The best things to do in Philadelphia this week

Explore all of the best things to do in and around Philadelphia: From upcoming events and art installations to the most picturesque date spots, we share all you need to know to make the most out of your week in Philly.

You can always find our favorite activities of the week at inquirer.com/things-to-do. Have an event you’d like to feature in the Inquirer? Submit an event to our calendar.

(Community) Ring in 2026 with community, art, and a lot of love. This bash has it all, including works from your favorite local artists, a dance party fueled by your favorite pop artists, drink specials and more.

⌚️Dec. 31, 9 p.m. — noon, 📍1023 Hamilton St., Philadelphia, Pa 19123, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 Pay-as-you-go

(Community) Whether you’re looking to raise a glass before or after the ball drops, Jet Wine Bar has you covered. They’re offering two parties, a pregame or postgame. Both include delicious food and two drink tickets. Eat, drink, and bring in a New Year the right way.

⌚️Dec. 31, 📍1525 South St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19146, 🌐 jetwinebar.com, $45

(Community) You can’t ring in a bright new year without a spectacular fireworks show. Head to the Delaware River waterfront for two epic fireworks shows, set to an amazing soundtrack. The shows can be viewed for free from various points along the waterfront, including Race Street Pier, Washington Avenue Pier, Dave and Busters, Rivers Casino, and more.

⌚️ Dec. 31, 6 p.m. and midnight, 📍Various locations, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free

(Music) The Philadelphia Orchestra is providing the perfect soundtrack to kick off a New Year. Enjoy a selection of songs from iconic films like Sunset Boulevard, Citizen Kane, The Wizard of Oz, and more, with a complimentary champagne toast.

⌚️Dec. 31, 7 p.m., 📍300 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19102, 🌐ensembleartsphilly.org, 💵 $57-187

(Community) The Philadelphia Mummers Parade is one of the city’s longest standing New Year traditions. More than 10,000 Mummers will strut down Broad Street in elaborate costumes in bold brigades, with lively and fun performances along the route. Grab a free spot to watch for free and enjoy the show.

⌚️Jan. 1, 9 a.m., 📍Starting at Broad Street, from City Hall South to Washington Ave., Philadelphia, Pa, 🌐 phlvisitorcenter.com, 💵 Free

(Community) Lisa Lisa and her dynamic group of drag performers are putting on a show that you won’t want to miss. Stop by to see some of the best in drag, and be ready to dance and sing along.

⌚️Jan. 1, 8-10 p.m., 📍1509 South St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19146, 🌐 eventbrite.com, 💵 $28

(Community) This journaling and yoga workshop will help you start your new year with purposeful intention. You’ll start with a gentle yoga flow led by certified teacher Monica Fable. Then, you’ll work through a series of journaling prompts to help you plan out the year of your dreams.

⌚️Jan. 1, 1-2:30 p.m., 📍4522 Baltimore Ave., Philadelphia, Pa, 19143, 🌐 universitycity.org, 💵 $25

The countdown to the new year provides plenty of activities for little Philadelphians. Early NYE bashes, carousel rides, superheroes, and, of course, the Mummers Parade. Events that help turn the end of the winter break into something special for kids and grown-ups alike.

(Seasonal) This popular celebration has all the elements of a classic NYE party — DJs, live music, clowns (maybe not that traditional), and a giant confetti drop. What’s more, all that is done in two-and-a-half-hour sessions, while it’s still light out. Ages 0-5.

⌚Dec. 31, 9-11:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m., 📍4231 Ave. of the Republic, Philadelphia, Pa. 19131, 🌐 pleasetouchmuseum.org, 💵 $30

(Seasonal / free) Another way-before-midnight tradition. Franklin Square’s pay-as-you-go evening includes access to the carousel, street curling, crafts (5-6 p.m.), mini golf, warming tent with cocoa and treats, and light show over the old fountain. From several spots in the park, you can also see those early fireworks before the park closes. All ages.

⌚Dec. 31, 5-8 p.m., 📍200 N. 6th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 historicphiladelphia.org, 💵 Free entry

(Seasonal) Just like last year, the official theme of this early evening celebration features superheroes. Spiderman, Black Panther, and Captain America plan to visit. Kids can DIY capes and shields and train up for superheroism. There are also robots to make, DJ’ed music, games, a balloon drop — and 6 p.m. fireworks over the Delaware River to ogle at. All ages.

⌚Dec. 31, 5- p.m., 📍121 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 cherrystreetpier.com, 💵 $27

(Seasonal) The first of the skating rink’s two New Year’s Eve parties tends to be the one with a younger crowd. Arrive early to rent a big, blue skate helper. Admission includes ice-skating rink access, a spin on the Ferris wheel, treats, and a prime view of those early fireworks. Arcade and carnival games cost extra. Rain or shine. Price does not include parking. Ages 4 and up.

⌚Dec. 31, 5-8 p.m., 📍101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 showclix.com, 💵 $63; $53 for nonskaters

(Parade / free) It’s a rite of passage for Philadelphia families: Bundle up the littles, strap them into their strollers, and head to S. Broad Street for an hour or so of music and color while jumping up and down to stay warm on the sidewalk. (Other options include purchasing tickets for the outdoor bleachers at City Hall or indoor seats for the Fancies competition at the PA Convention Center.) All ages.

⌚ Jan. 1, 9 a.m. parade, 11:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. finale, 📍Parade: S. Broad St. from Market St. to Washington Ave., Philadelphia, Pa., 19147; finale: 1107 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19107, 🌐 phlvisitorcenter.com, 💵 Free-$43