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🌱 Spring in Philly guide
🎭 Philly’s comedy scene
🎤 Philly Record Store Guide
⚽ Billy Penn’s FIFA World Cup Guide
🛍️ Thrifty in Philly guide
📚 Book lovers’ guide to Philly
🍹 Non-alcoholic Philly
😋 Dining in Philly
🏃🏽 Philly Runners Guide
NOTE: This list will be updated throughout the week.
Monday, May 11
Budget 101: Center City – (5:30 to 7:30 p.m.)
Join People’s Budget Office and Neighbors Across Market (NAM) for a Budget 101 Workshop, where you’ll explore the basics of the city budget, understand how the budgeting process works, and discuss your community’s priorities. At Arch Street United Methodist at 55 N. Broad Street.
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World – A Live Reading – (7 to 9 p.m.)
“Bread makes you fat?! You know what doesn’t make you fat? A Theatre Contra Live Reading, that’s what! We’ve got 7 evil exes to defeat while avoiding a stalker, confusing roommate, and our sister. So grab those coins, whip out a warhammer, and get ready to witness SCOTT PILGRIM VS. THE WORLD live at Tattooed Mom!” Pay-what-you-can at the door; first-come-first-served.
Tuesday, May 12
No Arena Open Mic Night – (5 to 7:30 p.m.)
Come read or sing or perform something from your heart, inspired by the No Arena movement. Didn’t get to speak your testimony at city council? Read it at the open mic! Wrote a poem about how people can overcome billionaires? Bring it to the “podium”! The No Arena Open Mic Night is a night to uplift the voices of so many people who were impacted by this powerful struggle. Sign up to be added to the list! Light refreshments from Chinatown will be provided. Free to attend. At Asian Arts Initiative.
Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story – Official Premiere and Panel Discussion – (6 p.m.)
This film explores the founding of the U.S. through the lens of Philadelphia, America’s first capital. From Indigenous people and enslaved Africans to lawmakers and artisans, the film, from Bear House Media, reveals how diverse communities shaped a new nation. Though rooted in Philadelphia, this is a shared American story whose debates, ideals, and consequences still resonate today. Please join WHYY for a screening of the film, followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers and hosted by Cherri Gregg – the co-host of WHYY’s Studio 2. At the Philadelphia Film Society Center at 1412 Chestnut Street. Free ticket registration.
The Moth Storyslam: I Got It From My Mama – (7:30 p.m.)
Punch Line Philly hosts this storytelling slam on a theme. $22.05 tickets plus 2 beverage minimum. Ages 21+.
Dancing With The Stars: Live! – 2026 Tour – (7:30 p.m.)
Tickets are $66+ at the Met Philly for this national tour of the popular ABC reality dance show.
Wednesday, May 13
Prevention Point Philadelphia Women’s Health Fair – (12 to 3 p.m.)
An afternoon highlighting services at PPP and organizations across Philadelphia with resources for health, wellness, hygiene, & beauty. Refreshments provided. At the Love Lot, 2910 Ruth St. (next to PPP’s main building).
Bridging Blocks | Democracy in the United States: 250 Years in the Making – (5:30 to 7 p.m.)
Have we evolved as a nation? Is democracy still the most effective form of governance? How do you think this 3,000-year-old concept can evolve to meet the needs of modern society? Join WHYY News Community & Engagement team for Bridging Blocks, a civic dialogue series in partnership with The Free Library of Philadelphia. At Kennett Library in Kennett Square, Pa.
Dying on the Inside: Women Impacted – (6 to 8 p.m.)
A panel discussing the intersection of incarceration, aging and health with the women impacted. The Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting’s newest investigative podcast series, Dying on the Inside: Women Lifers at Muncy Prison, shines a light on the growing crisis of aging and dying in America’s prisons. What happens to women aging in a system never meant to support them? Hosted by Cherri Gregg, WHYY Studio 2, co-executive producer and host of the podcast. Free, but RSVP required.
Chef Jet Tila’s New Era of Flavor Dinner – (7:30 to 10 p.m.)
Iron Chef and Food Network star Chef Jet Tila is bringing bold, authentic flavors and signature dishes to Luk Fu Philly. This event features a family-style dinner and a chance to meet Chef Jet Tila. $69.88 per person.
Thursday, May 14
2nd Thursday gallery night – (5 to 8 p.m.)
Every 2nd Thursday of the month, The Resource Exchange is open late for after-hours access to their shop and gallery, plus rotating events & activities. Free.
Windows to the Past: A Conversation on Historic Glass and Millwork – (5:30 to 7 p.m.)
Join Carpenters’ Company member and architect Timothy Kerner and master builder Brent Hull for a conversation about historic glass, the windows in Carpenters’ Hall, and historic millwork. A light reception will be held prior to the discussion. $15 tickets.
West Philly Orchestra at Pop-Ups at the Portal – (5:30 p.m.)
WPO is an avant village folk brass band performing since 2006. West Philadelphia Orchestra found inspiration in the Romani brass “orkestars” and “fanfares” of Eastern Europe. Free to attend.
