#BILLYPENNGRAM OF THE DAY
Snapshot in time
(Photo by @therowhousecity)
Nobel Prize-winning mRNA technology that powers COVID-19 vaccines. Engineered CAR T-cell therapies to treat leukemia and other cancers. The first gene therapy to reverse a type of hereditary blindness.
Those are latest in a long line of innovations and advances dating back to 1765. That’s when Dr. John Morgan proposed that his alma mater — called The College of Philadelphia at the time — follow the example of institutions he’d observed in Europe and create its own medical program, and eventually the first medical school in the American colonies. Continue reading…
Philly is no stranger to the thrift store scene. Whether you need affordable and low-cost products or you’re looking for your next treasure, here is a list of local offerings. Continue reading…
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• The Pennsylvania House advanced a bill to increase minimum wage from the current $7.25 to $15 by 2029. Democrats previously failed in their efforts to pass similar legislation in 2023, 2024 and last year. [WHYY]
• Philly is unlocking $400M for housing. Here’s what that means for renters and homeowners. [WHYY]
• Pa. lawmakers passed a bill giving Philly bars the temporary option to stay open until 4 a.m. during the 40-day window around the FIFA World Cup. [PhillyVoice]
• A judge declined to halt renovations at FDR Park. Residents opposing the plan are trying again. [WHYY]
• Philly launches ‘Block Party Bonanza’ to raise community pride during America’s 250th summer celebrations. [WHYY]
• Phillies baseball is back! What new food, merch and events to look out for at Citizens Bank Park. [Billy Penn]
MAYOR WATCH
Mayor Parker has no public events scheduled on Thursday.
ON THE CALENDAR
⚽ Billy Penn’s FIFA World Cup Guide
🛍️ Thrifty in Philly guide
👭🏽 Women’s History Month in Philly
📚 Book lovers’ guide to Philly
🍹 Non-alcoholic Philly
🏃🏽 Philly Runners Guide
Thursday, March 26: Philadelphia After Dark: Designing a City That Works 24/7
Drawing from Philadelphia’s Nighttime Economy strategy, the talk will highlight how intentional planning, cross-sector collaboration, and thoughtful design can support businesses, residents, and visitors after dark. The discussion will also touch on how architects, planners, and creatives play a critical role. At the Philadelphia Ethical Society. FREE. (5:30 to 7 p.m.)
Thursday and Saturday, March 26 & 28: Voyage of Vignettes
Five shows in one! Multiple short theatrical worlds unfold through a series of imaginative vignettes—each with its own theme, visual style, and surprises. Expect thrilling stunts, whimsical characters, an interactive game show, and unexpected sensory delights. At Fringe Arts. $32.79 tickets. (7:15 to 8:50 p.m.)
Friday, March 27: a little bit dramatic market
A free indoor and outdoor market featuring 30+ vendors selling “vintage, Y2K and handmade” items, plus $5 and $10 bins, jewelry and more. At Thrive Career Cafe at 504 Cecil B. Moore Ave. Free RSVP. (2 to 7 p.m.)
Friday, March 27: Germantown Art & Sound
Join the 4th Friday for Germantown Art & Sound, a kickback for local creatives with an art show highlighting local artists. Complete with complimentary wine, live DJ, food truck and a playlist that is uniquely curated by guests. $10 suggested donation. (7 to 10 p.m.)
Saturday, March 28: South Philly Community Market
Head to the East Passyunk Community Recreation Center (1025 Mifflin St.) for mending, budgeting, copy editing, tarot art making, gardening and more. Free to attend. (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
Saturday, March 28: Streets Dept Excursion: Artists in Old City
Each month, Streets Dept leads curated walks around the “mural capital of the world.” For March, check out new work from artists in Old City, including a massive new mural and special walk-through of Paradigm Gallery to talk with two exhibiting artists. $19.36 tickets. (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
Saturday, March 28: Spring Grief Walk in Nature
The Philly Goat Project hosts this 2-hour program with a brief guided meditation and quiet 30-minute walk (goat walking optional) through Awbury Arboretum, with a few stops along the way for reflection. Then, a final hour devoted to “open sharing” depending on your comfort level. FREE. (12 to 2 p.m.)
Saturday, March 28: The Inquisitor: A WHYY Women’s History Month Screening
A free WHYY screening of “The Inquisitor,” a special documentary on Barbara Jordan, a revolutionary Texas congresswoman who shook up the political landscape with her work on civil rights and social reform. This is an examination of both her professional work and the very private life she led. At Philadelphia City Institute at 19th and Locust. (1 p.m.)
Saturday to Sunday, March 28-29: Japanese Tea Ceremony at Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival 2026
Held at the Horticulture Center Greenhouse, this 20-minute experience offers a peaceful pause within the festival to celebrate the spirit of spring and the beauty of cherry blossoms. Watch a tea-making demo, taste freshly whisked matcha and relax. $12.51 tickets. (12 to 4 p.m.)
Saturday, March 28: Anandibai: A Night of Music for a Philadelphia Icon
An evening of new music inspired by Anandibai Joshee, a Philadelphia icon and the first South Asian woman physician. $39.19 tickets. (7:30 to 9 p.m.)
Sunday, March 29: Workshop: Making Mummer Music
Get to know the style and history of Mummer String Band performance and learn to play a simple, classic Mummer song. Parts for saxophone and strings will be available. Some musical instrument experience is encouraged. (1 to 3 p.m.)
Through March 29: The Creative Alliance Show
Step into a world of color, connection, and creativity at this group exhibition at Cherry Street Pier featuring works by 40+ artists from one of Philadelphia’s most supportive artist communities.
Select Saturdays through April: A Deeply Rooted Trolley Tour
Harriett’s Bookshop brings back their popular three hour, hop on-hop off tour that celebrates local culture, history, music, and deeply rooted tradition by visiting new and seasoned spaces throughout Philadelphia. $73.34 tickets. (11 a.m. and 3 p.m. tour times)
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