Welcome to the 2026 Good Philadelphia Citizen Calendar, full of good things for you to do in Philly, all year long.
Every January, loads of us resolve to work on ourselves in the New Year. We wanna eat better, drink less, spend more time with loved ones, find a new job, fix things, straighten up. Laudable goals. Here are The Philadelphia Citizen, we would like to challenge you to do one more thing: Act civically.
This calendar is your guide to being a better Philadelphian all year long. Look below for dozens of ways to take part in city life that makes Philly better for all of us: Vote. Volunteer. Join in cherished traditions. Cheer on our teams. Clean up after yourself. Make our city a beautiful place for everyone in it. Without further ado, your 2026 Good Citizen Calendar:
JANUARY 2026
January 1: Own Mummers Day
The rest of the world calls January 1 New Year’s Day. But on the first day of the year, when thousands of working-class grown-ups from South and Northeast Philadelphia — and much of South Jersey — dress up like modest versions of Vegas showgirls and parade drunkenly up Broad Street then down Two Street — or stay sober while dancing on those streets and playing banjos, saxophones, etc., or performing quite incredible dance routines at the Convention Center — much of Philadelphia proves that we are nothing like the rest of the world. In Philly, New Year’s Day is Mummers Day.
All January: Start a Mentorship during National Mentoring Month
Wait. You’re not a mentor? We can hook you up. Sign up to change a young life with Independence Big Brothers Big Sisters, or Mighty Writers, or Minds Matter Philadelphia, or the KB Foundation, for starters.
January 6: Choose Democracy
2026 is the fifth anniversary of the day Americans tried to take over our own Capitol, while Congress was in session. If it hadn’t been for the heroics of a few officers in that building, the angry mob may have succeeded. Let’s make sure that our country keeps going forward, working toward a more representative government, a more perfect union. Be sure to vote in every election, and speak up for justice.
January 10, 17, 24: Feed your Christmas Tree to Philly Goats
Some of Philadelphia’s most famous (real) animals dwell at the Farm at Awbury Arboretum — and have become the city’s most popular means to “tree-cycle” your tannenbaum. Tote your Christmas tree to the Philly Goat Project goats at Awbury Arboretum (January 10 or 24; rain dates: January 11 and 25) or Laurel Hill West Cemetery (January 17). $20 per-tree donation requested.
January 17: Get Historic on Benjamin Franklin’s Birthday
Dude may have had his flaws, but Franklin definitely knew how to party — and how to turn a phrase. Give ol’ BF props by tossing a penny on his grave at 5th and Arch streets, walking through his Venturi-designed ghost house between 3rd and 4th and Market and Chestnut streets, or just going “early to bed.”
January 19: Take Part in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
These days, the whole country celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. But Philly still does it biggest and best. The Martin Luther King Day of Service celebrates its 20th year in 2026. Sign up to volunteer at any of dozens of projects on January 19: Repaint a school hallway, sort food or clothing donations, pick up trash in a park, read a book to preschoolers. So many parks, rec centers, libraries, neighborhoods and schools need your help.
FEBRUARY 2026
February 4: Honor Rosa Parks and Caroline LeCount on Transit Equity Day
Rosa Parks was not the first Black American woman to inspire a bus boycott. That was 19th-century Philadelphian Caroline LeCount, who is extremely overdue for a statue — but who recently, at long last, is getting her own street. But Parks’ simple and defiant act inspired a 20th-century movement, and that movement inspired work to change for the better. So, grateful that a strike was yet again averted, happily ride a SEPTA bus, subway or train. Have a seat. Make room for another rider. Thank your driver.
February 7: Bring the Kid(s) to the African American Children’s Book Fair
One of the biggest days of the year for book lovers is this one, when Black authors and illustrators from across the nation come to meet young readers and read and sign books, and shoppers fill their arms with tomes to last the year. You’ll meet the next Jason Reynolds or Jacqueline Woodson (or maybe the real ones). This is the biggest such event on the East Coast. And, it’s a glorious sight to behold. PA Convention Center, February 7 from 1 to 4pm.
