, Pa.), 📞 610-275-6664, 📷 @CorropoleseBakery, 🌐 corropolesebakery.com

    Johnny Paisano’s

    Located in Springfield, Delaware County, this beloved local establishment offers an extensive selection of “red gravy” Italian dishes, hoagies, wraps, and finger foods. À la carte platter options feature full sheets of pizza (24 slices) in more than a dozen varieties, massive strombolis (a large serves 70 slices), hoagie trays (up to 32 pieces), and appetizers like bruschetta and fried ravioli. For events feeding 50 or more people, consider the catering packages, which can simplify menu planning for you.

    📍 143 S. State Road, Springfield, Pa. 19064, 📞 610-690-0150, 📷 @JohnnyPaisanos, 🌐 johnnypaisanos.com

    Streetside BBQ

    To keep your parties a little smoky, head to Willow Grove for a bevy of BBQ platters, desserts, classic sides, and, of course, meat by the pound. Streetside has everything from baby back ribs, brisket, smoked wings, and pulled pork to prime rib, beef tenderloin, and smoked Italian sausage and leg of lamb — plus sides like half pans (serves 20 to 24 people) of baked beans, collard greens, smoked veggies, and more.

    📍 801 W. Moreland Rd., Willow Grove, Pa. 19090, 📞 215-821-7665, 📷 @Streetside_BBQ, 🌐 streetsidebarbecue.com

    Carlino’s Market

    Folks out in the western ‘burbs probably know this longtime favorite, seeing as it’s been a destination for gourmet Italian fare and ingredients for roughly 40 years now. Like its urban counterpart Di Bruno Bros., Carlino’s list of offerings is almost endless. If you’re after game-day eats, you’ll want to get quarter tomato pie with football stencil, and six-inch stadium cannoli cake, miniature football eclairs, and chocolate dipped football strawberries.

    📍 2616 E. County Line Rd., Ardmore, Pa. 19003 (and in West Chester), 📞 610-649-4046, 📷 @CarlinosMarket, 🌐 carlinosmarket.com

    Grazing Affair

    It’s all about grazing at this Medford shop, which focuses on “grazing boards” and boxes. Choose from a ton of custom-made boards and takeaway boxes with a wide variety of meats, cheeses, crackers, bread, dried fruits, veggies, nuts, olives, and dips (boards, meanwhile, come with flowers and herbs for style points, and you can even keep the pine board they come on). Or, for something unique, check out the charcuterie cones. Note: Grazing platters start at $180 and require a week’s notice.

    📍5 S. Main St., Medford, N.J., 08055, 📞 609-975-8069, 📷 @GrazingAffair, 🌐 grazingaffair.com

    Beatrice Forman contributed to this article.

    January 29, 2026
  • Sarah Test 2- Adding elements – Update on 12/10

    Sarah Test 2- Adding elements – Update on 12/10

    Heading 1

    Heading 2

    Heading 3

    Heading 4

    Heading 5
    Heading 6
    1. Social link

    This is Table

    Col1Col2Col3
    Item 1item 3item 5
    Item 2item 4item 6

    This is divider

    This is Interstitial link

    » READ MORE: The summer of Super Steve still sticks to the soul of this fan who saw greatness up close

    This is Gallery

    Image test collection

    Adding hyperlinks

    SEPTA strike is ‘imminent,’ say TWU leaders

    Its cash reserves have fallen to $208 million, while its debt stands at $1.6 billion, according to Fitch. Fitch called that “precipitously weak.” By contrast, Temple University Health System reported Wednesday that its cash reserves amounted to 218% of its debt at the end of June.

    Tower’s low cash reserves and large debt load mean that its ability to invest in its facilities is extremely limited, effectively only fixing things that break, Fitch said. Long-term, that would make it increasingly difficult to attract patients.

    [Temple University Health System reported a $64 million annual operating loss, its first since 2014] Edit info

    Fitch noted, however, that Tower had improved financial performance from April through June.

    This is image

    The Himalayan Institute, In Honesdale, Pa.
    The Himalayan Institute, In Honesdale, Pa.

    This is video

    This is Instagram

    This is Facebook

    New gallery

    South Jersey's Isabeau Levito will be skating in a show at the Penn ice rink this weekend, along with other Olympic hopefuls.
    South Jersey’s Isabeau Levito will be skating in a show at the Penn ice rink this weekend, along with other Olympic hopefuls.
    Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has maintained a 46.3 passer rating when under pressure since Week 10.
    Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has maintained a 46.3 passer rating when under pressure since Week 10.
    Exterior of Painted Bride Art Center in Philadelphia in September 2010.
    Exterior of Painted Bride Art Center in Philadelphia in September 2010.
    Remediation work continues on Ridley Creek Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, under the Route 1 overpass in Media, Delaware County, where a tanker overturned spilling thousands of gallons of home heating oil in September.
    Remediation work continues on Ridley Creek Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, under the Route 1 overpass in Media, Delaware County, where a tanker overturned spilling thousands of gallons of home heating oil in September.
    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration building in Silver Spring, Md.,
    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration building in Silver Spring, Md.,
    The obverse of the new Declaration of Independence quarter with Thomas Jefferson is shown on screen as the U.S. Mint unveils new coins for the Semiquincentennial at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia Wednesday night. The reverse features the Liberty Bell.
    The obverse of the new Declaration of Independence quarter with Thomas Jefferson is shown on screen as the U.S. Mint unveils new coins for the Semiquincentennial at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia Wednesday night. The reverse features the Liberty Bell.