Friday, May 15
Philly Under $50 – (2 to 7 p.m.)
40+ vendors with vintage (read: Y2K-era) and handmade goods at the Bok building. Includes $5/$10 bins, jewelry, a trans thrift booth and more.
Remember the Ladies: After-Hours Tour – (5 to 6 p.m.)
Every Friday evening in May: Join this intimate look at the lives and legacies of the remarkable women laid to rest at Christ Church Burial Ground. You’ll meet trailblazers like Julia Stockton Rush, Sarah Franklin Bache — women whose courage and contributions helped shape Philadelphia and the nation. $12.51 tickets.
The Philly Killer – Investigating an Outbreak: A Conversation with The Pulse at WHYY – (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
You are invited to an in-depth conversation at the Mütter Museum on how a disease outbreak crippled Philly 50 years ago. WHYY Host Maiken Scott leads the conversation on “The Philly Killer: Investigating an Outbreak with The Pulse at WHYY.” The gathering includes a preview to a new exhibition and a discussion exploring how Legionnaires disease spread across Philadelphia during the summer of 1976. $10 tickets.
East Kensington Spring Fest – (6:30 to ?)
Fire Museum Presents this spring festival complete with a Togolese dance party, night market Kenzo Flea, Kaiju Thunderdome and more! Free to attend.
Saturday, May 16
West Philly Bizarre Vintage & Antique Market – (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Vendors take over the sidewalk for an incredible extension of the Phila Flea Market at 34th and Lancaster Ave. Rain date Sunday.
Fishtown Sidewalk Sale – (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Residents set up outside their homes, businesses join the fun with outdoor sales and specials, and there’s a convenient map to navigate all the treasure! Rain date Sunday.
Lower Moyamensing 2026 Spring Flea Market – (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Now held on its rain date! At South Philly High School. Free to attend.
Historic Crafts and Trades Fair – (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Two-day fair in front of historic Carpenters’ Hall, featuring live demonstrations from local tradespeople and students. On Saturday, meet apprentice carpenters from the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers and masons. Free RSVP.
South 9th Street Italian Market Festival – (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
One of Philadelphia’s most popular events and attracts visitors from all over the city and beyond. For seven city blocks, the 2026 Festival will be a celebration of culture, gastronomy, art and music. Featuring 100+ area vendors showcasing a range of cuisine and beverages. Sample and purchase culinary delights. In addition to the food, the Festival will feature a wide range of music, services, souvenirs, jewelry, artists, and crafters. And, of course, the infamous greased pole climbing contest! FREE/Pay-as-you-go.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Festival @ FDR Park’s Southeast Asian Market – (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Free admission, live entertainment, delicious cuisines, arts and crafts.
Girard Avenue Street Festival – (11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
Join neighbors on West Girard Avenue, between College Avenue and 29th Street, for the best of Brewerytown, Francisville, Spring Garden and Fairmount — 100+ vendors, a kids zone with activities and games for families, live music from local bands, and neighborhood food businesses serving the best bites of Brewerytown! FREE.
East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention 2026 – (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
Free comics convention feat. workshops, panels, cosplay, and an all-day marketplace, hosted at Temple University’s Student Faculty Center. Meet creators, fans, and industry professionals for an unforgettable experience centered on stories made by, for, and about people of African descent. Plus, an AfriCoz Costume Contest for fans of all ages. FREE.
EcoFair 2026 – (12 to 4 p.m.)
Meet sustainably-minded neighbors, support local makers, and leave with ideas you can actually use at Green Philly’s 3rd annual EcoFair at Cherry Street Pier. Recycle used batteries and clothes, screenprint an upcycled t-shirt or tote, repair your clothing, and explore the Kids Discovery Zone. Plus mobility and fitness classes, Elmwood Park Zoo animal visits, Community Paint Day with Walls for Justice and more. Free/Pay-What-You-Want.
The Ave Flea Market & A Taste of Philly Food Truck Fest – (12 to 5 p.m.)
A delicious celebration of our amazing local food entrepreneurs and small businesses in West Philadelphia. At the Lawn @UCity, 3701 Filbert Street.
reFlea Vendor Market – (12 to 5 p.m.)
A vendor market by Resource Exchange showcasing local remakers, vintage & secondhand refurbishers, and DIY creatives. Green your shopping experience! Followed by drinks and rounds of Eco-Quizzo from 4 to 7 p.m. At 1800 N. American Street.
Philly Wine Fest! Spring Edition – (12 to 6:30 p.m.)
Specially curated wineries serve patrons tastings over a multi-session vino experience. At the Philadelphia Zoo. $68 to $79 tickets.
Voices of the Neighborhood: BGE Poetry & Public Art Workshop – (1 to 3 p.m.)
Become a co‑creator of “Afro-Sankofa / In Flight”, a new public artwork by Gary L. Moore at the Broad, Germantown, and Erie triangle. This community poetry workshop offers a rare opportunity for residents to help shape the language that will be incorporated into 3 coordinated pieces featuring mosaic planters, mosaic bench seating, and an iconic metal sculpture inspired by the Sankofa and the stories of Nicetown‑Tioga. Participants will craft poetry rooted in the neighborhood’s history, memories, and future. Selected words and phrases will be physically embedded into the final artwork, ensuring the community’s voice is preserved for generations. Lunch will be served. RSVP online.