February 17: Celebrate the Lunar New Year
There is literally no holiday more delicious than this one, which, if you celebrate by dining on dim sum or duck in Chinatown, you’ll likely catch a lion parade and street fireworks. Go. The neighborhood’s had another year, and would certainly love your patronage. (P.S. It’s the Year of the Fire Horse.)
February 17 through March 19: Be Extra Kind to Muslim Friends: Ramadan is here
Fasting from sunup to sundown for a full month inspires reflection and even community building. It does not, however, come easily. Go easy on your Muslim colleagues, friends, neighbors and fellow citizens.
February 22: Register to Vote on Octavius Catto’s Birthday
On this day in 1839, Octavius V. Catto, aka Caroline LeCount’s partner, was born. Catto would go on to serve in the National Guard, recruit other African Americans to serve in the military, help establish Philadelphia’s Negro League Baseball (go Pythians), worked to integrate streetcars, and was assassinated after exercising his sacred right to vote. You know what you need to do: Register. To. Vote.
MARCH 2026
February 28 through March 8: Breathe Deep at the Philadelphia Flower Show
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) is bringing back the world’s largest indoor flower show. Your $40-$50 adult admission, pricey though it may be, does help fund the org’s greening of our fair city, which could use a few more trees, to be sure. PA Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street
March through May: Give Away Your Gown (or Tux):
Truth: No way you — or your kid — wears that frock / penguin suit ever again. Give it to the Career Wardrobe in Philly and Upper Darby. (Special request for XL-5XL dresses and size 10-14 women’s formal shoes).
March 10: Buy a Book at a Black-Owned Bookshop on Harriett Tubman Day
When this day becomes a federal holiday, you can thank bookstore owner Jeannine Cook, who named her Fishtown shop after Tubman, named her Collingswood, NJ location after Ida B. Wells, and started a movement (and a petition) to make March 10 the first American holiday recognizing a Black woman. And shop at Harriett’s and Ida’s.
March 15: Pretend You’re Irish at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
You could ride / drink the Erin Express, but the real Irish Philadelphians come to the annual parade on the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day. The procession begins on March 16 at 11am at 16th and JFK Boulevard, and proceeds along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to Eakins Oval / the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
March 24: Eat a Whiz Wit on National Cheesesteak Day
Anywhere you find yourself, be it the meccas of Pat’s and Geno’s, the hidden gems like John’s Roast Pork or Angelo’s, or your corner papi store, you should know your order — and know that whatever you’re chomping, it’s now Michelin-recognized.
March 26: Catch the Phillies Home Opener
Opening day is usually too cold to be outside. We’ll brave the chill, because we believe. Go Phils! Beat the Rangers! The game is pretty much always sold out, but tickets are (also always) available on Stubhub. (Game time: 3:05pm.)
March 28 and 29: Savor Spring at the Cherry Blossom Festival
Shofuso — the 17th-century-style Japanese house and garden gifted to Philadelphia in 1953 — remains one of the hidden gems of Fairmount Park. Except, that is, over one weekend, when everyone gathers beneath pink cherry blossoms to celebrate Japanese culture. (Earlier this year, as spring weather seems to arrive earlier lately.)
APRIL 2026
April 5: Catch South Street’s Historic Easter Promenade
The 93rd-such procession includes fancy bonnets (hats) and folks in their Sunday best (and a contest to prove it). From 5th and South streets.
Starting April TBA: Shop the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park
The Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park features over 80 vendors offering native cuisine dishes, culturally specific produce, plants, clothing and jewelry, as well as services provided by entrepreneurs speaking multiple languages. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Pay as you go. Picnic Area 17, near FDR Park Drive and S. Broad Street
April TBA : Clean Up Our City!
