This Week January 8, 2026 | | |
Get used to it, as it’s likely the Word of the Year already for 2026, and nowhere is that more true than here, in the Cradle of Liberty.
Fasten your seat belts. Here comes an estimated one million additional tourists, 52 Weeks of Firsts, 1776 The Musical, RockyFest 50 and oh yes, the MLB All-Star Game, the PGA
Tournament, March Madness and the FIFA World Cup. Whew. That’s kind of a lot. Are we sure we’re ready for this?
Can we make a suggestion? Get involved. Help out. Find some areas of interest, and check out the volunteer opportunities. Take a page from CCRA, whose volunteer board, committee chairs and CCRA members volunteer all throughout the year. What’s better, to sit on the sidelines, or to be a part of it?
Go 250th! Get in the game!
| | It’s Time for Us to TALK TRASH | | |
Many of you may have begun to see the impact of the lack of sidewalk cleaning in many areas of Center City West.
We invite you to share your concerns and ideas with neighbors, as well as city and private stakeholders, about our neighborhood’s trash challenges and start envisioning possible solutions on Tuesday, January 27, 7 pm at Trinity Memorial Church (22nd and Spruce.)
Advanced registration is preferred, but not required. Please register here or scan the QR code in the flyer.
We look forward to seeing you, and please, share this with your neighbors. All are welcome.
Jessica Kohles
The CCRA Trash Committee
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In the midst of snow flurries and snow squalls, focusing on the coming of spring seems like wistful thinking. No! It’s time to sow, grow, and help the bees have their spring fling. CCRA is co-sponsoring a Native Plant Seed Swap and Giveaway and Winter Seed Sowing Workshop.
For those who want to help nature's matchmakers, it’s on Saturday, 1/10, at the Markward Recreation Center. Space is limited. Check out the flyer below for details.
Sign up here.
| | For Those in Need: A Residential Disability Parking Space Near Your Home | | |
In Philadelphia, there are two special types of parking spaces which serve persons with disabilities.
Most people know that any vehicle bearing or displaying a disability parking permit can use disability parking spaces; persons with disability can apply for a disability parking permit placard through PennDOT, which permits use of these spaces.
However, you may not know that any person with disability can apply for a residential disability parking space, a reserved on-street parking space on the block where they reside. Once designated as a residential disability parking space, that space becomes license plate specific, and can only be used by the applicant.
To find out how to apply for a disability parking permit and for a residential disability parking space, read more here.
Alex Roederer,
CCRA Streets Committee Chair
| | CCRA MERCHANT PARTNER FEATURE: | | |
CCRA’s Merchant Partner program is a true Win-Win: It provides local businesses with complimentary advertising and exposure while giving CCRA members generous deals and discounts. This week we spotlight Merchant Partner City Fitness.
Work it, Baby: Such a Deal at City Fitness
Your clothes will love you as will your pocketbook when you take advantage of the discounts offered by CCRA Merchant Partner City Fitness.
CCRA is very happy to continue its Corporate Wellness partnership with City Fitness, which was recently voted Best Gym in the City, and it’s clear to see why. They have the best of everything: the latest machines, exercise bikes, steam rooms, saunas, hydro-massage… you name it.
And the discounted $34.99 bi-weekly rate includes all yoga and spin classes, all amenities, access to all six locations, and with no long-term commitment: you can stop anytime.
It also includes four Complimentary THRIVE semi-private training sessions and InBody consultation with a THRIVE coach, plus an additional $5 off the bi-monthly rate if you enroll in the “Tour of the City” program.
Seem too good to be true? Yes, it does. But it’s true, nonetheless. Details here.
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As of yesterday, January 7, 2026, the specific pit bull responsible for a series of violent attacks in Center City remains at large. While Philadelphia police have successfully taken the owner into custody on an unrelated retail theft warrant, the animal's whereabouts are still unconfirmed.
The owner has reportedly claimed the dog is with a relative but has so far refused to provide a specific address to investigators. This follows a string of incidents, including a December 29th attack at 12th and Chestnut that resulted in a miniature pinscher requiring a leg amputation, and a December 26th attack at Chestnut and Juniper that left a sheltie with shattered bones.
Identifying the Dog
While official descriptions have been limited, eyewitness accounts and local reports describe the dog as a pit bull mix with a light tan, blond, or white coat. In several recent sightings, the dog was seen wearing a blue coat or sweater. The dog is often associated with the area near the Wanamaker Building and 12th and Chestnut Streets.
