austin

Austin

chicago

Chicago

denver

Denver

lasvegas

Las Vegas

madison

Madison

nashville

Nashville

philly

Philly

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

portland

Portland

saltlake

Salt Lake

seattle

Seattle

twincities

Twin Cities

We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Philly

Brittany Valentine

Head to the Freedom Mortgage Pavillion on Friday, June 9 to 

catch Shania Twain, the queen of country pop

 perform at the Mann Center on Tuesday, June 27. [$35-$459, Fairmount Park]

Erykah Badu is performing her Unfollow Me Tour

 at the Mann Center on Sunday, July 9. But don’t call Tyrone. (Or call him.) [$22-$199, Fairmount Park]

 performing at the Wells Fargo Center on Monday, July 10. [$49.50-$169.50, South Philly]

 on Sunday, Aug 6 at the Freedom Mortgage Pavillion. [$49.50-$169.50, Camden, NJ]

celebrate African culture at Odunde Festival

 with a week of fun events, more than 100 vendors, two stages of live entertainment, a fashion show, and more. [pay-as-you-go, South Philly]

From June 21 to Aug. 13, head to Franklin Square Park to marvel at dozens of massive, handcrafted lanterns in the form of dragons, tigers, rabbits, and more at the 

. Enjoy live cultural performances, shopping, and dining. [$14-$22, Old City]

 and sip on award-winning seasonal craft beers, seltzers, and ciders, and enjoy live music, food trucks, and zoo exhibits. [$45-$95, West Philly]

Starting June 21, the Chinese Lantern Festival opens daily at 6 p.m.

City Cast Philly staff

✏️ Find past crossword puzzles below:

This mini-crossword is filled with clues on Philly history and headlines. 

Can You Solve This Philly-Themed Crossword?

Play Our Philly Crossword Puzzle

What Philadelphians have been wondering. We break down why things in Philadelphia are the way they are and how they work.

Philly, Explained

Siani Colón

It’s warming up in Philly, which means that it’s officially festival season! With the 

, there are plenty of events to keep us busy — and working up an appetite! Chow down on the best that Philly’s culinary scene has to offer at these spring festivals.

Manayunk’s Main Street will be blocked off to traffic for one of the largest food truck festivals in the country. The 

 invites food trucks from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware to fire up the grill and offer everything from tacos and burgers to dumplings and skewers. This year’s event will be larger than usual, with more than 85 food trucks. Plus, the neighborhood’s main corridor will be open for business, so visit Main Street’s restaurants and shops while you’re there on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

One of South Philly’s biggest festivals is back for its 16th year on April 26 from noon to 5 p.m. East Passyunk’s 

 shines a light on the neighborhood’s favorite restaurants. Walk along five blocks of the corridor and grab a bite (or two, or three). If you need a break, stop by the Singing Fountain for live entertainment or buy a gift from one of the 100 or so vendors.

This food festival honoring Pan-Asian solidarity 

. The collaboration between Roots to Table and Asian Food Collective returns to Fleisher Art Memorial on May 3. Eat food from a range of Asian cultures with vendors including 

. While you’re there, learn about resources from Philly’s Asian-led nonprofits or grab crafts from local artists. Entry is free, but you can 

The Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association is bringing this West Philly corridor to life with a 

 on May 16. Eat your way through Philly’s favorite food trucks at The Lawn at UCity Square at 37th and Filbert Streets. Then, head to the main stage at 37th and Lancaster for a dance party.

Help fund initiatives supporting home ownership, small businesses, and the community at 

 spring fundraiser on May 30. Hosted at the Commodore Barry Irish Center, your ticket includes food from the neighborhood’s top chefs and bakers, and an open bar. Tickets are available on a sliding scale between $50 to $250. And be sure to dress to impress — the suggested dress code is colorful cocktail attire.

Sometimes it’s hard to find restaurants or festivals that 

 returns on June 13, now at Girard College. The day-long event will feature over 50 vendors selling plant-based food and products, talks from leaders in plant-based health and activism, and family-friendly activities.

Explore dishes from BBQ to plant-based spins on classics at these upcoming food festivals. 