Philadelphia’s citywide cleanup, typically takes place 9am to 2pm on a Saturday. Take part in the 18th annual such event by signing up here — or DIYing.
April TBA: Stroll Open Streets in Rittenhouse
Open Streets: West Walnut returns will hopefully return every weekend — in 2025, it was Sundays from 10am to 5pm — offering seven blocks closed to cars and open to pedestrians, along with live music and performances and a family zone. 18th Street from Locust to Chestnut and Walnut Street from 15th to 19th
April 11: Help an Animal on National Pet Day
Every human companion to a pet knows: Fur babies are the best babies. Philadelphia has long struggled to shelter all of our city’s un-homed animals. Here are 10 ways you can help, ranging from low-commitment — Take a dog for a walk! Donate used towels! Take a cat’s photo! — to the life-changers, like adopting a new barking or meowing family member.
April TBA: Kick Off One Book One Philadelphia
Each year, the Free Library Foundation launches a new season of One Book, One Philadelphia. It’s a unique-to-Philly literary tradition in a region where we’d love to see a higher literacy rate. The Philadelphia Citizen is a proud sponsor of the Free Library Foundation. 1901 Vine Street
April 19: Show Your True Colors for the Phanatic’s Birthday
Before there was Gritty, there was this green, Galápogan big-bellied, silly-snouted creature, still the best mascot in all of baseball. For all the joy you’ve given us (since 1978!), Phillie Phanatic, we thank you. Feel free to sit on us during a home game.
April 22: Fight Climate Change on Earth Day
Here are more more than 50 ways to save Planet Earth, mostly easy:
April 23 through 25: Catch Up with the Penn Relays
The oldest (and arguably best) track and field competition in the nation takes place every year among middle schoolers through seniors — with plenty of future Olympians and NCAA stars in-between) at the University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field.
April 23 through May 3: Get your Stage Fix during Philly Theatre Week
All across and beyond town, small to large theaters offer reduced prices and extra shows to inspire you to check out what’s onstage in Philly.
April 27 through May 1: Take Part in National Youth Violence Prevention Week
No need to tell any Philadelphian about what’s happening with our kids. Too many children — because that’s what they are — are becoming victims and culprits of violence, most notably, gun violence. We can’t keep blaming parents. We need to fix this ourselves. Here’s how:
MAY 2026
May 3: Read the News on World Press Freedom Day
Pick up a newspaper: Maybe the Philadelphia Daily News or Philadelphia Tribune, or an Inquirer. Make a donation to a nonprofit newsroom that’s actively working to solve seemingly intractable Philadelphia problems … like, oh, I don’t know, The Philadelphia Citizen?
May 3: Support Runners at the Broad Street Run
You could stand between Central and the Navy Yard, cheering on the 40,000 runners, maybe even seeing a friend among them. Or, you could join them. Run with Back on My Feet, which helps people going through crisis through … running. Or sponsor a youth runner from Girls on the Run or Students Run Philly Style.
May 4: Last Day to Register to Vote Before the Primary Election on May 19
May 4 to 8: Do an Educator a Solid during Teacher Appreciation Week
Some believe a solid education, fueled by teachers and support staff who double as mentors, is the most essential solution of all. Shoutout to all the educators who look after our kids from pre-K to post-grad. Here are some ways to help teachers (and therefore students) here in Philly.
May 9 and 10: Shop for Mom at Art Star Bazaar
Art Star’s annual shopping event has become a Mother’s Day weekend tradition in Philadelphia, where crafters from across the country come to vend handmade wares. It’s not to be missed.
May 12: Last Day to Request a Mail-In or Absentee Ballot Before the Primary Election on May 19
May TBA: Climb the Greased Pole (or just watch) at the S. 9th Street Italian Market Festival
It’s loud. It’s crowded. There’s a greased pole that’s pretty much daring every post-championship pole climber to tackle it, en masse. There’s live and DJ’ed music. And, cannoli. And giant pineapple drinks and lines out the doors of Di Bruno Bros, Claudio’s, Fante’s … It’s slightly obnoxious and kinda blissful.