    Hellossssss

    Gallery 2

    Carter Hart was on the ice Thursday at Xfinity Mobile Arena but will not start vs. Flyers.
    Carter Hart was on the ice Thursday at Xfinity Mobile Arena but will not start vs. Flyers.
    Villanova will need to lean on its defense and run game to overcome Tarleton State in the FCS quarterfinals on Saturday.
    Villanova will need to lean on its defense and run game to overcome Tarleton State in the FCS quarterfinals on Saturday.
    Flyers defenseman Cam York had a "hard practice Thursday" and seems to be getting close.
    Flyers defenseman Cam York had a “hard practice Thursday” and seems to be getting close.

    December 6, 2025
  • Shopping for a Christmas tree? Check out these 17 tree farms or tree lots around the Philly region

    Shopping for a Christmas tree? Check out these 17 tree farms or tree lots around the Philly region

    The biggest question of Christmas isn’t whether Santa Claus exists. It’s whether to display a real or a fake Christmas tree.

    Though many households in the United States have switched to artificial ones, for the purists who splurge each year on the real thing, it’s time to start shopping.

    The Philadelphia region offers a number of farms where you can cut down your own tree or find a wide selection of pre-cut varieties — including delivery.

    We’ve found farms across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, all within about an hour of Center City. And we’ve included a couple of options where you can buy a fresh-cut tree right in Philadelphia, too. Here’s where to get a real Christmas tree in the region.

    Rocky Yo-Mo of South Philadelphia, owner of Rocky YoMo’s Christmas Trees, takes a photo with Britni Volkman of South Philadelphia, with the tree she purchased in 2019.

    Philadelphia

    Rocky YoMo’s Christmas Trees

    Looking for fresh-cut Frasier firs in Philly? Check out Rocky YoMo’s selection in South Philly at Front Street and Washington Avenue. Payments are done in cash. If you don’t have a car, you can still pick a tree and get it delivered to your home for free.

    💵 Price varies, 📍1001 S. Front St, Philadelphia, Pa. 19147, ⌚Mon.-Tues., 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Wed., 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thurs., 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., 🌐 facebook.com/RockyYoMos

    Trev’s Trees

    While most people buy their Christmas trees from nearby farms, this pop-up tree seller sources them from the places they’re native to. For instance, Trev’s Trees gets its Douglas firs from places like Oregon and Pennsylvania, its Fraser firs from North Carolina, and its balsams from near Lake Erie. This means you get high-quality pre-cut trees with ease. Typical sizes cost around $120 or less, but Trev’s also offers trees reaching 13- or 14-feet tall for up to $350.

    💵 $45-$350, 📍50 E. Wynnewood Rd, Wynnewood, Pa., 19096, ⌚ Mon.-Fri., noon-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-9 p.m., 📞 609-602-1981 🌐 trevstrees.com

    The Christmas Tree Stand

    The Christmas Tree Stand is a family business known for its delivery and setup services. They specialize in premium Fraser and Douglas firs, from cozy 3-foot apartment-friendly options to grand 15-foot showstoppers. Visit the Fishtown or West Chester locations to select your perfect tree, or schedule a Christmas tree delivery on the website. Next-day delivery options are available in most areas for orders placed by 4 p.m.

    💵 $75 and up,📍Fishtown: 1727 N. Front St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19122 or 📍West Chester: 62 E. Street Rd., West Chester, Pa. 19382, ⌚ West Chester: Mon.-Fri., 1 p.m.-7 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m., or ⌚ Fishtown: Mon.-Fri., 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-8 p.m. 🌐 thechristmastreestand.com

    Bucks County

    Colavita Christmas Tree Farm

    This Yardley farm offers a dozen varieties of trees. Swing by any day of the week, before 4:30 p.m., to choose your own tree for staff to cut, or select a pre-cut option. And if you need delivery, call to schedule. The farm makes fresh wreaths daily, too.

    💵 Price varies,📍1761 Dolington Rd, Morrisville, Pa. 19067, ⌚ Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m., 📞 215-493-3563, 🌐 colavitachristmastreefarm.com

    McArdle’s Holiday Farm

    This Buckingham farm is entering its 62nd holiday season with a wide variety of trees. Visit the farm to pick a pre-cut tree or balled and burlapped tree and claim a free holiday mug while supplies last. Cut your own blue spruce, Fraser fir, white pine, or Norway spruce on the first two weekends of the season. There is also a holiday shop.

