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City Cast Philly

Tips and tricks by Philadelphia locals, for locals.

Siani Colón

Don’t forget to file your 2025 personal income tax return by April 15. You can file federal taxes through the 

. The process can be confusing, and while tax prep services can be helpful, some are expensive or 

Here are trusted organizations helping Philadelphians file on time for no cost:

Although it primarily assists people over 65, 

 helps anyone file taxes. You can find AARP’s partner sites using 

. The partner sites are spread across the city. Three require you to schedule an appointment in advance.

 during tax season and throughout the year. The Norris Square-based organization offers assistance in English and Spanish by appointment only. You can schedule an in-person session through its 

 through the end of tax season. The free service is available to individuals who make less than $84,000 a year. You can stop by Congreso’s building in North Philly every week on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Appointments are on a walk-in basis. For more information, call 215-763-8870.

 provide resources such as tax filing instruction booklets and copies of the 1040 and 1040-SR tax return forms.

United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey

 works with partners at the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. You can 

schedule an appointment online to file taxes for free or

The deadline to file your taxes is April 15. Here’s where to find free tax help in Philadelphia.



 Where To File Taxes for Free in Philly in 2026

Where to Get Free Tax Help in Philly

Tips and tricks for living your best Philadelphia life, by locals, for locals.

Philly Life Hacks

The Free Library of Philadelphia houses hundreds of thousands of books within its collections. But did you know that with your library card, you can borrow way more than just books? When you stop at one of its 54 branches to grab a copy of this year’s “One Book, One Philadelphia” pick, be sure to check out what else the library has to offer.

Be one with nature and hit the trails with a 

 and can be checked out for three weeks. These backpacks include binoculars, a field guide, and a journal to record your observations. The library partners with several local birding groups if you’d like to use your backpack with company rather than on your own.

If you just want to go on a regular hike, 

If you’re looking for alternatives to Spotify and Apple Music, go back to the basics with a CD. If you prefer records, those are only available for in-library use. But you can join Parkway Central’s Music Department’s 

Speaking of music, you can borrow instruments, too. 

Instruments easily transportable via SEPTA

 (think guitars and bongos) can be borrowed for up to three weeks. The library does not offer instruments that require a mouthpiece.

If you feel nostalgic about selecting movies from Blockbuster’s shelves, you can do that for free at the library. But don’t think the collection only has throwbacks. You can borrow newer releases, including movies and shows exclusive to platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and even Criterion.

these days, no matter which console you use. If you or your child is a gamer, save up by 

 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.

The library offers several fitness programs for yoga, dance, and strength training. If you prefer to work out from the comfort of your own home, you can 

 complete with a mat, rope, and band. Keep track of your 

If you’re a baker borrowing a cookbook from the library, you can grab some cake pans while you’re at it. Bake unique shapes such as 

Need help looking professional for that big interview, or headshot, or day-to-day work outfit? Paschalville Library has a selection of 

Browse the Library’s Rare Book Collection

With your library card, you can borrow items beyond the library’s extensive book collection. 



The Unique Items You Can Borrow From Philly’s Free Library

City Cast Philly staff

debating if a “Love Is Blind” audition

 will actually find you love, landing a date can be stressful. And then once you’re out, the last thing you need at the end of the night is a big bill. So here’s a few killer date ideas that will save you some money so you can afford to treat for the second and third dates, too.

 in Philly’s art institutions, the Barnes is free 

 of the month. And this Friday, Feb. 6 and next Friday, Feb. 13, the Philadelphia Art Museum is 

 to celebrate the closing of the “Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100” exhibition. Courting more of a science nerd? 

 at The Academy of Music on Feb. 27 features the Dino Drafts Beer Garden in Dinosaur Hall.

Making dinner for your date is so romantic, and you can do it together – for free – at Vetri Community Partnership’s 

Over in West Philly, Studio 34 Yoga offers discounted “

” Some classes are just $10. Or, put on tank tops and hit the weights together: Many gyms have first-visit discounts, like with City Fitness’ free 

Who needs a matinee when the BOK Building in South Philly has a 

 once a month? Check out Opera Philly productions for just $11, thanks to the

 for theater tickets discounted by as much as 50% for performances in the coming 72 hours.

The Free Library Parkway Central Library gives you a look into its rare books collection 

the first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m.

 In February, the library is showing off hand-made valentines from its Pennsylvania German Fraktur Collection.

