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Yes, it got here fast, but: Next Tuesday – aka May 19 -- is Primary Election Day, and this time around the biggest race is the 3rd Congressional District, which represents West Philadelphia, much of Center City and South Philadelphia, and some of North Philadelphia. Plus, we’ve got a governor's race and two important ballot questions.
We know you’re busy, so we’re gonna piggyback off the good people at the Philadelphia Citizen and point you to all that you need to know. So here goes….
· Who’s on the ballot? Go here.
· Who’s running for the 3rd Congressional District? Go here.
· What’s up with the ballot questions? Go here.
· Where and how to vote? Go here.
See you at the polls; we’ll bring the doughnuts!
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You’re Invited: CCRA’s Annual Meeting
Wednesday, May 20
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REMINDER
All members are encouraged to come to the annual meeting of CCRA membership. The event will include acknowledgement of board members rolling off and the election of new board members.
Come out, vote for, meet and schmooze with new board members (current, and new), officers and your neighbors. Light refreshments will be served.
We will be joined by Clint Randall, VP of Economic Development at Center City District, who will deliver their State of Center City report to our members and take a few questions. RSVP here.
CCRA Members-Only Annual Meeting
Wednesday, May 20, 7-8:30 pm
Curtis Institute, 1726 Locust Street
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Historical Tour of Rittenhouse Square | |
As part of Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary celebration, the Center City Residents Association (CCRA) and the Friends of Rittenhouse Square (FoRS) invite you to explore the history that shaped one of the city’s most recognizable neighborhoods.
Beginning in the 1830s, Rittenhouse Square developed into a sought-after residential address, known for its impressive homes and notable residents. This guided walking tour highlights the architecture, growth, and stories behind the Square’s transformation — offering fresh perspective on a place many of us pass every day.
Tour Overview
This approximately one-hour guided experience includes:
- A walking tour tracing the Square’s 19th-century development
- The history, art and architecture of Rittenhouse Square, the public park that continues to serve as the heart of our extraordinary community
For details and/or more info, “goat” to here.
| | CCRA Neighbors’ Night Out. An Invitation from CCRA’s President | | |
Join with your neighbors to celebrate the start of summer with CCRA Neighbors Night Out, at the posh restaurant Veda. All our happy hours are great, but this one will be special! Veda is an upscale eatery with a modern Indian vibe and a tantalizing menu.
The ticket price includes appetizers galore and 1 drink. Mix, Mingle and tell your friends. This event is open to non-members as well.
I’m looking forward to schmoozing with all of you.
Register here. Tickets are $20 for members, and $25 for non-members.
Best,
Nathaniel Margolies
President, CCRA
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On April 29th, the CCRA Trash Committee hosted a webinar for property management companies operating in Center City West. We invited more than 70 companies and nearly 150 employees to discuss the challenges facing our nearly 70% renter community and the ongoing issue of sidewalk trash.
Disappointingly, only three individuals from three separate property management companies attended the webinar.
It is clear that residents must continue advocating for their own
blocks. Our partners at the Department of Sanitation and SWEEP urge everyone to contact 311 when trash is set out incorrectly. These reports not only help the City identify problem areas, but also trigger SWEEP enforcement and follow-up.
Residents can also respectfully contact property management companies directly, including sharing photos when buildings are not following the Department of Sanitation’s trash set-out guidelines.
There is also encouraging news: we recently met with the Commissioner of Sanitation and Assistant Chief Administrator of SWEEP and their educational letter has now been sent to hundreds of property owners across Center City West. Their letter warns of proper practices, upcoming enforcement, and associated fines.
We cannot emphasize this enough: one of the biggest contributors to sidewalk trash is the use of paper bags for household trash and recycling containers. Proper containment is essential to keeping our sidewalks clean.
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On Tuesday, April 28, CCRA held it's monthly zoning committee meeting. In case you missed it, view the report here.
The May zoning meeting has been cancelled.
| A Sanity Link for Driving in Town during the 250th | |
It’s gotta happen some time this spring/summer. You need to get back in, around, or outta town. In the midst of this fantabulous 250th. But how?
Uber’s on “surge” pricing; it’s too far to walk; grab a bike? Scary!
Have we got a solution for you! Well, actually, the city does (we know….”city” and “solution” don’t usually go in the same sentence). It’s a driver’s last hope of sanely navigating the city in the midst of celebrations. Let your keyboard transport you to this city run website that will tell you what streets are closed, what for, and when.
