#BILLYPENNGRAM OF THE DAY
Twin peak jawn
(Photo by @picturedelphia_)
New Year’s Eve events — fireworks and LL Cool J — will launch a supercharged 2026
The year 2026 is almost here, and Philadelphia’s New Year’s Eve festivities next week will set the stage for a banner year, starting with a first-ever New Year’s concert, featuring LL Cool J, and the biggest holiday fireworks shows, plural, ever. The city shared its plans Monday. Continue reading …
Billy Penn’s biggest food stories of 2025
Billy Penn is counting down the stories that shaped 2025. Today, we’re talking food. From new restaurant openings, to innovations in the delivery scene, to notable food awards — our list provides insight on dining spots and trends to look out for in 2026. Check it out. Continue reading …
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• New laws will take effect in Pa. in 2026. From a hair discrimination ban to park ranger body cameras, here’s what you need to know. [WHYY]
• Common medications for diabetes, heart disease and cancer are about to get cheaper for thousands of Pennsylvania seniors with Medicare Part D prescription plans. [WHYY]
• Pa. communities lost millions of dollars in federal funding after Congress’ short-term spending bill to end the government shutdown stripped out all Community Project Funding grants for fiscal year 2025. [WHYY]
• Philly’s housing market: “Everyone is kind of stuck”. And it looks as if that will continue. [WHYY]
• With a historically bad job market, phantom job listings and a loss of entry-level positions due to AI, young Philadelphians are sounding the alarm. [WHYY]
• Here’s why the Schuylkill River Trail sinkhole between Race Street and JFK Boulevard hasn’t been filled yet. [Inq$$]
• The Wall Street Journal names Philly the world’s top place to visit in 2026, what with impending World Cup matches and the nation’s 250th birthday. [PhillyVoice]
MAYOR WATCH
The mayor has no public events scheduled for Tuesday.
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)
Friday, Dec. 26: 35th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Plant and People hosts their Unity in The Community Umoja Celebration with fun, music and more. (3 to 8 p.m.)
Friday, Dec. 26: Emo Night Karaoke
Sing out your emo feelings about the holiday season at Underground Arts in Callowhill. $21.06 tickets. (9 p.m.)
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.)
Sunday, Dec. 28: 3rd annual Kwanzaa at the Penn Museum
Enjoy captivating performances from Karen Smith Drumming and violinist Owen Valentine. Learn about Kwanzaa principles like unity, self-determination, and creativity through engaging, hands-on workshops hosted by Kwanzaa for Me & You. Experience meaningful traditions, explore a marketplace with local artisans, and enjoy storytelling, music, and dance. Plus, handmade Zawadi gifts for all! Free, but advance registration encouraged. (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Through Tuesday, Dec. 30: Seasonal Science: Holiday Programs
From live science shows and a new planetarium show to mystery dissections and build-and-play Creation Station, check out the Franklin Institute’s daily holiday-themed programs. $23 to 29 tickets. (Various times)
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.)