If you want more date ideas for $25 or less, listen to 

Keep love alive, and your bank account unaffected, with these cheap Philadelphia date ideas. 

Philadelphia Date Ideas Under $25

Dates in Philly for $25 or Less

The changing of the seasons is the perfect time to be out with the old and in with the (like) new. Philly business corridors in neighborhoods like Old City, Fishtown, and Queen Village have vibrant second-hand scenes. Whether you’re trying to be frugal or you want to shop more sustainably, 

 — especially the next time you drop off your donations.

 in East Kensington for deals on clothing and household items.

 has multiple floors and rooms to explore for not just clothing but kitchenware, decor, and books. Proceeds from sales go to local organizations serving communities affected by HIV/AIDS.

 locations from Parkside to South Philly to Northeast Philly with plenty of large bins to dive into.

 is one of several vintage stores sprinkled around Queen Village, keeping Fabric Row’s textile legacy alive. Browse handpicked items from decades past.

 is the place for you. The large warehouse space is accessible by appointment or for open houses on the third Saturday of every month. You can “shop like a dealer” or try your luck finding an item for yourself. While there, be sure to visit the special collection curated by 

 on the third floor for clothing from throughout the 20th century.

 serves newborns to 12-year-olds. You can find pre-loved clothing, books, toys, puzzles, and baby gear for sale. Lilypad also hosts a large consignment sale at Old Pine Community Center twice a year.

 specializes in sustainable goods for kids, and also hosts open play and swaps. In addition to its new eco-friendly products, the store also sells gently-used clothes, books, and toys.

 to shop or donate decor and electronics to furnish your home. The South Philly shop sells couches, dressers, dishwashers, and more, with proceeds benefitting the nonprofit’s mission building and selling new homes and making critical repairs for those in need.

Thunderbird Salvage has just about anything you can think of. Need a 

? If you’re hosting, why not this beauty of an 

? The converted church building on Frankford Avenue is a wonderland of furniture, clothing, and trinkets that make each visit feel like you’re stepping inside a time machine.

📍 For even more recommendations on where to shop for secondhand items, 

Whether you’re eco-conscious or just prefer to shop on a budget, these stores can meet all of your needs while giving items second lives.

Where To Shop Second-Hand in Philly

How much food waste do you generate at home? Even if it doesn’t feel like a lot, waste in a big city can add up. In 2019, the city estimated that Philadelphia 

 each year. Composting is one way to help reduce the waste we send to our landfills.

The benefits go beyond having less trash to haul out each week. 

 can balance soil density (if it’s too loose or too tight), enrich it with nutrients like nitrogen and potassium, absorb water, and prevent pests and weeds from encroaching. This can help your plants and veggies grow healthier.

What to do with your compost depends on the season you’re working in. The fall is a good time to start your compost 

due to the abundance of organic materials

 such as fallen leaves, dead plants, and leftovers from the end of the harvest season. So instead of bagging up those leaves after raking them, consider giving those leaves a second purpose!

By starting in the fall, the compost can mature over the winter and be ready to be added to your garden right before planting begins in the spring. If the compost is good to go by the autumn season, 

it doesn’t hurt to add some to your soil

If you start your compost during the warmer months, the heat will help the materials break down – but be careful not to let your compost dry out.

What’s considered compostable depends if you’re composting at home, or giving your scraps away to a service. 

, compostable materials are separated into two categories: greens (nitrogen-rich materials) and browns (carbon-rich materials).

Shredded cardboard without glue, tape, or a coating

 you might not typically think about composting, like pet fur. You may want to avoid including items such as meats, bones, and grease that risk attracting animals or take longer to break down.

If you can compost at home, where you store compost depends on how much you need and how much space you have.

If you’re a Philadelphian who has access to a backyard, you can purchase a bin or 

two to three parts “browns” and one part “greens,”

 plus some water to keep it moist. You can 

 if you live in an apartment or a space without a large yard.

Where To Take Your Compostables in Philly

If you don’t have the space to do much with your own compost, you can always pass it along to someone who can.

Clean, separated compost materials can be dropped off at the 

 for a fee. This includes leaves, grass clippings, and woodchips. Prices range based on the material and by the ton, but there is a $15 minimum.

There are two Philly-area composting services, 

. Each requires a subscription fee. Members receive a bucket to fill for coordinated weekly pickup. If you live in the suburbs, check out 

There are local community gardens and organizations serving as public drop-off sites through the 

Check the organizations' guidelines before dropping off materials to see what compostables are accepted and whether they require membership.