Brilliant plan. Let’s hope it works. Safe travels.
| | Say Hello to Merchant Partner and Boutique Hotel Hyatt Centric! | | |
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 feature Merchant Partner Hyatt Centric Hotel!
Say Hello to Merchant Partner and Boutique Hotel Hyatt Centric!
When family and friends are in from out of town, is there a better idea than a modern, upscale hotel right in the heart of Center City? Short answer? No.
Let us please introduce CCRA Merchant Partner, the Hyatt Centric Hotel!
It’s new, it’s stylish, it’s tres cool—and only steps away from all that Center City has to offer.
The Hyatt Centric features inspiring rooms and suites with bold colors and stunning city views, and its staff of true locals can point you to their favorite downtown spots to explore and enjoy.
Your friends and family can check into one of their 310 thoughtfully designed rooms or 22 contemporary suites and then check out the best of Center City: the Rittenhouse Square vibe, the top-flight restaurants, the many museums, the upscale shopping… well, you know. That’s why you live here.
And CCRA Members, proud Philadelphians and gracious hosts that they are, receive up to a 20% discount on room rates. Restrictions may apply.
What’s not to love?
Spread the word about the Hyatt Centric Hotel!
| | Commemorating the 2026 Philadelphia Ride of Silence | | |
The Ride of Silence returns to Center City on Wednesday, May 20, gathering local cyclists for a poignant, 8-mile journey through our neighborhood. This annual international event serves as a moving memorial for those injured or killed while cycling on public roads, while simultaneously raising awareness for the legal rights of bicyclists to share the streets safely.
Participants will meet at the North Apron of City Hall (1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard) for a short memorial ceremony starting at 6:45 pm. The ride itself commences shortly after, moving at a somber, inclusive pace of 9.5 miles per hour. This ensures that cyclists of all skill levels can join the procession as it winds through the heart of Philadelphia, eventually concluding at the Art Museum for a traditional memorial bike lift.
In keeping with the event's name, the entire route is ridden in silence. This quiet presence provides a powerful visual for motorists and pedestrians, emphasizing the vulnerability of riders and the shared goal of achieving a year with zero bicyclist fatalities. Whether you are a daily commuter or a weekend enthusiast, the ride offers a unique way to show solidarity with the local cycling community.
The event is free to attend and will take place rain or shine. While there is no cost to participate, organizers encourage riders to RSVP in advance to help with coordination and safety planning. It’s a meaningful way to spend a Wednesday evening, reflecting on road safety while enjoying the unique perspective of our city streets at dusk.
For more details on the route or to reserve your spot, please visit the official event page: Ride of Silence 2026 - Philadelphia.
| | Take a Walk on the Philly Side | | |
Beginning May 29 - 31 through October 23 - 25, and coinciding with the 250th Birthday festivities, the City of Philadelphia will be sponsoring a series of twenty free historical, cultural walking tours or “Neighborhood Jawnts” (standing for “join a weekly neighborhood tour”) to honor the city’s diverse neighborhoods and explore the “murals, markets, spiritual sights and ‘dreams’ that made the area what it is today.”
The tours will take place every weekend on Fridays from 2 - 5 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am - 1 pm and 2 - 5 pm. Registration is required and opens up three weeks in advance. A full list of the tours and additional information can be found here.
| | Six Days. One River. Endless Views. | | |
Row, row, row your boat! Paddle your way along the Schuylkill River.
Join the Schuylkill River Greenways for their annual Schuylkill River Sojourn. Paddle for up to six unforgettable days on the water, with an option for as little as one day. The full tilt will take you more than100 miles starting at Schuylkill Haven, PA and ending at Boathouse Row.
The adventure runs Saturday, June 13 through Friday, June 19, and you can sign up for the full journey or hop in for individual days along the route.
Each day covers 14–18 miles, with rates starting at $130 for adults and $75 for youth under 16. Meals are included.
Ready to make a splash?
Learn more here. To register, go here.
| | Capture the Magic: The 2026 Wissahickon Photo Contest | | |
Dust off your favorite lens and head to the trails! The 2026 Biennial Wissahickon Photo Contest is now officially open for submissions.
Hosted by the Friends of the Wissahickon, Wissahickon Trails, and Woodmere Art Museum, this competition invites photographers of all levels to showcase the timeless beauty and unique perspectives of our local valley. The contest is open for entries from now until October 15, 2026.