May 19: Vote in the Primary Election
Polls are open from 7am to 8pm.
May 25 through July 6: Catch the Philadelphia Latino Film Festival
You are reading the date right: There are so many films to screen and see, the PHLAFF needs more than a month to put them on, host panels about them, and celebrate them in parties across the city.
May 25: Honor Fallen Military on Memorial Day
Memorial Day began after the Civil War to honor members of the military who lost their lives in battle. Should you be feeling patriotic and / or grateful for the sacrifices made by service members and the people who loved them, pay your respects at Philadelphia National Cemetery in West Oak Lane at 6909 Limekiln Pike.
May 31: Ride (or Run, or Walk) like an Eagle at the Eagles Autism Challenge
We’ve got a whole lot to be proud of in our one-and-only NFL team. One of the many off-the-field reasons to love our Birds: The good they do in our community and around the world. The Eagles’ biggest effort: Find a cure for and improve the lives of people with autism. So far, they’ve raised millions toward this goal.
Folks who fundraise enough (starting at $250) can take part in the team’s annual Autism Challenge, with options to bike, run, or take part in a sensory walk.
May TBA: Come Back to The Roots Picnic
The OG Roots Picnic is and will always be in Philly. You can imitate, but you can’t duplicate. See what all the fuss is justly about, at The Mann. Dates and performers TBA.
JUNE 2026
All June: Celebrate Pride
Each year, we kick off Pride with the Philly Pride March, starting at 6th and Walnut streets and continuing to 11th and Walnut. (Just follow the nation’s largest rainbow flag — 600 feet long.) Afterwards, 11th and Walnut becomes the entrance to a Gayborhood-wide festival. Free. 6th and Walnut Streets to 11th and Walnut street
June 14: Do Up Odunde
This proud, woman-founded, extra lively West South Street tradition merges African and African American traditions into unbridled Black joy on the Second Sunday in June.
June 19: Celebrate Juneteenth — and Feel Great About It
It’s been three years since President Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday, giving all Americans the opportunity to celebrate the end of slavery. Take this opportunity to visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (701 Arch Street), support Black-owned businesses that do good, catch a parade — or to just listen.
June TBA: Check out the Chinese Lantern Festival
The annual tradition alights on Franklin Square for a nearly-all-summer stay, featuring dozens of giant, colorful light-up displays, live staged performances, a cocktail garden and food. Paid tickets required. 6th and Race streets
June 21: Head to West Philly’s Epic Juneteenth Parade
The annual parade — planned for the concourse across from the Mann Center — is a jubilant who’s who of Black Philadelphia and culminates in a family-friendly festival at Malcolm X Park.
JULY 2026
July 4: Catch the Fireworks on Independence Day
Anyone who thought they knew what the Fourth of July was like in Philly surely has thought again. The city resumes its historic status as the country celebrates its 250th — since the Declaration of Independence — and the multi-day Welcome America has ramped up with parades, concerts and fireworks, including the biggest of the year over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Mid-July (TBA): Get in your licks at the Ice Cream Festival outside Reading Terminal Market
Every July, the block outside the Reading Terminal Market is an all-scream kind of spot, with an annual Ice Cream Festival on Filbert Street that celebrates local makers — — plus onsite vendors like Bassett’s and Flying Monkey. Demonstrations too. Pay as you go. 11th & Filbert streets
Mid-July (TBA): Go to the Barnes on the Block
Now in its ninth year, the Barnes, in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia, hosts the Barnes on the Block, a free, outdoor celebration for all featuring art, featuring live music, food trucks, a beer garden, art-making activities. If you want to go inside the esteemed museum, you can — and for free — but register ahead. 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
AUGUST 2026
Early August (TBA): Catch BlackStar.