Safety and Reporting
Community members are urged to remain highly vigilant when walking pets in the Center City area. If you see a dog matching this description, do not approach the animal or its handlers. Please contact the Philadelphia Police Department or 911 immediately with the exact location.
| | One More Strut: The Mummers Museum & South Philly Walk | | Photo credit: Margo Villanova | | |
Voted the best holiday parade in the U.S. by USA Today readers, Philadelphia's Mummers Parade celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2026.
This historic folk tradition featured string bands, comics, and fancy brigades strutting down Broad Street in elaborate costumes, offering a unique blend of music, satire, and festive culture. If you missed it, we can help. To celebrate the Mummers Parade's 125th anniversary in 2026, the FreeWalkers club is hosting the Philadelphia Mummers FreeWalk on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
This 8-mile urban walk is designed for fans who want to relive the magic or those who missed the New Year's Day festivities.
Event Details:
- Time: 9:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Start/End: LOVE Park (JFK Plaza); Feel Free to join or drop off anywhere along the route
- Route Highlights: A walk through South Philly—the heart of mummery—with stops at the Mummers Museum, the Schuylkill Banks, and the Delaware River trail.
- Difficulty: Beginner-friendly and paved.
Registration is free (donations appreciated) via Eventbrite or Meetup.
| | Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion | | Those Fabulous Philadelphians Play a Tribute to Dr. King | | |
The Philadelphia Orchestra, conducted by Thomas Wilkins, will host its free annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Tribute Concert at 3 p.m. on Monday, January 18, in the Kimmel Center’s Marian Anderson Hall. This musical and cultural tribute will feature performances by the choir of the Philadelphia High School for the Performing Arts and the Girard College High Choir, as well as from noted musical artists.
Click here for tickets and more information.
| | Havana Hop Performances Saturday, January 17 and Sunday, January 18 | | |
The Philadelphia Theatre Company at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre presents: Havana Hop. Geared towards children, this family-friendly performance blends dance, Cuban culture, and confidence into an exciting art and learning experience.
Click here to learn more about dates, tickets, and the sensory-sensitive show for children.
| | Real Time Real Estate: This Month | | A Warm New Year Welcome to our Members & Our Community | | |
As we welcome the New Year, we’re reminded of what makes Center City such a special place to live — vibrant neighborhoods, beautiful streetscapes, and a strong sense of community that connects us all. From historic blocks to lively corridors, Center City continues to feel both dynamic and deeply personal.
A Quick Look at the Local Real Estate Market
As 2025 closes, the Center City real estate market remains steady and thoughtful. While the pace has cooled from the highs of recent years, well-priced homes in desirable locations are still finding their buyers. Today’s market favors preparation, transparency, and realistic expectations — creating a healthier environment for both buyers and sellers.
As we move into 2026, a few trends are shaping the conversation:
- Ongoing demand for well-maintained condo and co-op buildings
- Increased attention to reserve funds, insurance, and long-term planning
- A continued appreciation for walkability, green space, and neighborhood amenities
- A growing number of residents choosing Center City as a long-term home
- Parking & outdoor space are always on the list!
- Pet friendly buildings.
- These thoughtful shifts help support both property values and overall quality of life.
Neighborhood Spotlight
This month, we’re shining a light on the everyday moments that make Center City feel like home — morning walks through Rittenhouse & Fitler Square, familiar faces at local cafés, and small businesses that anchor our blocks year after year. These simple routines, paired with thoughtful neighborhood stewardship, are what continue to make Center City such a desirable place to live.
Neighbors First
Beyond the market, what truly defines our neighborhood is its people. Our community thrives because residents care — about their buildings, their blocks, and one another. Civic engagement, local businesses, and community involvement continue to strengthen the fabric of Center City and make it a place we’re proud to call home.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and hopeful New Year. May 2026 bring connection, confidence, and continued joy in living in this amazing place we call home.
Cheers~ Katefederico@compass.com
| | Community News and Events | | A Review of Rousseau at The Barnes | | |
I thought I knew Rousseau based on his famous dreamlike and jungle-themed paintings, but I was pleasantly surprised to see early portraits of his family and neighbors at the current Barnes exhibition of 60 of his works.
Born in 1844, Rousseau worked for the Paris Customs Office, served in the army, and had no formal art training. He painted as a hobby and didn’t make much money selling his paintings, but Picasso was one of the early buyers. He had two wives; sadly five out of six of his children died. In one painting of himself and his second wife, the faces of the deceased spouses of each are floating above. In 1893, he retired and painted full-time and gained a reputation as a serious artist.
Bonnie Eisenfeld
| | Schuylkill River Trail Fully Reopens After Sinkhole Repairs | | |
For those who haven't yet seen the barrier tape removed, we have a welcome update regarding the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT). After a months-long closure that disrupted many of our morning commutes and weekend rides, the critical stretch between Race Street and JFK Boulevard officially reopened to the public on Christmas Eve.
