#BILLYPENNGRAM OF THE DAY
The road most traveled by
(Photo by @josephiyoob)
A car parade of light: Philly’s Hanukkah tradition shines bright after recent tragedy
Independence Mall became a gathering place and a source of light for Philadelphia’s Jewish community on Saturday night. Cars moved in a caravan with neon menorahs lit on their roofs, music played, families danced together, and a crowd gathered in front of a massive menorah, marking the seventh night of Hanukkah in the city.
Coming a week after an attack on a Hanukkah ceremony in Australia left 15 dead, many were heartened to be together. “The message of Hanukkah is the message of light over darkness, that we have to be strong, and we have to be together,” said Rabbi Menachem Schmidt, executive director of Jewish Heritage Programs. Continue reading …
The War On Drugs celebrates ‘A Drugcember To Remember’ with guest stars to aid Philly public schools
In the spirit of the holiday season, Philadelphia-based rockers The War On Drugs performed intimate shows at Johnny Brenda’s for what was certainly “A Drugcember To Remember.”
The band’s homecoming shows at the 250-capacity venue in the city’s Fishtown neighborhood connected the band to its diehard fans, and served as a fundraiser for the school district. Continue reading …
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• Twice-weekly trash collection comes to North Philly in January. Here’s what to know. [WHYY]
• Despite threats, President’s House Site remains unchanged as it hits a milestone — its 15th anniversary. [Inq$$]
• Philly City Council made changes for renters, homeowners and developers in 2025 that addressed housing issues. [WHYY’s PlanPhilly]
• Grammy-nominated producer Will Yip opens a new recording studio in Philly, “the capital for indie rock.” [PhillyVoice]
• SEPTA opened a pop-up store at Market Street HQ to sell logo merchandise, which is moving quickly. [WHYY]
• The Washington Commanders — and their radio crew — got bent out of shape after the Eagles went for two points late in a win Saturday. [Crossing Broad]
MAYOR WATCH
The Mayor and other officials will share details on how Philadelphians and visitors can celebrate the official kickoff of the nation’s 250th anniversary, including the first-ever New Year’s Eve Concert and Fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, at City Hall. (10 a.m.)
ON THE CALENDAR
🛍️ Philly-themed gifts: Where to shop
🏃🏽 Philly Runners Guide
🎞️ Ongoing: The Declaration’s Journey — Available on the WHYY YouTube Channel. New episodes will appear every two weeks.
Tuesday, Dec. 23: Keepers of the Culture | Kwanzaa Storytelling
Learn all about Kwanzaa from Keepers of the Culture, Philadelphia’s Afrocentrentric storytelling group, who share stories that inform, educate and enrich while celebrating the African-American oral tradition. For all ages. At Coleman NW Regional Library. (3:30 p.m.)
Tuesday, Dec. 23: Wigilia Dinner at Little Walter’s
A traditional Polish Christmas Even feast, celebrated with Philly’s Polish chefs. $100 tickets. (5 and 8 p.m. seatings)
Sunday, Dec. 28: Kwanzaa at the Please Touch Museum
Families can create a painting of a Kwanzaa table, join “edutainer” Mister Boom Boom in the theater for interactive programs focused on rhythm, culture and creativity with his African drum circle, or build a pinhole camera and more! Cap it off with a parade. $24 admission. (10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Super Hero Spectacular: A New Year’s Family Party
Plan ahead for rain or shine at Cherry Street Pier, grab a $27 ticket (free for kids 2 and under) for views of the 6 p.m. fireworks on the waterfront, activities, crafts and music, giveaways, and a cash bar. (5 to 7 p.m.)