    💵 Price depends on the size,📍4316 Mechanicsville Rd, Doylestown, Pa. 18902, ⌚ Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 📞 215-794-7655, 🌐 facebook.com/mcardlesholidayfarm

    Chester County

    Clark’s Christmas Tree Farm

    An hour west of Philadelphia is Clark’s Christmas Tree Farm, a 25-acre family business offering Douglas, Canaan, and Fraser firs, pre-cut or take a wagon out to cut one yourself. Prices are based on the tree height. Once there, you can check out the 3,000-square-foot gift shop, with more than 100,000 items including decorative ornaments like bearded dragons, horseshoe crabs, and dinosaurs.

    💵 Price varies,📍351 Pusey Mill Rd, Cochranville, Pa. 19330, ⌚ Mon.-Fri., 1-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 🌐 clarkschristmastrees.com

    Marsh Creek Tree Farm

    Hop onto a wagon to the cut-your-own (saws provided) tree section of this 200-acre Chester County farm, which is open Friday through Sunday. Choose from a variety of firs, like Douglas, Frazier, and Canaan, as well as blue spruce and Norway spruce. Wreaths, decorations, and other items are available at the gift shop. Tree bailing and help loading your vehicle also offered, and pets on a leash welcome.

    💵 $12-$16 per foot,📍301 Marsh Rd, Elverson, Pa. 19520, ⌚ Fri.-Sun., 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., 📞 610-996-8733, 🌐 marshcreektree.com

    Tricolor Tree Farm

    Take a tour across 55 acres, pick your favorite pre-cut or cut-your-own tree, and warm up with free hot cocoa. At any given time, at least four varieties of trees are for sale, as well as a selection of wreaths.

    💵 $15 per foot, 📍1480 Hall Rd, West Chester, Pa. 19380, ⌚ Fri.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 📞 610-269-1034, 🌐 tricolortree.com, 🌐 facebook.com/tricolortreefarm

    Wiggins Christmas Tree Farm

    This family-owned business has two locations to cut your own tree plus a pre-cut tree lot. The West Chester farm offers Douglas firs averaging 7-feet tall, and the Cochranville location has trees up to 10-feet tall. The pre-cut lot in West Chester has Douglas and Fraser firs up to 12 feet available daily (Pre-cut lot: Mon.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.) at 1301 West Chester Pike.

    💵 $90 and up (cash only at farms), 📍2176 Gap Newport Pike, Cochranville, Pa. 19330 and📍 1257 Westtown Thornton Rd, West Chester, Pa. 19382, ⌚ Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 📞 610-344-7822, 🌐 wigginschristmastrees.com

    Sean Bond helps prepare Christmas trees for customers at Yeagers Farm in Phoenixville in 2022.

    Yeagers Farm

    Cut your own Fraser, Douglas, Nordmann, concolor, or Canaan fir, or pick out a fresh-cut Douglas or Fraser fir at this Phoenixville farm. For folks looking for family-friendly activities, hayrides run every weekend 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Santa visits between noon to 3 p.m. on select weekends. Plus, enjoy a drive ($25-$30 per vehicle) or hayride ($15 per person) through the holiday light show a mile long across the 60-acre Christmas tree farm. There are so many lights that the owners lost count at well over 100,000.

    💵 For cutting your own, $85 is the minimum to purchase ($15 per foot after that),📍1015 Pike Springs Rd, Phoenixville, Pa. 19460, ⌚ Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 📞 610-935-8244, yeagersfarm@gmail.com, 📷 @yeagersfarm, 🌐 yeagersfarm.com

    Delaware County

    Linvilla Orchards

    Linvilla returns with free family hayrides to the Christmas tree fields, where you can cut your own trees daily (Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.). Most trees are Douglas firs ranging from 5- to 8-feet tall. Offering more varieties, Linvilla’s pre-cuts are also available daily with extended hours on Dec. 5 and Dec. 12. Be sure to stop by Linvilla’s Farm Market, where you’ll find baked goods, gift baskets, and more. Make it an all-day adventure by visiting the winter makers market (Fri.-Sun., through Dec. 21) and the ice-skating rink ($13 per person). Santa will also make appearances.

    💵 Cut-your-own $119, pre-cuts start at $89,📍137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media, Pa. 19063, ⌚ Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., 📞 610-876-7116, 🌐 linvilla.com, 📷 @linvillaorchards

    Montgomery County

    Corkum Tree Farm

    Corkum Tree Farm has delighted patrons for more than 30 years. Enjoy hot cider as you take your pick of cut-your-own Douglas fir, white pine, and blue and Norway spruce trees. There are four varieties of pre-cut fir trees to select from. Inside the barn, you’ll find fresh wreaths and holly and hand-knit hats, scarves, and mittens, and fair-trade ornaments. A second farm location offers choose-and-cut trees up to 14-feet tall.

