By Molly Given
Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered.
Dry January Bar Crawl
Some say Dry January can be a little boring—but Philly has other plans for the booze-free initiative.
This weekend (Jan. 17 and 18), the first-ever Northern Liberties and Fishtown Dry January Bar Crawl will be in full swing with 26+ restaurants, bars, wineries and breweries offering signature mocktails or zero-proof cocktails, food specials and social events.
According to a release, participating establishments will offer at least one or more mocktails or NA beverages at happy-hour-style pricing, including options at $6, $8, and $10. Â Philadelphians will also find food pairings and discounted apps, games, activities, special events, pop-ups and unique non-alcoholic or wellness-inspired menu items to complete their bar crawl experience. A full list of participating spots can be found online.
Ben Franklin’s Tippler’s Tour at Carpenter’s Hall
Philadelphia knows how to celebrate its own—and this January, Historic Philadelphia is honoring its most famous founding father, Benjamin Franklin.
This weekend specifically, locals can join in on Franklin’s Limited Edition Tippler’s Tour for a unique and spirited commemoration in honor of Silence Dogood’s birthday.Â
Produced in partnership with the Carpenters’ Company, the event is returning for three days (Jan. 16, 17 and 18) at Carpenter’s Hall, and will feature savory snacks and seasonal beverages with a side of history. The three evenings (5:30 to 6:30 p.m.) offer a perfect way to “delight in lighthearted toasts and spirited songs, delivered by the famous inventor and statesman himself.” Tickets ($40) are available online.
320 Chestnut St., historicphiladelphia.org
Center City District Restaurant Week
This Sunday kicks off the winter iteration of Center City District Restaurant Week, and there is a little something for everyone on the docket in 2026. Taking place Jan 18 to 31, venues around the area will offer three-course, prix-fixe dinners priced at $45 Â or $60, and two-course lunches for $20 (note, some venues will participate in dinner only.) For an additional price, cocktail pairings can be added to complement menus with Hornitos Tequila and Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey as well.
A full list of participating spots and cuisines (which range this year to offer menus packed with Italian, Mediterranean, Southern, Cuban and other options) can be found online. (Note that gratuity, special dietary choices and hours of operation vary by location.)
In addition to the menus, diners participating in Center City District Restaurant Week can also find discounted parking for $10 or less from 4:45 p.m. to 1 a.m. at select LAZ, BexPark by Brandywine, and Philadelphia Parking Authority locations. Locals can find more information on the event’s official website, along with instructions on QR codes or how to reserve your spot ahead of time.
Wellness Walks at Morris Arboretum
Taking place Saturdays and Sundays now until March 2026, Philadelphians can head to the scenic Morris Arboretum to participate in weekly Wellness Walks (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.) Led by an experienced volunteer guide, these brisk walks will stick to paved paths and are free with admission.
While there, Philadelphians can also explore Morris’ fernery, tree canopy walk, fairy gardens, historic structures and perhaps catch the venue’s swans, Flora and Fauna, while at the swan pond (plus keep an eye out for some koi.)
100 E. Northwestern Ave., morrisarboretum.org
‘Steel Magnolias’ at People’s Light
It’s a New Year and that means a fresh batch of shows are incoming from the Malvern-based theater, People’s Light. First up in 2026 is the staging of Robert Harling’s ‘Steel Magnolias’, which is set to run now through Feb. 15 at the award-winning arts venue.
The popular story, which first premiered in 1987 — and went on to become a film and TV show — follows a tight-knit group of women while they maneuver the ups and downs of life in a beauty shop in small-town Chinquapin, Louisiana. According to a release, the cast is composed almost entirely of People’s Light company artists, many of whom have performed together on stage for years.
Groups of 10 or more can receive 15 to 25% discounts, plus custom benefits by calling 610-647-1900, Ext. 111, or emailing groupsales@peopleslight.org. There will also be two $30 access dates for ‘Steel Magnolias’ with the first one up on Jan. 20 at 7 p.m.
39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, peopleslight.org
Keywords
Center City District Restaurant Week,
Dry January Bar Crawl,
Northern Liberties,
Fishtown