This year features seasonal categories—Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter—allowing you to submit work captured over the last three years within the Wissahickon Valley Park, along the Green Ribbon Trail, or on Wissahickon Trails managed preserves. Winners will be announced on October 29, with prizes including $150 for Best in Show, $75 for People’s Choice, and $50 for the Best Phone Camera Submission.
Participants may enter up to four high-resolution photos. Whether you’re a professional with a tripod or a casual hiker with a smartphone, this is a wonderful opportunity to have your work recognized by the community and celebrated by local art and conservation organizations.
Entering is easy and can be done entirely online. It’s a great excuse to explore the park during the upcoming summer months or dig through your archives for that perfect shot of a snowy Forbidden Drive or a vibrant autumn canopy.
For the full list of rules and to submit your photos, visit the official 2026 Wissahickon Photo Contest page.
| | Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion | 18th Annual Roots Picnic at Fairmount Park to feature Jay-Z and Erykah Badu | |
Now in its 18th year, the wildly popular and massive (last year’s event attracted an estimated 30,000 attendees on each of its two days) Roots Picnic will return to a new location (Belmont Plateau) in Fairmount Park on May 30 and 31.
The annual music and cultural festival, curated and hosted by Philly’s own legendary Roots crew will feature a stellar lineup across two stages including Jay-Z, Erykah Badu, Brandy and T.I., and local Philly arts rapper Amir Ali and vocalist Beano French, as well as some of the best hip hop and R&B DJs spinning turntables all weekend.
In addition to the amazing musical lineup, the festival will include food from a curated group of local restaurants, with a focus on Black-owned business, presenting their signature dishes, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. For more information about the event, including how to obtain one and two day tickets, head here.
| Queer Tribe Craft Night comes to Rittenhouse! | |
Queer, Jewish, and in your 20’s or 30’s? Come on out to Rittenhouse Square for Queer Tribe Craft Night on Monday, May 18 from 6 to 8 pm. Bring your “sewing, knitting, coloring, chainmail, collaging, beading or whatever else makes you feel creative.”
The event’s sponsor, Tribe 12, will provide blankets and snacks, as well as coloring books and supplies for those who may want to join but don’t have a craft to bring.
Tribe 12 connects people in their 20’s or 30’s to Jewish life and community in Philadelphia “so that they will stay connected tomorrow.” It welcomes people who identify as Jewish, whose partner is Jewish or who is contemplating Judaism. Fee for the event is $5. For more information, including how to register and requests for special accommodations, stop by here for details.
| Open Lab: Where Science Meets Art | |
Ever walk along 23rd Street, toward South, and wonder what goes on at the Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts? It looks intriguing, but rarely open to the public.
This is your opp, folks! The center has been preserving our world’s cultural heritage here in Philadelphia since 1977. Their upcoming Open House is an opportunity to glimpse behind-the-scenes of the work that they do and to meet their skilled and knowledgeable staff.
In their state-of-the-art lab, their expert conservators will share some of the exciting projects that they’ve been working on – whether they be rare books, unique works of art, or priceless historical documents.
See you there! 264 South 23rd Street, Wednesday, May 20, from 5 - 7:30 pm. Register here.
| Real Time Real Estate: This Month | |
As a lifelong resident of Rittenhouse and Fitler Square, I’ve seen firsthand why these neighborhoods remain among Philadelphia’s most desirable. Despite a shifting real estate market, buyers continue seeking the walkability, charm, community, and lifestyle these neighborhoods uniquely offer.
Inventory remains tight, and well-priced, move-in-ready homes — especially those with outdoor space, parking, or thoughtful renovations — continue to attract strong interest. Rittenhouse remains Philadelphia’s premier luxury neighborhood, while Fitler Square appeals to buyers seeking a quieter, village-like feel close to Center City.
Buyers today are more strategic, carefully evaluating homes and condo buildings, but demand remains strong for quality properties. What truly sets these neighborhoods apart is their enduring sense of community, vibrant streets, and timeless appeal. In 2026, Rittenhouse and Fitler Square continue to prove that great neighborhoods never go out of style.
Your neighbor,
Kate Federico
Katefederico@compass.com
| Community News and Events | | Strategy Meets Socializing: The 2nd Place Race Bar Crawl | | |
Get ready for a competition where being the best means being... second!