    💵 $13 per foot, $60-$200 for balled and burlapped trees,📍Main farm: 797 Bridge Rd., Collegeville, Pa. 19426, or 📍 Second farm: 3934 Mill Rd., Collegeville, Pa. 19426 ⌚ Main farm: Mon.-Tues., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 8 a.m.-6 p.m., or ⌚ Second farm: Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 📞 610-715-4640, 🌐 corkumtreefarm.com

    Hague’s Christmas Trees

    About 30 miles from Center City, Hague’s offers cut-your-own Nordmann fir, Scotch pine, white pine, Eastern red cedar, white spruce, or blue spruce trees, and a variety of pre-cut trees. (Cut-your-own ends before 4:30 p.m. each day.) Be sure to shop the award-winning handmade wreaths and check out wreath-making and tree-decorating classes in the heated barn.

    💵 Choose and cut $90-$135, pre-cut prices vary,📍755 Forty Foot Rd., Hatfield, Pa. 19440, ⌚ Mon.-Thurs., 1 p.m.-7 p.m., Fri., 1 p.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 📞 215-368-4542, 🌐 hagueschristmastrees.com

    Westlake Tree Farms

    A fourth-generation, 160-acre farm, Westlake offers pre-cut and cut-your-own Canaan or concolor firs. Afterward, check out the Christmas Barn, where families can enjoy a complimentary visit with Santa (through Dec. 7), watch trains, and browse an assortment of ornaments and gifts.

    💵 $16 per foot for pre-cuts or $12-$18 per foot for cut-your-own,📍2421 N. Hill Camp Rd., Pottstown, Pa. 19465, ⌚ Thurs.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 📞 800-564-8733, 📷 @westlaketreefarms, 🌐 westlaketreefarms.com

    Workers with Trev’s Trees unload Christmas trees from a semi truck from Oregon at a Rita’s Water Ice in Moorestown, Burlington County, in 2022.

    New Jersey

    Trev’s Trees

    The natively sourced Christmas tree sellers has five pre-cut lots not far from Philly in Blackwood, Cherry Hill, Haddon, Moorestown, and Pennsauken.

    💵 $45-$350, 📍Various locations, ⌚ Mon.-Fri., noon-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-9 p.m., 🌐 trevstrees.com

    Belly Acres Christmas Tree Farm

    You’d have to walk 13 miles to see every tree in this farm’s 16-acre field in Gloucester County. Cut your own with a provided saw or bring your own. All trees on the farm are available for purchase — all priced at $60 no matter the size. The farm strongly recommends that you arrive before 4 p.m.

    💵 $60 cash only,📍 665 Royal Ave., Franklinville, N.J. 08322, ⌚ Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 🌐 facebook.com, 🌐 bellyacresnj.com

    Exley’s Christmas Tree Farm

    Offering pre-cut and cut-your-own trees, Exley’s welcomes families to two locations for Christmas trees and holiday activities. On weekends at the Sewell farm, you can hop on a hayride to Santa Land and see holiday-themed houses. The Monroeville farm has a gingerbread house and other holiday attractions perfect for photo opportunities. Both farms feature visits with Santa on weekends.

    💵 Depends on the size,📍 1535 Tanyard Rd., Sewell, N.J. 08080 or📍1512 Monroeville Rd., Monroeville, N.J. 08343, ⌚ Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for pre-cut; Fri.-Sun. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for cut-your-own, 📞 856-468-5949, 🌐 exleyschristmastreefarms.com

    Triple Dog Dare You Christmas Tree Farm

    Pick a tree and enjoy a sleigh ride along a decorated path toward the Christmas trees at this small, family-owned farm in Gloucester County. Blue and Norway spruces and concolor and Canaan firs are available to cut yourself or get a pre-cut, with no tree more than 9 feet. Cash and Venmo only.

    💵 $80 and under,📍 101 Idle Lake Rd., Franklinville, N.J. 08322, ⌚ Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 📞 609-685-6234, 🌐 facebook.com

    This article has been updated since it was first published. Former staff writers Grace Dickinson and Jillian Wilson contributed to this article, as did Steven White.

    December 1, 2025
  • SEPTA workers authorized a strike for the fourth year in a row. Here’s when they walked off the job in the past.

    SEPTA workers authorized a strike for the fourth year in a row. Here’s when they walked off the job in the past.

    Members of the Transport Workers Union Local 234 on Sunday, Nov. 16 voted to authorize a strike if union and SEPTA negotiators can’t reach an agreement on a new contract.

    Shortly before the current contract ran out at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 7, TWU’s new president, Will Vera, urged union members to stay on the job. In an unusual move, he delayed a strike vote at the time of contract expiration, saying he had hope that a deal could be reached without the usual brinksmanship.

    “We’re asking you to please continue to come to work and put money aside. We want you to be prepared in case we have to call a work stoppage,” he told members in a video at the time.

    Local 234 leaders say they’re prioritizing a two-year deal with raises and changes to what the union views as onerous work rules, including the transit agency’s use of a third party that Vera said makes it hard for members to use their allotted sick time.