Food Festivals To Look Forward to Spring 2026 in Philly

Get a Taste of Philly’s Food Scene at These Spring Food Fests

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Philadelphia. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Philly Food & Drink

Food & Drink

We’re a month away from Pennsylvania’s primary election, when voters will decide who will appear on November’s ballot, including candidates for key positions like the 

Before casting your vote on May 19, make a plan. Here are the important deadlines to remember as Election Day approaches.

The deadline to register to vote or update your registration before the primary is 

, calling 1-877-VOTESPA, or reaching the Philadelphia County Voter Registration office at 215-686-1590.

. You can also register in person at 520 N. Columbus Blvd. 5th floor (Voter Registration Office), City Hall Room 402 (Philadelphia County Board of Elections), or a 

If you prefer to use mail, print an application online or grab one at the post office, the Free Library of Philadelphia, state liquor stores, or certain government offices. 

You’ll need to update your registration if you have moved or changed your name since the last time you voted.

deadline is also your last chance to update your party affiliation before the election. Pennsylvania is a closed primary state, meaning that you can only vote for candidates in the same political party as you, Democrat or Republican. Independent or nonaffiliated voters cannot vote for a candidate during this election, but you can vote on the 

. These voters can fully participate in November's general election.

If you cannot physically make it to the polls, you can request either an absentee ballot or a mail-in ballot by 

. The Philadelphia County Board of Elections must receive your application by 

 by people who will be away from the city on Election Day or are in the military. In the case of an emergency, 

last-minute absentee ballots can be requested

. Mail-in ballots are available to all eligible voters. You can also decide if you want a one-time mail-in ballot or apply to be an 

 is Election Day. The county election board must receive your mail-in ballot or civilian absentee ballot on this day by 

If you are voting in person, polls are open from 

Make sure you’re set to participate in this May’s election by following this list.


Register To Vote Before the 2026 Pennsylvania Primary Election

Your 2026 May Primary Checklist

What's being decided in Philadelphia City Hall and why it matters. We monitor local elections, political news, and Philadelphia City Council. 

Philly Election and City Hall News

Local Civics

At a city budget hearing on April 1, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation informed City Council that it has a 

backlog of close to 30,000 trees to address

. With so many hazardous trees in need of pruning and removal, that list may never reach zero.

The loss of trees throws a wrench in the 

 to increase the tree canopy and protect existing coverage.

Philadelphians can help with this by growing Philly’s urban forest in their immediate communities. Here’s how.

Tree Tenders are groups of volunteers trained to plant trees and maintain them in their communities. The initiative is a collaboration with the 

 and community partners like nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and watershed groups.

Throughout the year, PHS hosts training in-person and 

. After completing the basic level, you can become a certified Tree Tender and join your local group. At the higher levels, you can get certified to take on leadership roles and more complicated maintenance tasks.

Basic training includes lessons on tree biology, identification, care, and safety. A full course is available at a sliding scale cost, with a suggested donation of $40. Some Tree Tender groups may waive the fee.

. Tree Tender groups exist in many Philadelphia neighborhoods and the surrounding suburbs.

After becoming certified, you can help neighbors register to receive a tree during the next planting cycle, assist with pruning, and answer questions about tree care.

Can I Plant Trees Without Becoming a Tree Tender?

Opportunities arise every spring and fall to plant trees throughout the city. These are the best times of year to plant and do necessary maintenance because you avoid extreme weather conditions and interfering with budding trees.

No experience is needed to participate in a planting, as training is done on-site. If you’re a certified Tree Tender who has participated in a planting before, your expertise can help guide first-timers in a successful planting.

, a celebration of Philly’s parks, also has tree care opportunities.

If you want a tree for your private property, you can 

through your neighborhood Tree Tender group to have one planted by volunteers in the next planting cycle. Another option is Tree Philly, which hosts 

 and will provide delivery and planting assistance to residents with limited mobility.

Philadelphia’s trees are in major need of maintenance. Tree Tenders can help their neighborhood’s tree canopy thrive. 

How To Become a Tree Tender in Philly

Here’s How You Can Help Grow Philly’s Tree Canopy

Moving regularly each day can reduce stress, improve your sleep, and decrease your risk of diseases. So it’s no surprise that running clubs are a popular way to not only stay active, but also make new friends. However, some may want to start their wellness journey at a slower pace. Here are some walking clubs to ease you onto the trails.