Growing Native Plants in Philly

Reduce food waste and give dead plants a second life by turning to composting.

How To Compost in Philly

Your Guide to Composting in Philly

 on clothing each year. Although we’d like to get our money’s worth, 

 as it used to. Whether it’s a broken zipper or a cracked sole, if we don’t have the skills to repair our stuff, tossing it in the landfill feels like the easiest solution. Luckily, Philadelphia has some talented seamstresses, tailors, and cobblers who can make your stuff good as new.

 is driven by the missions of size inclusivity and sustainability in fashion. You can get a button replaced, tear repaired, or fix an open seam among other alterations. Request your service 

 has been busy teaching Philadelphians how to sew, but if you need someone to do the job for you, head over to Olde Kensington. Its services include hemming, resizing, strap shortening, and cropping.

Queen Village’s Fabric Row is home to several textile shops keeping the neighborhood’s legacy as a garment district alive. One iconic shop that can meet your needs is 

. Led by Larnell Baldwin and his 40 years of expertise, this shop can assist with invisible mending, leather repair, and custom alterations.

 is a one-stop shop for fixing leather goods. Not only can you get your shoes repaired, cleaned, and restored but this shop can fix handbags, belts, wallets, and your luggage to carry it all.

 specializes in mobility equipment, so of course this place can fix your shoes to get you where you need to go. Tucked away on 10th Street near Jefferson University’s campus, this shop will resole, dye, and clean your shoes as needed.

 agrees that you spend too much money to just throw your shoes away. Located in Center City, this family business can fix any type of shoe.

Where To Donate Clothes in Good Condition

Give your closet a second life by repairing your clothes instead of tossing them.


Where To Get Your Clothes Repaired in Philly

How To Make Your Clothes Last Longer

The fall semester is just around the corner. As students and parents flock to the stores to prepare, they’re incurring some extra costs. A new Deloitte survey reported that 

Philadelphians spend 27% above the national average

 of $570 on school supplies. With supplies, clothes, and tech all on the shopping list, parents are shifting shopping behaviors to ease the financial burden.

To help families get ready for the new school year, here are some local back-to-school giveaways.

 is rolling through Philadelphia neighborhoods throughout the month of August. Students can receive free backpacks, immunizations, and physicals.

 is distributing free backpacks while supplies last from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m at 3100 Red Lion Road. Your child must be present to get a backpack.

St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children

 is hosting its Back-to-School Carnival for the 15th year. The carnival will provide free backpacks, health resources, and games. The child must be present to receive a backpack. The hospital is still accepting backpack donations. The event will be held in the parking lot at 160 E. Erie Ave. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 is hosting a back-to-school block party from noon to 4 p.m. Aside from supplies, attendees can expect food, games, and live music. Join the party at 215 N. 57th St.

 is giving away free backpacks filled with school essentials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families can visit the site at 7700 Ogontz Ave. in West Oak Lane.

 is hosting a Back-to-School Block Party. The agency will distribute supply-filled backpacks for students entering kindergarten through 12th grade. The party will be at the Youth and Family Center at 2013 Ridge Ave.

Salvation Army Kroc Center of Philadelphia

 is hosting a backpack giveaway from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 4200 Wissahickon Ave. 

 is welcoming kids back to school with a party. Visit Dixon House at 1920 S. 20th St. not only for giveaways but self-defense lessons, arts and crafts, and free haircuts. The block party will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 will distribute backpacks from noon to 4 p.m. at New Church Down The Way Ministries at 4234 Ogden St. The child must be present to receive a bag.

’s Community Appreciation Day on Point Breeze Avenue and Tasker Street will feature live performances from artists like Jadakiss, amusement rides, vendors, and of course, free backpacks. The celebration kicks off at noon and goes until 8 p.m.

 is providing free backpacks, supplies, and light refreshments at its worship site from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3921 Powelton Ave.

Don’t break the bank preparing your child for the school year. Get help at these back-to-school events.

Where To Find Free School Supplies in Philly

Get Supplies at These Back-to-School Giveaways in Philly

College application season is coming up, but it’s not accessible to all Philly students. Luckily, there are lots of local organizations dedicated to helping students apply to and finance higher education.

This program helps middle school students in core subjects and electives, provides mentorship, and assists in the high school application process. Once in high school, program alumni can access additional support when searching and applying for colleges.