    Three TWU contracts in a row have run for one year each, all negotiated as SEPTA weathered what it has called the worst period of financial turmoil in its history.

    In a statement, SEPTA said it was aware of the authorization vote and is committed “to continue to engage in good-faith negotiations, with the goal of reaching a new agreement that is fair.”

    SEPTA unions have walked off the job at least 12 times since 1975, earning the authority a reputation as the most strike-prone big transit agency in the U.S.

    Here is what happened in previous SEPTA strikes:

    2023 Fraternal Order of Transit Police Lodge 109 (three days)

    SEPTA police officers walked off the job after bargaining with the transit agency for almost nine months, largely over the timing of a 13% pay raise for members. The agreement, partially brokered by Gov. Josh Shapiro, came amid heightened fears about safety on public transit and a funding crisis for SEPTA.

    SEPTA’s transit police union vote to ratify a new contract (from 2023)

    2016 TWU Local 234 (six days)

    TWU Local 234 walked off the job for six days; the biggest issue was retirement benefits. SEPTA’s contributions toward union members’ pensions did not rise in tandem with wages when workers made more than $50,000. Managers’ pension benefits were not capped. The union also wanted to reduce out-of-pocket health-care costs and win longer breaks for bus, trolley, and subway operators between shifts and route changes.

    SEPTA and the union reached an agreement Nov. 7, the day before the general election. Democrat Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign was worried about voter turnout, and the city sought an injunction to end the strike. It proved unnecessary.

    SEPTA deal, reached at 5 a.m., will raise wages and health contributions (from November 2016)

    2009: TWU Local 234 (six days)

    Talk about leverage. TWU was ready to strike just before the first home game of the World Series between the Phillies and the New York Yankees. Gov. Ed Rendell pushed the two sides to continue talking, and the transit workers waited to walk out until three hours after the end of Game 5, the last in the series played at Citizens Bank Park.

    It was a bitter strike, coming just a year after the stock market’s meltdown started the Great Recession. TWULocal 234 President Willie Brown called himself “the most hated man” in Philadelphia. Mayor Michael Nutter was harshly critical. Brown called him “Little Caesar.”

    The strike was settled Nov. 7 with a deal on a five-year contract. Transit workers got a $1,250 bonus, a 2.5% raise in the second year, a graduated increase in SEPTA pension contributions from 2% to 3.5%, and the maximum pension benefit was raised to $30,000 from $27,000.

    2005: TWU Local 234 and United Transportation Union Local 1594 (seven days)

    Two unions walked off the job on Halloween, halting most bus, subway, and trolley service in Philadelphia and its Pennsylvania suburbs.

    Negotiations collapsed mostly over SEPTA’s insistence that workers pay 5% of medical insurance premiums. At that point, the authority paid 100% of the workers’ premiums for family coverage.

    In the end, it was solved by Gov. Rendell, a Democrat who had been Philadelphia mayor in the 1990s. He agreed to give promised state money to SEPTA early, so it could pay premiums in advance, reducing its costs.

    In the resulting four-year deal, the unions had to pay for 1% of their medical premiums. They also received 3% yearly raises.

    Pedestrians and cars in a chaotic dance at the intersection of Market and 30th Streets during the afternoon commute on the first day of the SEPTA city workers’ strike Nov. 1, 2016.

    1998: TWU Local 234 (40 days)

    City transit workers’ contract expired in March, but they did not strike until June — and then stayed out for 40 days. The two sides reached an agreement in July, but it fell apart. TWU members had returned to their jobs and kept working under an extension of their old contract. A final agreement was signed Oct. 23.

    The union agreed to SEPTA’s demand that injured-on-duty benefits be limited. The old contract gave them full pay and benefits while on leave after a work injury. SEPTA wanted to hire an unlimited number of part-time workers. The union agreed to 100 part-timers to drive small buses.

    SEPTA’s chief negotiator was David L. Cohen, famous for reining in unions representing city workers during Philadelphia’s bankruptcy in 1992, as Rendell’s mayoral chief of staff.

    What you need to know about a possible SEPTA strike

    1995: Local 234 TWU (14 days)

    A two-week strike stilled city buses, trolleys and subways until an agreement was reached April 10. Transit workers would get 3% raises per year over the three-year span of the new contract, as well as increases in pension benefits and sick pay.

    The union agreed to several cost-reduction measures, including a restructuring of SEPTA’s workers compensation policies.

    Mayor Ed Rendell, a villain to many in labor for winning givebacks from city unions in 1992, pushed SEPTA to offer more generous terms to TWU than it had initially. Cohen, who was his chief of staff, crunched the numbers to make it work. Three years later, out of the city administration and working as a lawyer, he was hired as SEPTA’s chief negotiator.

    1986: TWU Local 234 (four days) and UTU Local 1594 (61 days)

    When TWU struck the city transit division in March 1986 over a variety of economic issues and work rules, some bus drivers pulled over mid-route and told passengers to dismount, The Inquirer reported.