This initiative between the Fairmount Park Conservancy, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation invites residents to get to know their neighborhood park — and perhaps visit others — 

. Trained leaders guide seasonal hour-long walks in parks around the city. 

You may have walked through the city, but have you ever walked around it? 

 encourages residents to explore the city’s borders by walking its perimeter either on their own or with a group. The challenge is designed in segments (trying to walk Philly’s entire shape in a day may be 

challenging) to connect with new-to-you sections of the city and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Philly, Philly.

 organizes multiple workouts each month all across the city. You may have seen its

 before. In addition to its walking group, you can participate in other group-fitness workouts and a book club. All 

 is a dedicated walking and wellness group for women of color in Philadelphia. The group organizes walks along the city’s bridges and trails or to specific destinations such as coffee shops and farmers' markets. Walks are adult-only unless specified otherwise.

 promotes accessible nature-based wellness activities with animals. The project hosts 

 at its home base at Awbury Arboretum and throughout the city. In addition to its goat walks, it also hosts grief walks.

Did you know that if you walk just five miles, you’ve completed 10,000 steps for the day?

 uses it as its marker for its weekly walks and runs. If you’re interested in joining the group and staying connected, you can 

🏃 If you’re looking for a little more speed, 

Walking Clubs

Here’s my favorite walking club!

Not everyone is training for a marathon, so these groups are encouraging slower movement in Philly. 

Join a Philly Walking Group Near You

Get Your Steps In With These Philly Walking Groups

Find the best of everything that Philadelphia has to offer.

Philly’s Best

Philly's Best

How well do you know Philly's latest headlines and historical facts? Try your hand at the quiz below to find out!

🌀 Looking for a previous Hey Philly quiz? Find it here:

Sept. 27, 2024: Cheesesteak Trivia Edition

If you like what you see, subscribe to the 

 below. We’ll send local news, things to do, and other Philly essentials to your inbox every weekday morning — plus, a fresh news quiz every Friday. ⬇️

Pop quiz, Philly! It’s that time again to test your knowledge on local trivia. 


Philadelphia News Quiz & Trivia: April 10, 2026

Prove Your Weekly Philly Knowledge

, it’s a good time to start thinking about what to plant in your garden this season. 

 to your plot and pot. Not sure where to find some? Here are some upcoming plant sales and swaps to spruce up your garden while supporting local businesses.

Remember the former Greensgrow Farm in Kensington? The 

 is taking over in partnership with the New Kensington Community Development Corporation. The institute is kicking this new era off with an 

. Attendees can go on a "wonder walk" that includes snacks and plant activities led by staff. The organization has also opened plant orders. 

 on April 18 to celebrate Earth Day. Make native plant 

 with other community members, along with other activities, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

 on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The street will be blocked off outside of the MLK Triangle to make way for workshops, music, and plenty of plant supplies. Interested in vending? 

 of Philadelphia County are bringing their 

 on April 26. Guests can browse over a hundred plants, from tasty veggies to fragrant herbs and beginner-friendly houseplants. There will also be opportunities to attend garden tours, plant demos, and workshops.

Stock up on pollinator plants, herbs, and more at 

. Sales will happen on April 21, May 9, June 13, May 30, and Sept. 12. Be sure to check out the 

 while you’re visiting during the weekend.

Support students at Philly’s agriculture high school by attending its 

 on May 2. Not only will you have the opportunity to purchase plants, but you can also receive free vegetable seeds. Stick around and see the students show off the skills they’re learning.

Germantown Residents for Economic Alternatives Together

demonstrations on living well on a budget

 at this event on May 2. Aside from a seed exchange, 

 a foraging walk and citrus juice-making workshop. All activities will be at the Wyck Historic House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Head further up Germantown Avenue the following day to Chestnut Hill for its annual 

 on May 3. Browse plants, pots, and other garden decor from over 300 vendors along the corridor.

PHS hosts monthly plant swaps at its pop-up gardens in 

. Keep an eye on its calendar for other plant workshops throughout the season.

Several festivals and businesses are hosting major pop-up sales to help you find the perfect plants for your garden. 