Now in its 13th year, this 100-film, three-theater festival is about more than the screen. It’s about the gathering BIPOC members of the film industry, and film lovers in general. It’s also about accessibility. And wellness. Don’t miss BlackStar. Last year’s price for an all-access festival pass was $350, and virtual screening pass: $175; individual event and screening ticket prices vary.
August: It’s Hot Out. Have a Beer.
Go to a Philadelphia brewery that does more than brews and serves delicious pilsners, ales, and whatnot. Go to a Philadelphia brewery that does good for its community.
13 fantastic Philly breweries that do good.
August TBA: Bug Out at BugFest.
City dwellers, more than others, tend to shy away from 80 percent of the earth’s species — insects. The Academy of Natural Sciences aims to calm nerves, open minds and maybe even help save the planet with its annual weekend long BugFest, taking place indoors and outdoors.
SEPTEMBER 2026
September 7: Give Unions a Fair Shake On Labor Day.
Let’s review some American history: Workers created unions as protection against on-the-job exploitation and discrimination. Here, a union president argues why we still need them. The Sheet Metal Workers Union hosts the city’s annual parade, typically 8:30am to 2pm, starting at 1301 and ending at 101 S. Columbus Boulevard.
September 7: Celebrate the Barrio
A Puerto Rican block party takes over El Centro del Oro along N. 5th Street between Huntingdon and Somerset — for the 42nd annual celebration of the neighborhood’s island roots and culture, Taller Puertorriqueño’s Feria del Barrio on September 7.
Mid-September (TBA): Join in Welcoming Week
The City of Philadelphia contributes to this national holiday through the Office of Immigrant Affairs. Free events to be announced.
Mid-September (TBA): Celebrate Mexican Independence Day
Penn’s Landing typically hosts an all-afternoon festival of Mexican culture, including cuisine, dancing, crafts, and music. Free. 101 S. Columbus Boulevard
Mid-September (TBA) Partake in Kensington’s Funnest Day
The 18th annual Kensington Derby & Arts Festival takes over Frankford Avenue in a show of pride every fall. Join the thousands who watch (or the dozens who dare) the clever obstacle course parade. Enjoy plenty of food, drink, art, handmade goods and live music along the route. Free. Frankford Avenue from Sargent to York Streets
September 15: Recognize Democracy Day.
“Democracy,” the saying goes, “is not a spectator sport.” As the The Washington Post’s Jennifer Rubin told us at an Ideas We Should Steal Festival, “Unless you participate, it’s going to fail. Run for office. Join a campaign. Don’t just give money. Don’t just write a check. Subscribe to a newspaper. Do something. Become a political participant.”
Late September (date TBA): Watch Polo in Fairmount Park
Not something you see every day — or any day — in Philly, two classic polo matches among international champions take place in Fairmount Park to benefit the Work to Ride program, housed at the Chamounix Equestrian Center. Dress fancy.
September 24: Let Loose on Gritty’s Birthday
Wear orange. Be weird. Have fun.
September 27: Go Down to the Parkway for the Puerto Rican Day Parade
Bring out the flags — and get ready for an all-day party during this annual procession of island (and Philly) pride along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from noon to 6pm.
OCTOBER 2026
October dates TBA: Get your Design in a Concentrated Dose at the DesignPhiladelphia Festival
Not just for architects and interior designers — but definitely informed by them — this annual celebration includes a bunch of panels, parties and even kid-friendly programming.
Through late October (date TBA): Eat Your Heart Out at the Southeast Asian Market
What began with a couple selling papaya from a van parked along the South Philly lakes’ loop is now a culinary phenomenon. The Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park draws major weekend crowds for coconut rice served in bamboo stalks, stuffed Cambodian chicken wings, sugarcane juice, Vietnamese coffee — and all the grilled meats on sticks. Open Saturdays and Sundays 10am to 6pm, with exceptions during events at the park, 1900 Pattison Avenue
Mid-October (TBA): Catch the Nation’s Biggest Coming Out Day Parade
The city celebrates Coming Out Day with the National Coming Out Parade, starting at Independence Mall, heading to the Gayborhood — and continues with an all-day festival and resource fair the next day, featuring a family zone, food trucks and performances throughout the Gayborhood — all part of OURFest.