    Members were particularly incensed at what they considered SEPTA’s draconian disciplinary procedures. Union leaders said the issue was a basic lack of respect. The strike was settled in four days.

    Drivers for 23 suburban bus routes, two trolley lines in Delaware County and the Norristown High-Speed Line — all members of the United Transportation Union — struck for just over two months, affecting about 30,000 passengers a day.

    Employees in what was then known as SEPTA’s Red Arrow Division — after the private transit company that used to own the routes and lines — made considerably less than their city counterparts and had weaker pension benefits. They won raises and pension changes that brought them closer to parity.

    1983: Regional Rail (108 days)

    Thirteen separate unions walked off the job on the commuter rail lines that SEPTA had taken over at the beginning of the year from Conrail, successor to the bankrupt Pennsylvania and Reading Railroads.

    In addition to wages, a key issue was SEPTA’s demand that union train conductors accept pay cuts. The authority had already cut the number of those workers by more than half.

    Eventually SEPTA reached deals with a dozen of the unions. The 13th local, which represented 44 railroad signalmen, held out longer. Main issue: Whether SEPTA had the right to contract with outside firms for some types of signal work.

    The Regional Rail strike remains SEPTA’s longest work stoppage since 1975.

    SEPTA transit workers vote to authorize a strike if needed
    Joyce Woodford (center), a 25-year veteran cashier on SEPTA’s Broad Street Line, serves up fried fish for her fellow striking cashiers outside the Fern Rock Transportation Center during dinnertime on the third day of the SEPTA strike in 2016.

    1982: TWU Local 234 (34 days)

    About 36 suburban bus drivers and mechanics operating routes primarily in Montgomery County, and some routes in Bucks, won an 8.5% wage increase over three years.

    The bus routes were the descendants of the Schuylkill Valley Lines and the Trenton-Philadelphia Coach Lines, which SEPTA acquired in 1976 and 1983, respectively. Service has grown, and the collection of bus routes is known as the Frontier Division today.

    1981: TWU Local 234 (19 days) and UTU Local 1594 (46 days)

    Transit workers shut down buses, trolleys and subways in the city on March 15, seeking job security in the form of a no-layoff clause, wage increases and a bar on SEPTA hiring part-time workers.

    And the Red Arrow division went out for 46 days seeking higher wages and better medical benefits. SEPTA also backed down a demand for permission to hire private contractors for some work on the suburban buses, trolleys, and the Norristown High Speed Line.

    1977: TWU Local 234 (44 days)

    After a bitter strike, union members who run the city transit division got higher wages and more benefits, after rejecting an arbitrator’s proposed contract that was portrayed in news reports as generous.

    A furious Mayor Frank Rizzo told reporters the strike “can last 10 years for all I care.” He said of the union’s rejection of the earlier offer: “It is outrageous, and I hope the people won’t forget it.”

    1975: TWU Local 234 (11 days)

    Transit workers, concerned about the ravages of inflation, wanted a clause giving them cost-of-living increases and enhancements to health-care benefits. Those were granted after Rizzo agreed to add $7.5 million to the city’s annual SEPTA contribution. Perhaps that’s one reason the mayor was so annoyed two years later.

    Staff writer Erica Palan contributed to this article.

    November 17, 2025
  • Where to find Diwali sweets in Philadelphia to celebrate the Festival of Lights

    Where to find Diwali sweets in Philadelphia to celebrate the Festival of Lights

    There’s joyous chaos inside Indian markets on Diwali — and mithai (sweets) are at the center of it. The Festival of Lights, significant for people of Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and Buddhist faiths, falls on Monday, Oct. 20. Like clockwork, laddoos, gajar ka halwa, burfi, gulab jamun, and more, have begun to fill display cases with the vibrant, colorful sweets (made with dairy, sugar, and nuts) beckoning guests to pack two or three boxes for their loved ones.

    There’s gajar ka halwa, a carrot-based treat studded with nuts; and gulab jamun, made sweet with rose water syrup and sometimes coated in coconut. Kulfi is a traditional creamy no-churn ice cream, similar to frozen custard with a distinct taste of the fruits and nuts it’s flavored with. Then you have creamy, milk-based mithai like burfi, ras malai, kalakand, and cham cham. And you can’t forget about laddoos, rava kesari or suji ka halwa — nutty, semolina-based sweets.

    Whether you’re gifting or feasting by yourself, here are a handful of Philly spots to get your mithai in time for Diwali.

    Diwali shines bright with family, tradition, and sweets
    Gulab jamun and gajar ka halwa on a plate.
    Find gulab jamun, gajar ka halwa, and more at local Indian grocery stores.

    International Foods & Spices

    Diwali is big at the store near Penn’s campus.

    “Mithai is the go-to gift to bring to people or celebrate with,” said owner Paramjit Singh.

    There’s fresh, frozen, and canned mithai offered at the shop. Packaged boxes sit in the front. Canned are stacked on shelves, and frozen packages from India and Canada are in the refrigerators in the back.

