City Cast Philly
🏫 Former schools could become Philly’s newest homes
December 15, 2025 · — Siani Colón
Happy Monday, Philly! Hope the weekend’s snowfall made your plans feel magical (instead of ruining them).
I want to give a huge thank you to everyone who became a City Cast Philly Neighbor during our year-end membership campaign. We can’t wait to see you at our next member event!
The campaign officially wrapped up on Friday, but here’s the truth: We are SO close to our goal. If just a handful more of you join, we’ll get there.
From national issues that hit home to the hyperlocal stories only we understand, City Cast Philly is here to help us all be better neighbors. Take it from our newest member, Margaret G.
If you’ve been meaning to join, now’s the time. It’s $10/month for you and absolutely invaluable to us. Plus, we’ll send you a City Cast Philly beanie as a thank-you.
What's CITY Talking About
Philly Dining’s Biggest Wins and Losses in 2025
This was a big year for Philly dining, from Michelin stars to ambitious restaurant openings. So what makes our food scene stand out? And what are we leaving behind in 2025 (looking at you, QR codes and Caesar salad martinis)? City Cast Philly contributor Alisha Miranda joins host Trenae Nuri to break down 2025’s dining and drinking trends and our predictions for 2026. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
Vacant Schools = Future Apartments?
As Mayor Parker’s HO.M.E. initiative moves forward with some changes, Philly could acquire more property to add to its housing stock. Philadelphia’s Board of Education approved a resolution that would allow the school district to negotiate with the city to sell or transfer old school buildings for housing or other community benefits. [🎧 City Cast Philly, Chalkbeat]
Philly To Ring In New Year With Free Concert
We’re used to packing the Parkway on Independence Day, but come down on Dec. 31 for a New Year’s Eve concert, followed by fireworks. The show will be headlined by LL Cool J, who was scheduled to perform at the Fourth of July concert but backed out in solidarity with striking city workers. [6ABC, 📝 City Cast Philly]
- Related: If you still have energy after partying in front of the Art Museum, you can see the recently ranked best holiday parade in the U.S. the next morning. [USA Today]
Best Performances To See This Winter
If you need help putting some plans together, Philly’s arts scene is kicking off the new year with a bang. From classical ballets to murder mystery musicals, Philly’s theaters are brimming with talent to watch. [🔒 Philly Mag]
How Block Beautification Makes Philly Streets Safer
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to decrease gun violence, but environmental design considerations could improve a neighborhood’s conditions while lowering its crime rate. From lighting crime hotspots to implementing safety patrols, Philly residents have found creative ways to connect the community while making it feel more secure. [🔒 The New York Times]
- Related: Fixing up vacant homes and lots is another means of gun violence prevention. [🎧 City Cast Philly]
What To Do
Monday, Dec. 15
- 🎲 Indie RPG Night at BUBS (Norris Square)
- 🎨 Wet Felting Workshop at Tacony LAB (Tacony)
- 🎶 Broadway Cabaret at Rittenhouse Grill (Rittenhouse)
- 💌 Riso Holiday Cards at The Soapbox (Squirrel Hill)
- 🎤 Fishtown Choir Xmas Extravaganza at Evil Genius Beer Co. (Fishtown)
Tuesday, Dec. 16
- 📼 VHS Movie Night: “Home Alone” at Harmonie Hall (Manayunk)
- 🎲 Ultimate Holiday Game Night Extravaganza at One Drexel Plaza (University City)
- 🎅 Christmas Party and Free Buffet at New Wave Cafe (Queen Village)
- 🎨 Stained Glass Art Workshop at Paschalville Library (Paschalville)
- 🎤 Poetry Battle at Faceclock Gallery (Norris Square)
How should Philly be represented in 2026? The city is running a poster design contest for the 250th anniversary of the country’s founding. The top prize is $10,000. 👀
Special thank you to our other new City Cast Philly Neighbors Juliet C., Megan H., Wolf J., Jake P., and Eleanore S. for supporting our newsletter and podcast!
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