Also: Consider supporting a local LGBTQ+ cause or two.
October 12: Honor Indigenous People
All of Philadelphia was once the domain of the Lenni Lenape. On this, the day that used to be Columbus Day, we have a chance to celebrate them. Here’s how:
Mid-October (two weekends, dates TBA): Go on an Open Studio Tour
For two weekends — and the 27th year — the Center for Emerging Visual Artists invites Philadelphia artists to open their work spaces to the public. Drawing back the curtain on the artistic process, makers of fine arts share their secrets and inspirations. The first weekend, tours take place in art studios East of Broad Street. The second, they’re West of Broad.
October 19: Hurry! It’s Your Last Day To Register to Vote before Election Day!
Pennsylvania gives eligible residents — ages 18 and over — the chance to register to vote for up to 15 days before an election. This makes October 19 the last day to register before Election Day on November 4. As a Philadelphian, as a citizen, this is one of the most crucial things to do. So, do it.
October 24-25: Be Part of a Schuylkill River Tradition
The 56th Head of the Schuylkill Regatta brings more than 8,000 rowers — collegiate, high school, elite and masters — to the boathouses and waters beyond the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Join the 20,000 plus spectators watching along Kelly Drive all day October 24 and 25.
October 27: Hurry! It’s the Last Day to Request a Mail-In or Absentee Ballot Before the General Election on November 3
NOVEMBER 2026
Early November (TBD): Celebrate Day of the Dead, South Philly Style.
South 9th Street’s Day of the Dead Festival honors ancestors and traditions while celebrating life with music, dance, food, art, and a collective ofrenda on 9th and Washington Avenue. Pay as you go. S. 9th Street between Federal and Christian streets
November 3: Vote.
Who’s on the ballot? Representatives to the U.S. Congress and the governor. Midterm elections like this one typically attract low turnout, but have incredibly high impact.
November 11: Thank a Veteran
Veterans Day takes place midweek — on a Wednesday — this year, so make yourself an extra note to thank a veteran, support a veteran-owned business or both.
Mid-November (TBA): Show Parks Love
Just like in spring, dozens of public green spaces ask for your help every November, as part of Love Your Park Fall Weekend. Volunteer to clean, green, and celebrate — even an hour helps. Free. Parks citywide.
November 22: Cheer on the Philadelphia Marathon
Smaller and more grueling than spring’s Broad Street run, Philly’s annual 26.22-miler weaves around the city, and is in definite need of more spectators.
November 26: Discover an Old Parade
Now in its bajillionth year, Philadelphia’s Disney-ified, Dunkin-sponsored Thanksgiving Day Parade provides further proof that our city is really a small town just with lots more people.
DECEMBER 2026
December 3: Celebrate Rocky Day
On December 3, 1976, a little film called Rocky made its big-screen debut. Last year, December 3 officially became “Rocky Day,” Sylvester Stallone and all. Celebrate by running up and down the art museum steps, boxing some frozen beef, or shouting “Yo Adrian!” during your commute. 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway (at the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps)
December 7: Write a Letter
On National Letter Writing Day, think about someone you’ve been meaning to reach out to — a far-away friend, grandparent, sibling, anyone you’ve lost touch with — and take a few minutes to send them a card or drop them a line.
December 21: It’s Quinta Brunson’s Birthday. Respect your Teachers
The creator and star of Abbott Elementary made us fall in love again with Philadelphia’s public schools, warts and all — but especially with Philly educators. You know what they like: Gift cards for school supplies … and coffee shops.
MORE THINGS TO DO AND WAYS TO GET INVOLVED IN PHILADELPHIA
photo by Jessica Kourkounis