    Singh has a variety of options for the area’smany students and price-conscious customers. But he noted that prices of mithai have increased as well as the cost to ship boxes from India.

    Find boxes of bundi and motichoor laddoo, gulab jamun, badam and kaju burfi, kalakand, and a variety of Bengali sweets in the fresh market up front.

    📍4203 Walnut St., 📞 215-222-4480, 🌐 facebook.com/intlfoodsandspices, 🕑 Wednesday to Monday 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    Subzi Mundi

    With the Philadelphia Sikh Society nearby, this Upper Darby store is bustling with energy on Diwali morning, said co-owner Mohinder Pal.

    “Mithai is a favorite, everybody likes it,” he said.

    Walk up to the refrigerators next to the cashier station and pick from a variety of boxed mithai. There’s gajar ka halwa, laddoos, assorted cham cham, coconut and regular gulab jamun, and more. Frozen mithai is also available.

    📍6700 Market St., Upper Darby, 📞 610-352-3400, 🌐 facebook.com/sabjimandi, 🕑 Monday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    A traditional Indian Ice Cream (Malal Kulfi) topped with poached blueberries and creme-de-cassis, at Veda in Philadelphia, Pa., on Thursday, May 25, 2023.

    Veda

    Inside this modern bistro in Rittenhouse Square, order kulfi topped with poached blueberries. The dessert is sweetened with sugar that’s added as the milk is reduced in a flat pan. It’s frozen with crushed cardamom seeds mixed in that bring an inviting texture to the kulfi. Enjoy for $7 at Veda. (The dessert is also offered at Bhasin’s four other restaurants: Indiya in Collingswood, Coriander in Voorhees, and Naan in Moorestown).

    📍 1920 Chestnut St., 📞 267-519-2001, 🌐 vedaphilly.com, 🕒 Daily, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (lunch) and 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. (dinner), till 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

    Patel’s Grocery Store

    Grab one-pound boxes of laddoo, kalakand, gulab jamun, and besan burfi at this Mayfair grocery store. There are also frozen options.

    📍1907 Street Road, Bensalem, Pa. 19020, 📞 215-447-8154, 🕑 Monday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    Kabobeesh

    On Chestnut Street, you’ll find freshly made gulab jamun, gajar ka halwa, and ras malai. Step into the restaurant and you’ll see the tub of brown spheres soaking in a sugary bath in the display case. That’s gulab jamun. The ras malai is milky, soft, and sweet. The gajar ka halwa is creamy, filled with carrots and perfectly nutty — it’s a specialty item for the fall and winter season.

    “Ras malai is really the selling item,” said owner Asad Ghuman. “We get catering orders and families coming in to the restaurant (for food and sweets).”

    📍4201 Chestnut St., 📞 215-222-8081, 🌐 kabobeesh.com, 🕑 Monday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday 11 a.m. to midnight.

    Creamy, luscious kulfi is a childhood favorite for South Asian chefs in the Philly area

    Desi Chaat House

    If you’re in West Philly, small boxes of gulab jamun, gajar ka halwa, and orange sticky, sweet jalebi wait for you. Kheer or rice pudding, and ras malai are also available.

    📍501 S 42nd St., 📞 215-386-1999, 🌐 desichaathousephilly.com, 🕑 Monday to Sunday noon to 9 p.m.

    Wah-Gi-Wah

    Wah-Gi-Wah in University City is a big fan of Crown Kulfi. Restaurant manager Muhammad Khan said they previously served housemade kulfi but switched to the premade brand. “[The brand] is very famous over here in Philadelphia,” he said. Enjoy chocolate, coconut, almond, pistachio, mango, and malai as frozen pops ($3) or in cups ($4.50).

    📍 4447 Chestnut St., 📞 215-921-5597, 🌐 wahgiwah.com, 🕒 Daily, noon to 9:30 p.m.

    Amma’s South Indian Cuisine

    Laddoos, gulab jamun, semiya payasam or vermicelli pudding, ras malai, and rava kesari or suji ka halwa are all on the menu at Amma’s in Center City.

    📍1518 Chestnut St., 📞 808-762-6627, 🌐 ammasrestaurants.com, 🕑 Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. to 9:45 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 8:45 p.m.

    October 21, 2025
  • Stay cool Philly: Find your nearest cooling center during the intense heat

    Stay cool Philly: Find your nearest cooling center during the intense heat

    As temperatures rise across the Philadelphia area, local communities are finding ways to beat the heat.

    To keep people cool en masse during citywide heat emergencies, the city turns to go-to resources it already has: libraries, recreation centers, senior centers, and public pools. Some of these spaces become official cooling centers when a heat emergency is declared.

    The city is more likely to declare an emergency in May and June than in July and August because people are more acclimated to the heat in the hotter months. Early in the season, the city will declare an emergency if the temperature is expected to reach 101 degrees or higher for two consecutive days, or 98 degrees or higher for three consecutive days. Later in the season, a heat emergency is triggered if the forecast predicts 106 degrees or higher for two consecutive days, or 103 degrees or higher for three consecutive days.