“THE STREETS ARE TALKING” Germantown Public Art Tour – (2 to 4 p.m.)
Join this intimate walking tour, exploring a selection of Germantown’s newest public art as well as the poetry & stories behind them. Led by guides Stephanie Cole, Karl Blau, and Miles Butler — the team behind last year’s beloved Poetry Arts Community Trail. On this guided tour, you won’t just see the installations – you’ll hear the stories & poetry behind them. Healing Verse Germantown: The Streets Are Talking transformed poems written by Germantown residents into 19 works of temporary public art spread across the neighborhood — from a stained glass panel on a SEPTA bus shelter to AR constellations, collage poster series, video installations, interactive floral offerings, and more. FREE RSVP.
Eurovision 2026 Watch and Dance Party – (3 to 11:45 p.m.)
Doors open at 2:30 p.m. at the German Society of Pennsylvania (611 Spring Garden Street), the show starts at 3 p.m., and the dance party starts at 7 p.m. $20 ticket includes food. Gather with fellow fans of the “Olympics of Pop,” an over-the-top spectacle of talent, glam, and glitter that is the beloved international song contest.
AAI Spring Gala 2026 – (6 to 9 p.m.)
An evening of delicious food, incredible live performances, and awards honoring the continuum of creative leadership in Philadelphia’s vibrant Chinatown and beyond. Curated dinner by Chef Elijah Milligan will showcase his new ambitious restaurant’s, Lovechild, global fusion and wood-fired flavors ahead of its grand opening. Signature cocktail via Kampar + VIP cocktail reception by Chef Kurt Evans of Black Dragon Takeout. Silent Online Auction is live now. $215.26 per person.
Sunday, May 17
Historic Crafts and Trades Fair – (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Two-day fair in front of historic Carpenters’ Hall, featuring live demonstrations from local tradespeople and students. On Sunday, meet blacksmiths from Holzman Iron Studio, glass blowing from Jim Loewer Glass Co., and historic window repair by preservation carpenter Brent Hull. Free RSVP.
South 9th Street Italian Market Festival – (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
One of Philadelphia’s most popular events and attracts visitors from all over the city and beyond. For seven city blocks, the 2026 Festival will be a celebration of culture, gastronomy, art and music. Featuring 100+ area vendors showcasing a range of cuisine and beverages. Sample and purchase culinary delights. In addition to the food, the Festival will feature a wide range of music, services, souvenirs, jewelry, artists, and crafters. And, of course, the infamous greased pole climbing contest! FREE/Pay-as-you-go.
Traditional Indonesian (Faux) Wedding – (5 p.m.)
Fleisher Art Memorial and Pemuda Gapura host Sunda and Pamona’s epic (faux) wedding celebration that will immerse guests in culture, food and a dance party. Dust off your best cultural attire (or rock that outfit you’ve been saving) and get ready to party for a purpose! $27.50 tickets.
ANDRÉS CISNEROS’ Philly Cancionero – (6 to 7:30 p.m.)
Culminating Public Engagement Week, this live music performance celebrates solidarity in our community, as composer and musician Andrés Cisneros blends Afro-Caribbean traditions with contemporary urban sound, transforming audience stories into live, improvised musical compositions we will dance to together. Presented as part of the Painted Bride Project Space’s Proof of Life Artist Residency. Free. At 4029 Cambridge Street.
Get Tickets Early
Thursday, May 21: People You Should Know: Philadelphia’s Sports Economy
WHYY is partnering with the Center City Business Association for an informed discussion with area sports executives from 8 to 10 a.m. at WHYY, 150 N. 6th Street. Enter promo code “WHYY30″ to receive a $30 off discount from the $75 admission!
Through June 9
Healing Verse Germantown: The Streets Are Talking, Launch Celebration – (2 to 5 p.m.)
The exhibition features 19 public art poems by Germantown community members about healing from the impacts of gun violence. Celebrate these poets with remarks, food, poetry activations, guided tours, and community. At the Friends Free Library (5418 Germantown Ave) and Ubuntu Fine Art (5423 Germantown Ave), directly across the street from each other. Art includes a collage poster series, video installations, augmented reality constellations, interactive floral offerings, a stained glass panel installation on a SEPTA bus shelter, a wrapped SEPTA bus, and more.
Through July 11
El Mercado Cultural at Cherry Street Pier – (11 a.m. to 5 p.m)
A series of spring and summer markets presented in collaboration with Fleisher Art Memorial. Shop from vendors, savor tasty bites, and enjoy the rotating entertainment. Occasional Saturdays: April 18, May 30 and July 11.
No Arena: Making a Movement – (2 to 6 p.m.)
On the occasion of America’s 250th Anniversary, “No Arena: Making A Movement” highlights a decentralized grassroots movement that was led by people of color, serving as a model for what our democracy can be. Interactive with events programming through July. Gallery is open Thursdays through Saturdays.