The 2nd Place Race returns to Rittenhouse on Saturday, June 6, offering a unique twist on the traditional bar crawl. This scavenger hunt challenges teams to navigate the neighborhood, solve puzzles, and complete challenges at various local spots, with the ultimate goal of finishing in second place on the leaderboard.
The event kicks off at 5 pm at Quig’s, located at 1714 Delancey St. From there, teams will head out into Center City, visiting popular neighborhood mainstays like Devil’s Alley and City Tap House Logan Square. Unlike a standard race, teams can trade points and adjust their strategy in real-time, making it as much a game of wit and coordination as it is a social outing.
This event is recommended for residents ages 21 and older, and all participating locations are within easy walking distance of Rittenhouse Square. It’s a fantastic way to spend a Saturday evening exploring familiar haunts with a new objective, all while meeting fellow neighbors in a lighthearted, competitive environment.
Tickets for the event are $26.50 per person. Beyond the fun and games, your participation supports a good cause, as proceeds from the race benefit the Paper Doll Ensemble, a Philadelphia-based theater group. Whether you’re a master strategist or just looking for a unique night out, aim for that silver medal!
For tickets and more information on the route, visit the official event page. To enter the race, click here.
| | Philly Phlotilla: Kayak from Walnut Street to Fort Mifflin | | |
Looking for a unique way to experience Philadelphia’s waterfront this summer? Join 100+ kayakers for the Philly Phlotilla hosted by Schuylkill River Greenways for their annual paddle on Saturday, July 11. This experience offers adventurers the chance to explore 8.5 miles along the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers while taking in some of the city’s most historic landmarks from the water.
The journey begins at the Walnut Street Docks at 9:30 am and ends at Fort Mifflin (6400 Hog Island Rd), where participants can enjoy a post-paddle celebration including food, drinks, ice cream, and guided tours of the historic fort.
Not interested in kayaking? You can still join the festivities at Fort Mifflin afterward and take part in the celebration on land. Shuttle transportation back to the Walnut Street Docks is not provided.
For additional details, pricing, tickets, and the full itinerary, visit Philly Phlotilla.
| | Tipsy Scoop Has Arrived in Rittenhouse! | | |
Here’s the inside scoop. Tipsy Scoop, the New York City based “barlour,” has debuted in the heart of Rittenhouse Square through a collaboration with BOTLD. Known for their alcohol infused ice cream, Tipsy Scoop is serving up cocktail inspired desserts that will tempt those who imbibe.
On the menu, you’ll find favorites like the Cake Batter Vanilla Martini and Dark Chocolate Whiskey Salted Caramel infused ice cream and dairy free options like their Raspberry Limoncello Sorbet.
Stop by Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday from 1 pm to 9 pm, or Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 10 pm, at 119 South 18th Street. Cash is not accepted.
| | Rittenhouse Fine Arts Show Returns! | |
The June Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Show returns for its 99th year on June 5-7. The show which will feature 145 artists was founded by artists in 1928 and is run by a committee of artists.
It will run from 11 am - 6 pm on Friday and Saturday and 11 am - 5 pm on Sunday. The show is one of two fine arts shows held annually at Rittenhouse Square.
A second show will be held on September 18-20, 2026. The show is free and open to the public.
For more information go here.
| Get Zen with Longevity Motion Zen | |
The Philadelphia Zen Meditation Center (230 S. Broad St.) is pleased to introduce a new four-session class called Longevity Motion Zen.
Longevity Motion Zen originated when Grandmaster Bodhidharma observed that practitioners spent too much time in stillness and too little in motion, leading to physical weakness and frequent illness. To address this, he taught this extraordinary practice at the Shaolin Temple to help monks cultivate health and strengthen their bodies.
These classes involve movement exercises focused on physical health and inner energy, making them ideal for those interested in motion, allowing the body and mind to feel relaxed, light, and at ease.
Class Details:
The four-session course will be led by center leader, Hualian Charlotte Hu.
When: Thursdays at 5 pm
Dates: May 21, May 28, June 4, and June 11
To learn more, visit here.
Philadelphia Zen Meditation Center is a non-profit organization. $10 donation requested.
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Editor – Barbara Halpern
Lead Writer – Richard Vaughn
Writer – Marc Werlinsky
Writer - Bob Vogel
Writer - Terry Demchak
Contributor - Bonnie Eisenfeld
| | 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. | | | | |