Longtime Philly education organizations Philadelphia Futures and Steppingstone Scholars merged in 2022 to form Heights Philadelphia. It still embodies the mission of helping first-generation and low-income students access college. Participants can access ACT and SAT tutoring, college trips, dual enrollment, and paid internships. The nonprofit also administers the 

 which provides tuition assistance among other resources for Philly-area high school girls.

This fund provides financial assistance to Philly students through its 

 program, awarding $650,000 in aid annually. Its 

 program is a new initiative supporting foster youth through college.

An online platform through the Philadelphia Education Fund, PhillyGoes2College compiles college application deadlines, posts scholarship opportunities, hosts a directory of college prep programs, and has guides for students.

Upward Bound is a federal program with resources for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to help motivate and prepare them for college. There are a few local colleges and universities that host Upward Bound programs.

 has two programs, Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math & Science. The former has a civic engagement angle and is open to students interested in any major while the latter is geared toward STEM programming.

 Upward Bound program supports students from Sayre, Overbrook, West Philadelphia, and Parkway West high schools.

 TRIO Upward Bound accepts students from Benjamin Franklin, Building 21, Furness, and South Philadelphia high schools.

 TRIO programs serve students from John Bartram, Sayre, and Simon Fels high schools.

To help close the college access gap, these organizations help students to apply for, pay for, and succeed in college. 

Where Philly Students Can Get College Preparation Assistance

These Philly Orgs Help Students Get Into College

With the last frost of winter behind us, now is the time to break out the gardening gloves. But whether you're a rookie trying out gardening with some potted plants, or you're a pro curating your dream city greenspace, picking the right plant can be the hardest part of your journey.

After spending a recent lunch break pulling weeds from his 4,000-square-foot West Mt. Airy native plant meadow, 

 founder John Janick described why he thinks planting native plants is the best and easiest way to bolster your outdoor space.

Native plants are species of fauna and flora that have grown in the area for thousands of years. Janick, who has sold thousands of native plants out of his home since 2016, says these plants are the building blocks of the ecosystem. They have evolved to thrive in the local climate and provide sustenance for bugs and other wildlife.

"There are over 500 different caterpillars that can feed on an oak tree's leaf,” Janick said. “They turn into butterflies and moths, but they're also food for birds like songbirds."

While some insects can be pests, Janick said they’re also necessary for growing food and keeping out unwanted visitors – bugs like dragonflies, for example, can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in a day.

Janick also emphasized that native plants can save you time and energy in the garden.

"They're really drought resistant, and don't need fertilizers to grow," Janick said. "They're used to our soils, used to our weather, and so ultimately, once they're established, they can be basically maintenance-free."

If you're sold on native plants, here's what Janick recommends for some different garden goals:

If ease is what you're going for, then look no further than 

. They're easily recognizable by their yellow flowers, each petal stemming out from a black center. Another option are 

, or echinacea, which are known for their pink petals draped around a brown cone-shaped center. Janick said these are beginner-friendly, drought-resistant, and have long blooming periods.

 plants grow tall and have showy flowers that Janick describes as similar to purple fireworks. This description is fitting since these plants need a lot of sun and the peak bloom is around the 4th of July.

If helping out the butterflies (or just hoping to see more in your backyard) is the goal, consider 

is a magnet for insects. There are many types of milkweed. Depending what flower color you want, try 

 which tends to have deeper colors like orange or red.

For growing areas that are a bit darker, 

are good choices. Asters have dainty purple or pink flowers with a yellow center, and goldenrods have lush green foliage with clusters of yellow buds peppering the top of the plants. Both thrive in areas with less sun and can hold their own against pesky weeds.

, which attract bugs that can kill common garden pests. A problem with many non-native mint species is they can spread fast and take over entire gardens if not cared for properly. But native mints like 

 don't aggressively spread, and they taste similar to their non-native counterparts.

 for upcoming events and native plant offerings.

This local gardener and native plant nursery owner thinks growing plants that are local is easier and better for Philly's natural environment.

Philly Life Hacks

Where to Get Free Tax Help in Philly

The Unique Items You Can Borrow From Philly’s Free Library

Dates in Philly for $25 or Less

Latest articles

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Your Guide to Composting in Philly

How To Make Your Clothes Last Longer

Get Supplies at These Back-to-School Giveaways in Philly

These Philly Orgs Help Students Get Into College

Garden Hacks: Growing Native Plants in Philly

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