Where To Shop For and Swap Plants in Philly

Shop and Swap at These Spring Plant Pop-Ups

Did you know April 7 is National Beer Day? On this day in 1933, 

 for the first time since Prohibition began, marking the beginning of the end of the dry era.

Breweries are a part of Philly history, so much so that we have 

. Curious how Philly’s finest brewers make their beer? Discover the secrets and taste it for yourself on these tours.

 went from brewing beers from a small location in Manayunk in the 1990s to running its huge Northern Liberties facility today. Find out how all of it came to be! On a tour, you can get a look-through of the facility, a beer sample, a full beer, and a souvenir. 

 everyday of the week. Right now you can get half-off tickets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

 has locations in Point Breeze and Fishtown. If you want to take a tour, those are 

. For $10, you can sample a couple of beers and receive a pint glass and sticker. The tour runs for about 30 minutes and is available by appointment on Saturdays at 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. Larger groups can be accommodated on different days of the week upon request.

Walk down Frankford Avenue and you’ll stumble upon several breweries, craft halls, and neighborhood bars. Operating from the nearly 150-year-old Weisbrod & Hess Oriental Brewing Company facility, 

. is keeping the River Wards’ beer-making tradition alive. This brewery leads 

 of the month at noon and 2 p.m. Stop by and learn more about the building’s history and see where the beers are brewed and bottled. Keep your eyes peeled for Duke the Brewery Cat while looking around!

Co-owned by brothers Richard and Mengistu, 

 in Pennsylvania. The University City brewery offers tours Friday through Sunday between noon and 4:30 p.m. Guests receive a souvenir glass, a vinyl-branded sticker, $1 off all draft beer the same day, a coupon for a return visit, and a complimentary pour of Good Jawn (Pale Ale), Nubian (Brown Ale), or Clean Sweep (Pilsner). 

Philadelphia Hops and History Walking Tour

 narrows its focus to the Spring Garden section of the city. Attendees can sample up to 12 different beers from three stops while learning about Philly beer history. This walking tour is on Saturdays and is $75 per person. The 

 is your crash course to the beer scene in Philadelphia and South Jersey. Round-trip transportation is provided. This tour is available Wednesday through Saturday and is $85 per person.

Have a Drink at Philly’s Touring Beer Garden

Philly’s history with beer goes as far back as the city’s founding. These are the breweries continuing that legacy. 


Where To Go on a Brewery Tour in Philly

Tours on Tap: See How Philly Beer is Made

Watch indie rock band Weezer perform at the Mann Center on Tuesday, June 27.

Philly Summer Entertainment Guide

Summer’s finally here. Here's how to make the most of it.

Summer’s finally here. Here's how to make the most of it in Philadelphia.

Philly Summer Guide

Summer Guide

Dog parents and dog enthusiasts alike: This one's for you. Here’s a roundup of some of the best things to do with your furry friends this summer.

Sip and snack while you paint portraits of your pet at 

 on Tuesday, June 27. Materials and instructions will be provided. If you plan to bring your pup, 

 for a “yappy” brunch on July 9. Sip on mimosas while your dogs enjoy treats. No pup, no problem: All are welcome! [$15, Penn’s Landing]

 and the Young Friends of PAWS, the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, on Wednesday, July 26  for a “yappy” hour and raffle prizes. Ten percent of all proceeds will benefit PAWS' mission to make Philadelphia a no-kill city. [pay-as-you-go, South Philly]

Summer Guide

Philly Summer Entertainment Guide

Brittany Valentine

Concerts:

Festivals:

Share article

Summer Guide

Dog-Friendly Philadelphia Summer Events

Free Things To Do In Philly Summer 2023

Best Philadelphia Family Friendly Events for Summer 2023

The latest in Philly

Play Our Philly Crossword Puzzle

Get a Taste of Philly’s Food Scene at These Spring Food Fests

Your 2026 May Primary Checklist

Here’s How You Can Help Grow Philly’s Tree Canopy

Get Your Steps In With These Philly Walking Groups

Prove Your Weekly Philly Knowledge

Shop and Swap at These Spring Plant Pop-Ups

Tours on Tap: See How Philly Beer is Made