Supporters, civic leaders, business executives, and friends of Franklin Square gathered on June 2 for An Evening in Franklin Square, Historic Philadelphia, Inc.’s annual fundraising celebration and the exclusive first look at the 2026 Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival.

This year’s event carried special significance as Franklin Square celebrated 20 years since its transformation into one of Philadelphia’s most beloved public spaces.

Guests enjoyed cocktails and cuisine by Cescaphe, bid on silent auction items while mingling throughout the beautifully designed 7 acre park. (every year I bid on the birthday party, I know it’s for kids, but my friends would love to ride the carousel; I lost again.)

Guests including Councilperson Mark Squilla and Cindy Webster participated in the popular Parx Square Derby, celebrating it’s 20th year in 2026.

Managed by the non-profit Historic Philadelphia, Inc., which restored and maintains the park, Franklin Square features wide lawns, shady trees, and beloved attractions like the Rendell Family Fountain—with its stunning day and night water shows—Philly Mini Golf, the Parx Liberty Carousel, two playgrounds, and the popular SquareBurger run by Cescaphe.

The evening also provided a sneak peek of the 2026 Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival, which opens to the public June 5 and runs through August 16, features an entirely new collection of illuminated displays created by Chinese artisans. This year’s festival includes more than 1,100 individual lantern creations spread across nearly 40 displays, making it one of the largest presentations in the event’s history.

Among the highlights are the return of the festival’s iconic 200-foot dragon, elaborate animal and floral displays, glowing lantern corridors, and new exhibits celebrating both America’s 250th anniversary and Philadelphia’s role as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Guests will also discover lantern installations inspired by the Year of the Horse, as well as other zodiac signs. My favorite were the interactive displays especially the pandas , and colorful sculptures that transform every corner of the park into a photo-worthy experience.

The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival returns this summer, tomorrow >> Friday, June 5 – Sunday, August 16!

Experience the magic with an all-new collection of handcrafted Chinese lantern displays that showcase the artistry and cultural heritage behind the centuries-old tradition of lantern-making.

Explore glowing landscapes filled with magnificent, illuminated sculptures. See one-of-a- kind themed lanterns that celebrate the global events coming to Philly this summer. You will also find displays of animals and flowers, all brought to life through traditional Chinese lantern art.

TICKETS HERE

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More than 450 regional thought leaders, changemakers, business leaders, nonprofit professionals, and innovators gathered at The Bellevue Hotel on May 20 for the fifth annual OpportUNITY Summit hosted by United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.

This year’s theme, “United in Purpose: Renewing the Promise of America,” explored how communities can work together to expand economic mobility, advance equity, and break down systemic barriers that prevent individuals and families from reaching their full potential.

“Creating lasting change requires bold ideas and collective commitment,” said Bill Golderer, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. “As Philadelphia marks the nation’s 250th anniversary, this is a defining moment to reflect on our shared values and to take action to ensure the promise of opportunity is real and accessible for every person in our region.”

Held during the nation’s Semiquincentennial year, the summit connected discussions about opportunity and prosperity to Philadelphia’s unique role in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Guests also had the opportunity to continue the conversation beyond the event by taking home books from featured speakers, including Andre M. Perry’s acclaimed work, Black Power Scorecard: Measuring the Racial Gap and What We Can Do to Close It and Jill Lepore‘s These Truths

The program featured a series of engaging keynote presentations and panel discussions focused on workforce development, racial equity, community-driven solutions, and the power of cross-sector collaboration. Featured speakers included civil rights attorney and former NAACP Legal Defense Fund President Sherrilyn Ifill, economist Cullum Clark, community development expert Andre M. Perry, and Yale University psychology professor Dr. Laurie Santos.

Adding a creative element to the event, United Way commissioned InLiquid artist Marta Sanchez to create a live painting throughout the summit. The artwork evolved in real time as conversations unfolded, serving as a visual representation of United Way’s mission and the themes of the OpportUNITY Summit.

As Philadelphia prepares to welcome the world during America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, the OpportUNITY Summit served as a powerful reminder that creating opportunity for all requires innovation, partnership, and a shared commitment to building stronger communities.

The day sparked powerful conversations and equipped attendees with renewed energy to engage in poverty-fighting work across our region. Thanks United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.

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Philadelphia’s innovation corridor welcomed a major new addition on May 19 as developer John Gattuso and Gattuso Development Partners hosted an opening celebration for the highly anticipated 3201 Cuthbert Street in University City.

The evening brought together an impressive mix of development partners, business leaders, elected officials, members of Philadelphia’s growing life sciences community, and longtime friends of the project for an exclusive first look inside the state of the art building.

Guests gathered throughout the striking new space, experiencing the final reveal of what is already being called one of the most advanced life sciences developments in Philadelphia.

Located in the heart of University City near Drexel University and 30th Street Station, 3201 Cuthbert Street has quickly become a symbol of Philadelphia’s continued rise as a national hub for medicine, biotechnology, research, and innovation. The nearly 520,000 square foot development was designed by the renowned architectural firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects, specifically to support world class laboratory and research operations while also creating a modern collaborative environment for the next generation

The project has already attracted major attention in the academic and research world, including Drexel University’s plans to house significant College of Medicine research operations within the building.

Throughout the celebration, guests mingled over cocktails while taking in panoramic views, modern interiors, and the ambitious vision behind the project. (see the artist dancing in the air to the left. So fun)

The event carried the energy of both a celebration and a statement about Philadelphia’s future. Conversations centered around economic growth, innovation, higher education partnerships, and the city’s expanding role in biotechnology and medical research.

3201 Cuthbert Street stands as another major investment in Philadelphia’s future, blending architecture, science, education, and economic development into one transformative project that is expected to influence the city’s innovation ecosystem for years to come.

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Philadelphia has always been more than the backdrop of American history. It’s the city where the story of America continues to evolve toward a more perfect union. A powerful new documentary, Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, is about to debut on WHYY, a film that deeply resonates as Philadelphia prepares for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.

Last week at the Philadelphia Film Society, WHYY premiered Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, a powerful new documentary that explores the founding of the nation through voices often left out of traditional history books.

Before the screening, guests, supporters, and people connected with the film, including the UK television production company Bear House Media, gathered for a VIP cocktail reception inside the Philadelphia Film Society, creating an intimate atmosphere ahead of the premiere.

“Within the backdrop of our nation’s Semiquincentennial, this documentary explores the themes and stories that continue to define who we are today, while underscoring the central role Philadelphia played in that history,” said Executive Producer Oliver St. Clair Franklin. “At its core, this film is about people, those whose stories have too often gone untold and the city that brought them together.”

The film weaves together the stories of Indigenous people, enslaved Africans, immigrants, lawmakers, artists, and everyday Philadelphians who helped shape the country from the very beginning. What makes the documentary especially compelling is how deeply it connects the past to the Philadelphia we know today.

Following the screening, guests stayed for a thoughtful discussion with the filmmakers and WHYY’s Cherri Gregg.

‘Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story,’ premiering May 28 on WHYY-12 before airing nationwide on PBS stations June 15, explores the city’s diverse communities, global influences and untold stories that helped shape the United States.

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The annual BLOCS Gala brought together Philadelphia’s business, education, and civic leaders at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown on May 7, to celebrate the power of scholarship opportunities and the 25th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.

The evening highlighted BLOCS’ mission of expanding access to education for thousands of students across the region.

Guests enjoyed student showcases and live demonstrations from participating schools, including robotics presentations, welding projects, fashion displays, and fine arts exhibits. Archbishop Nelson Pérez opened the evening with an invocation, while BLOCS leadership recognized donors, educators, elected officials, and longtime supporters who have helped grow the organization’s impact throughout Pennsylvania.

The gala also reflected on how the EITC program has transformed educational access over the past 25 years, with video tributes from civic and political leaders who supported the initiative.

BLOCS now partners with more than 500 schools and provides over 33,000 need based scholarships annually.

Save the Date: Monday July 6th at The Shore Club

The BLOCS Golf Outing brings supporters, partners, and friends together on the course to raise funds for scholarships and education. It combines camaraderie, philanthropy, and a shared commitment to empowering students across the region.