    Philadelphia provides a map showing residents where they can find relief from rising temperatures, and the following locations are available across the region to keep individuals safe from the heat:

    Libraries

    Philadelphia libraries offer a place to cool off. The following locations serve as cooling centers during heat emergencies, but other locations can be found here.

    • Fumo Family Library: 📍2437 S. Broad St., 📞 215-685-1758, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Joseph E. Coleman Regional Library: 📍 68 W. Chelten Ave., 📞 215-685-2150, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Lillian Marrero Library: 📍 601 W. Lehigh Ave., 📞 215-685-9794, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Logan Library: 📍1333 Wagner Ave., 📞 215-685-9156, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Oak Lane Library: 📍 6614 N. 12th St., 📞 215-685-2848, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Lovett Memorial Library: 📍6945 Germantown Ave., 📞 215-685-2095, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Northeast Regional Library: 📍2228 Cottman Ave., 📞 215-685-0522 (closed until June 28), ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Widener Library:📍2808 W. Lehigh Ave., 📞 215-685-9799, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Cecil. B Moore Library: 📍2320 Cecil B. Moore Ave., 📞 215-685-2766, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Romanita G. de Rodriguez Library: 📍600 W. Girard Ave., 📞 215-686-1768, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Lucien E. Blackwell Regional Library: 📍125 S. 52nd St., 📞 215-685-7431, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Haverford Library: 📍5543 Haverford Ave., 📞 215-685-1964, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Walnut Street West Library: 📍201 S. 40th St., 📞 215-685-7671, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies
    • Charles Santore Library: 📍932 S. Seventh St., 📞 215-686-1766, ⌚ Open until 7 p.m. during heat emergencies

    Recreation centers

    Philadelphia’s over 150 recreation centers are open daily for youth programming, summer camps, pools, playgrounds, and more. The following locations are official cooling centers:

    • East Passyunk Recreation Center: 📍1025 Mifflin St., 📞 215-685-0008, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Barry Recreation Center: 📍1800 Johnston St., 📞 215-685-1886, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Smith Recreation Center: 📍2100 S. 26th St., 📞 215-685-1898, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Christy Recreation Center: 📍738 S. 55th St. 📞 215-685-1997, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Sayre Recreation Center: 📍5835 Spruce St., 📞 215-685-1993, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • West Mill Creek Recreation Center: 📍5100 Parrish St., 📞 215-685-0186, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • 8th & Diamond Playground: 📍800 Diamond St., 📞 215-685-2761, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Penrose Memorial Playground: 📍1101 W. Susquehanna Ave., 📞 215-685-2711, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Dendy Recreation Center: 📍1555 N. 10th St., 📞 215-685-2763, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • MLK Recreation Center: 📍2101 Cecil B. Moore Ave., 📞 215-685-2733, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Mander Playground: 📍2140 N. 33rd St., 📞 215-685-3894, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Nelson Recreation Center: 📍2500 N. Third St., 📞 215-685-9890, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Waterloo Playground: 📍2501 N. Howard St., 📞 215-685-9891, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Scanlon Playground: 📍1099 E. Venango St., 📞 215-685-9893, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Pleasant Playground: 📍6757 Chew Ave., 📞 N/A, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Lonnie Young Recreation Center: 📍1100 E. Chelten Ave., 📞 215-685-2236, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • Stenton Park Recreation Center: 📍4600 N. 16th St., 📞 215-685-9147, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
    • McCreesh Playground Recreation Center: 📍6744 Regent St., 📞 215-685-2696, ⌚ 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    Senior centers

    Philadelphia’s 28 senior centers are open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The following locations are designated cooling centers:

    • Northeast Older Adult Center: 📍8101 Bustleton Ave., 📞 215-685-0576, ⌚ 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-F)
    • Martin Luther King Older Adult Center: 📍2100 Cecil B. Moore Ave., 📞 215-685-2715, ⌚ 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-F)
    • South Philadelphia Older Adult Center: 📍1430 East Passyunk Ave., 📞 215-685-1697, ⌚ 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-F)
    • Juniata Park Older Adult Center: 📍1251 E. Sedgley Ave., 📞 215-685-1491, ⌚ 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-F)
    • West Oak Lane Senior Center: 📍7210-18 Ogontz Ave., 📞 215-685-3515, ⌚ 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-F)
    Families out enjoying the pool to cool off from the heat at Hunting Park Pool in Philadelphia.

    Philadelphia public pools and spraygrounds

    To cool off for free this summer, visit one of the more than 100 public pools or spraygrounds throughout the city. Spraygrounds in more than 90 locations started operating Memorial Day Weekend, while the city’s pools have begun opening on a rolling basis.

    To find your closest sprayground, see this map or call 311.

    June 18, 2025
1 2
Next Page→

Philadelphia local news, sports, jobs, cars, homes

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress