🛑 Philly’s largest workers union goes on strike

🏖️ What To Look Forward to This July

On today’s episode of City Cast Philly, the team talks about what’s happening on the Fourth and gives you our top suggestions for things to do in July. And if that isn’t enough, we have even more suggestions for you down below. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

🏀 New WNBA Team To Be Ballin’ on Broad Street

After years of wishful thinking and advocacy, Philly is finally getting a WNBA team. The league announced an expansion to Philly, Detroit, and Cleveland for the 2030 season. The team is expected to play in the new Sixers arena in South Philly. Now: What should we call the team? Email or text us (215-259-8170) your suggestions. [🎧 City Cast Philly, Associated Press]

🗳️ Congressman Evans Announces Retirement

Democratic U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans, 71, who missed many votes this term following a stroke, announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. Evans, a longtime Philly politico who has been serving in Congress since 2016, said he will finish the remainder of his term. A Democratic primary for his seat next spring could feature State Sen. Sharif Street, chair of the state Democratic Party, along with State Reps. Megan Cephas and Christopher Rabb. [NBC10, Politico]

🏠 1 Person Killed, 2 Injured Following Rowhome Collapse in Nicetown

A Northwest Philadelphia neighborhood is still reeling following a weekend house explosion and collapse that left one person dead and several homes damaged. The cause is still under investigation but officials said the process would be slow in order to prevent a secondary collapse. The city has launched a recovery fund for the victims. [CBS Philly]

The biggest bash in July is Independence Day, but the party doesn’t stop on July 4. From movies-in-the-park to street fests to free boating, here’s how to have fun and stay refreshed this month.

🎇 Independence Day Celebrations

Enjoy free museum days on July 1 at the Wagner Free Institute of Science, Carpenter’s Hall, and Paul Robeson Museum; on July 2 at The Mütter Museum; on July 3 at The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and Historic St. George’s Museum & Archives; and on July 4 at Cliveden of the National Trust, Fireman’s Hall Museum, and Arch Street Meeting House.

Philadelphia’s Historic District is kicking off Independence Day festivities with its Red, White, & Blue To-Do. July 2 will be filled with a flag-raising ceremony at the Betsy Ross House, extended hours at attractions, and an All American Block Party.

This year’s Wawa Welcome America Fourth of July Concert is headlined by LL Cool J and Philly’s own Jazmine Sullivan. The concert will take place at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

🌊 Get a Splash of Summer Fun

The city has pools and spraygrounds open at parks and playgrounds across Philadelphia. Find your nearest pool here.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can participate in free boating activities at Bartram’s Garden, Glen Foerd, and FDR Park.

If you’re willing to pay a little extra, the Independence Seaport Museum has paddleboats available to rent Fridays through Sundays. You can also opt for a six-mile kayak excursion on the Delaware River on July 5 for $75.

From paddleboarding to whitewater kayaking, the Philadelphia Canoe Club is hosting social events and lessons throughout July.

Gone fishing? The Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership is offering free fishing lessons on July 1, July 8, July 23, July 26, and July 29 in neighboring Montgomery County. Find all events on its calendar.