The post BLOCS GALA 2026: BUILDING WHAT MATTERS MOST appeared first on Philly Chit Chat.

Some of the following details were shared during recent neighborhood meetings, a presentation by the Lemon Hill Neighborhood Association, and recent press conferences. Since planning is ongoing, certain details could still change.

The event is free, features live soccer, music, and food from 75 local food trucks, and expects up to 15,000 fans daily. Officials urge fans to use public transportation due to limited parking, and neighborhood parking will be restricted to residents.

Residential Permit Zone: From Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19, 2026, temporary residential parking permits will be required in neighborhoods surrounding the FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill. Residents will be able to register legally insured vehicles tied to their home address and will also receive two guest parking passes valid for the duration of the event period. INFO HERE

Here’s what visitors need to know before heading to Fairmount Park: (Subject to Change)

ENTRANCE INFO
• South Entrance: Sedgley Drive & Poplar Drive
• North Entrance: Girard Avenue & Poplar Drive

The park area near the Lincoln Statue will serve as the

Welcome Center and Indigo Bike Parking Station. Kelly Drive and Sedgley Ave intersection (across from Lloyd Hall at Boat House Row)

ROAD CLOSURES
• Sedgley Drive and Poplar Drive south of Girard Avenue will be closed throughout construction which is ramping up now, event operations, and breakdown. There is no Lemon Hill Park access for recreation beginning May 18 through mid-August.
• Poplar Street will close at 29th Street and 30th Street south of Girard.
• Kelly Drive will remain open except for July 4 and the Schuylkill Navy Regattas in mid July.

BEST WAY TO GET THERE
The FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill is about a 45 minute walk from City Hall, so organizers are strongly encouraging visitors to use public transportation, walk, or bike instead of driving. It’s actually a beautiful walk either up the Benjamin Franklin Parkway or through Fairmount along Fairmount Avenue, with plenty of restaurants, bars, cafés, and neighborhood shops along the way.

SEPTA will increase service on these bus routes:
7, 32, 38, 43, 48, 49, and G, with buses arriving roughly every 10 minutes.

The Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop will also add a dedicated stop at Pennsylvania & Fairmount Avenues for direct access to Lemon Hill, which is about a half a mile.

Find official information

• 2026 Access Philly app. See what’s happening across the city. Available in the Apple App Store and Google Play.
• 2026 Philadelphia Resource Hub Spotlight Page. Find updates on helpful resources, major event details, and public safety guides.
• FIFA 2026 Philadelphia on WhatsApp
• City of Philadelphia on Instagram
• Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management on WhatsApp , on social media, or on their website
• Philadelphia Office of Special Events on Instagram
• Philadelphia International Airport’s Welcome 2026 webpage
• THE FAN FEST SCHEDULE Every day it’s open, and what the hours are at Lemon Hill!!

UPDATE: Just received this after I published my newsletter today.

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Philadelphia gave summer a full-on pep rally Tuesday night at the 3rd Annual Philly Opener presented by Highmark at the Independence Visitor Center Tuesday evening, May 5.

Guests were greeted by the always energetic Phambassadors, who cheered arrivals into the event, instantly setting the tone for a night filled with Philly pride, music, food, and excitement for the huge year ahead.

The energy inside felt less like a networking event and more like a hometown rally for Philly pride, with DJ Hollywood keeping the party moving while tourism leaders, hospitality insiders, and local cheerleaders celebrated what’s ahead for the city.

The annual event officially kicks off the region’s tourism season and brings together many of the city’s hospitality leaders, tourism insiders, restaurant owners, and cultural organizations, while also welcoming plenty of enthusiastic Philly fans looking to celebrate the start of summer.

Inside, the event blended food tastings, cocktails, entertainment, and tourism enthusiasm as hospitality leaders, local businesses, tourism officials, and city supporters gathered to celebrate the start of Philadelphia’s busy visitor season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

DJ Hollywood kept the energy high throughout the evening as guests sampled offerings from local restaurants and vendors while looking ahead to what many are calling one of the biggest years in Philadelphia history. With FIFA World Cup matches, MLB All-Star festivities, and America’s 250th birthday celebrations all on the horizon, the city is preparing for an international spotlight in 2026.