The closure, which began on October 21, 2025, was triggered by the discovery of a massive 8-foot-deep sinkhole beneath the asphalt. Initial investigations by the Schuylkill River Development Corporation (SRDC) and city agencies identified gaps between the river’s steel bulkhead and sewer headwall, which had allowed river tides to slowly erode the soil over time.
The final repair involved a robust multi-step process: crews poured a foundational concrete layer before backfilling the cavity and laying new asphalt. While there was significant community concern that the repairs might stretch into late 2026, the collaboration between Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, the Water Department, and the Department of Streets allowed the path to return to service as a holiday gift to the city.
With the trail fully open, residents can once again enjoy an uninterrupted route along the riverbanks. We encourage everyone to stay alert for any new signage and, as always, to report any unusual trail conditions to the SRDC immediately.
| | Philadelphia is Among the Picks for ‘26 | | |
What do Philadelphia, Cairo, Vienna and Nuuk, Greenland have in common? They are among Architectural Digest’s 19 places to visit in 2026. With the goal of seeing as much of the world’s beauty as possible, AD took into account such factors as major cultural events and museum openings. Among our city’s attractions inviting AD’s attention is the new Calder Gardens, whose 18,000 square foot building was designed by AD 100 architects Herzog & de Meuron, and whose unique gardens were created by AD 100 landscape designer Piet Dudolf. Other noted attractions are the newly renovated 120-year-old Bellevue hotel, and the public programming at the new Village of Industry & Art, by designer-developer Scout, inside two former University of the Arts buildings. Fishtown received special mention for its food, culture and design.
Click here for more information and the complete list.
| | Our Common Ground: Celebrating 50 Years as Rittenhouse Square’s Caretakers and Makers | |
Friends of Rittenhouse Square Celebrates 50 Years in 2026.
In 2026, Friends of Rittenhouse Square will celebrate 50 years of service to our community. This nonprofit membership organization’s mission is to preserve, protect, and beautify Rittenhouse Square. In addition to hosting the traditional annual events such as the Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show, Rittenhouse Square Fine Craft Show, Ball on the Square, Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting events, the Friends has added Love Your Park Day, Ballet in the Square, Dog Days of Summer, Halloween Family Fun, and more. Over the years, the Friends have undertaken major projects; starting with planting azaleas around the perimeter of the Square, restoring the fountain, redesigning the Gardener’s Cottage, adding the Guard House to the center of the Square and Bronze Gates on the Gardeners' Cottage by sculptor Eric Berg, replacing 160 benches, adding clean-up and trash removal every day including holidays, and a multi-year lawn restoration project. Neighbors and visitors are grateful to this organization and their extraordinary team, for all they have done to make the park so enjoyable.
To join or to sign up for their newsletter, walk gently over to here.
| | Philadelphia Marks America's 250th with Historical Society Events | | |
The Historical Society of PA is excited to announce several January events to commemorate America's 250th anniversary in 2026.
- The Changing Faces of Independence: Pennsylvania in the 1800s – Opening Thursday, January 22.
- Philadelphia: An Early American Dance City – Wednesday, January 14
- Doers of Democracy (teacher workshop) – Wednesday, January 28
These programs take place at the Historical Society of PA located at 1300 Locust Street and offer Philadelphians meaningful ways to connect with the city's pivotal role in American history.
Click here to buy tickets.
| | Doors Are Closing! Philly's Elevated Trains and Trolleys Tour | |
Do you love history? Better yet, a Rail Buff? Want to know more about Philly’s subway system? If so, this tour is for you! Join Hidden City Philadelphia on Saturday, January 24 at 2 pm.
Philly’s Elevated Trains and Trolleys, a roughly two-hour walking and transit tour that explores the stories of Philly’s elevated rail and trolley lines. Travel from the hidden structures of 30th Street Station to the multi-modal 69th Street Terminal. Meet inside 30th Street Station at the Angel statue on the east side of the main hall.
Click here to buy tickets.
| | Reminder: Center City District’s Restaurant Week is Almost Here | | |
Organized by the CCD, Restaurant Week is here to brighten up your winter doldrums. From Sunday, January 18 through Saturday, January 31, dozens of Center City's top restaurants will be serving up exclusive menu discounts.
This is your chance to try that buzzed-about spot or revisit a long-time favorite without breaking the bank. Book it or weep! Deets and small print here.
| | Merchant Partners "Deals and Discounts" Program | | Please support our local merchants and save money too. These local merchants will provide a deal or discount to any member who shows a current CCRA membership card and personal identification. | | CCRA assumes no responsibility, and makes no representations or warranties, regarding any product and/or services sold by any Merchant Partner. | | | | |