Guests also got a taste of Philly with an international twist as Tokyo-based restaurant Nihonbashi Philly wowed the crowd with a live cooking demonstration of their signature cheesesteak.

The celebration also featured playful signature cocktails themed around Pennsylvania and Philly pride, including the “Keystone Lemonade,” “MVP Margarita,” and the crowd-pleasing “Espress-Opener Martini,” helping keep the atmosphere festive throughout the evening.

Gritty enjoyed the Philadelphia Freedom Band and Color Guard performance during the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.

While Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was expected to attend to receive the event’s “Most Valuable Philadelphian” honor, he was unable to make it, with Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis stepping in on his behalf.

“This year, the work carries even greater meaning,” Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “As we mark the semiquincentennial, our city is welcoming the nation and the world for a once-in-a-generation year of history, culture, sports, tourism, hospitality and civic pride.”

Very cool “award” created specially for Governor Shapiro by artist/jeweler John Wind!!

Artist/Jeweler John Wind, his husband Bill Osman and friend Laura Burkhardt at their booth set up at the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.

A message from John Wind: Big thanks to @phlvisitorcenter and @kottlovell for the unique opportunity to create this year’s MVP (Most Valuable Philadelphian) Award for Governor Josh Shapiro! It was presented last night at their buzzy, Phantastic Philly Opener. Centered around a vintage Pennsylvania Jim Beam whiskey decanter, it’s embellished with symbols of @governorshapiro both professional and personal, as well as landmarks of our state. We kicked off our Philly250 jewelry collab last night as well, and I got to meet Miss Philadelphia, Swoop, and a few hundred passionate @phl.phambassadors

Today is busy. I have three events. Follow along on my Instagram

I saw the Devil Wear’s Prada last night. I liked it. It reminds me of my Manhattan days & nights. In fact on today’s Instagram I am posting about a time, shortly after the last movie, where I photographed Meryl Streep being honored by the Film Society of Lincoln Center in 2008. I sure do miss my red carpet celebrity shooting days. Today it’s too chaotic for me to venture back into it in Manhattan. Social Media killed it. It’s so crowded on the sidewalks now.

Socially yours, HughE

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On April 22, over 300 people from Philadelphia’s life sciences community gathered at The College of Physicians for an evening defined by connection, generosity, and a shared mission to disrupt poverty across the region.

The energy in the room reflected what’s possible when an industry invests directly in the people shaping Philadelphia’s future.

The evening spotlighted the organization’s mission to fight poverty across the region, with powerful reminders that behind every innovation in science is an opportunity to improve lives right here at home.

By night’s end, the event raised roughly $75,000 to support local nonprofits focused on basic needs, education, and workforce pathways.

It was one of those Philadelphia nights where purpose meets influence, and where a room full of changemakers proves this city isn’t just leading in science, it’s leading with heart.

Throughout the evening, guests heard directly from the individuals and partners behind Life Science Cares and its work across three key pillars: Basic Needs, Education, and Opportunity. Nowhere was that impact more tangible than in its partnership with Hopeworks Camden, a powerful example of how investment, mentorship, and opportunity can change the trajectory of lives.

Nyree Oliver’s story brought that impact to life. As a Hopeworks alumna, she represents the kind of transformation these partnerships make possible, moving from instability to opportunity through access to training, support, and meaningful employment. Her remarks grounded the evening in purpose and possibility, reminding everyone in the room what their investment truly supports.

“If you take anything away from tonight, let it be this: when you invest in people like me, you’re not just changing one life, you’re changing generations.”
— Nyree Oliver, Hopeworks Alumna

To learn more about Life Science Cares and how the life sciences community is driving impact across Philadelphia, visit their website and explore ways to get involved.

Thanks Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for ChitChat. Look for additional photos in PhillyStyle Mag

Thanks for stopping by. Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Founded on December 26, 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is the oldest art museum and school in the United States. As of 2026, PAFA is 220 years old and is celebrating its 220th anniversary this year, as the country celebrates it’s 250th anniversary. It was established in Philadelphia by painter and scientist Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush.

It was one of those rare Philadelphia evenings where the city truly dressed the part. Long gowns swept the floors, tuxedos filled the rooms, and for a few hours, PAFA transported us back in time.

Philadelphia’s art world had every reason to celebrate this season, as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts marked its 220th anniversary alongside the debut of A Nation of Artists, a landmark exhibition presented in partnership with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Middleton Family Collection.

The night began in the Hamilton Building with registration and a cocktail hour that buzzed with anticipation. But the true highlight came shortly after, when guests made their way next door for the ribbon cutting and rededication of the Historic Landmark Building. Now fully restored and serving as a central home for A Nation of Artists, the space felt both historic and newly alive, linking PAFA’s storied past with its present moment.

A Nation of Artists brings together an extraordinary range of American works, creating a sweeping visual narrative that spans centuries. Highlights include iconic portraiture such as Charles Willson Peale’s self-portrait and his portrait of George Washington, alongside Thomas Eakins’s powerful The Gross Clinic. Visitors move through lush landscapes by Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Edwin Church, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as deeply meaningful works from the Civil War era, including a monumental inscribed vessel by the enslaved potter David Drake.

Exquisite decor during the reception

I’m always excited when I spot a Calder in an exhibition

John S. Middleton noted, the exhibition is designed to be accessible to all, inviting visitors to discover something new with every visit, while PAFA President and CEO Kristen Shepherd described the moment as transformative for both the institution and the city, bridging its historic legacy with a forward-looking exploration of American art.

The exhibit at PAFA is incredible, truly one of the most exciting shows I’ve seen in a long time. I was especially grateful to thank the Middletons for sharing their collection with Philadelphia during such a meaningful moment in the city’s history. The renovations are stunning, the building feels bright, fresh, and full of energy. This is not a one-and-done visit, it’s the kind of exhibit you come back to again and again, and I already can’t wait to return and spend more time with it.

Additional photos from this event will appear in the June issue of Philadelphia Style Magazine.

Have a great weekend. In the meantime, catch me on Instagram for daily updates on what’s happening around Philadelphia.

I’ve also launched a new account focused on upcoming events. I’m often told, “I wish I knew about that,” so this will be a place to find what’s coming up before it happens, things worth checking out across the city.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

The post Celebrating 220 Years of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts appeared first on Philly Chit Chat.

Held at Urban Outfitters, Inc. headquarters in the Navy Yard, Fred’s Footsteps hosted its annual Party in the Yard fundraiser on March 7, 2026, delivering a night filled with Philadelphia pride, community spirit, and impactful giving raising $348,000 for Local Families.

From the moment guests arrived, the energy was unmistakably Philly. The evening’s theme celebrated the city in full force, from locally inspired appetizers and décor to eye-catching, real-life “golden” statues of Rocky Balboa and Benjamin Franklin welcoming attendees.

Adding to the excitement, Swoop made a spirited appearance, while a green screen photo booth transported guests to iconic scenes along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

One of the most talked-about features of the night was the glowing balloon-and-letter marquee display by Charming Garlands, which quickly became a must-stop photo moment. Meanwhile, 13th Street Cocktail Catering elevated the experience with a custom Philly-themed bar, complete with a steaming manhole cover branded with the Fred’s Footsteps logo—a clever nod to the city’s streetscape.

Since its founding in 2005, Fred’s Footsteps has been dedicated to ensuring that a child’s health is a parent’s only worry. The organization provides critical financial relief to working families caring for medically complex children, serving Philadelphia and 18 surrounding counties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

The program featured a high-energy live auction led by Jeff Hammond, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a private chef’s table at Osteria, a VIP Philadelphia Eagles training camp experience, and a luxury Philadelphia Phillies suite outing.

Guests also showed overwhelming generosity during the paddle raise, funding essential needs such as wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and basic household expenses for families facing medical hardship.

From silent auction bids and raffle ticket purchases to enthusiastic paddle raises, every moment of participation contributed to a powerful outcome. By the end of the evening, Fred’s Footsteps raised an impressive $348,000, directly supporting families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.

Fred’s loves Phillyand once again, Philadelphia showed up.

Thanks for stopping by!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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