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Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran "back to stone ages" over next 2-3 weeks

Trump said the U.S. will strike civilian infrastructure if a deal isn't reached.

World

President Trump said in a prime time address that the U.S. was close to ending its war in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="6feb93ab-4c2e-43d4-b345-e51cf017df72" data-vars-headline="Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran &quot;back to stone ages&quot; over next 2-3 weeks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> but would spend the next two to three weeks bombing the country &quot;back to the stone ages.&quot;The big picture: Trump said that if a deal to end the war cannot be reached, the U.S. would bomb all of Iran&#x27;s power plants and its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="oil " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/oil-companies" data-vars-content-id="6feb93ab-4c2e-43d4-b345-e51cf017df72" data-vars-headline="Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran &quot;back to stone ages&quot; over next 2-3 weeks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/oil-companies" target="_self">oil </a>fields, moves that would have devastating consequences for Iran&#x27;s civilian population and the future of the country, while likely inciting retaliation on America&#x27;s allies in the region.

Exclusive: Trump's DOJ says he's not required to turn over official records

Trump was indicted after his first term for failing to turn over some documents when he left office.

Politics & Policy

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="404c63c9-15d1-4b8a-a2a2-4a52fb9c17ee" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Trump&#x27;s DOJ says he&#x27;s not required to turn over official records" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> Justice Department has concluded that a federal law requiring presidential records to be turned over to the government is unconstitutional, a senior White House official tells Axios.Why it matters: The finding is an indication Trump will be reluctant to give all of his official records to the National Archives at the end of his term, as presidents have done for nearly a half-century under the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Presidential Records Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/09/trump-presidential-records-fbi-warrant" data-vars-content-id="404c63c9-15d1-4b8a-a2a2-4a52fb9c17ee" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Trump&#x27;s DOJ says he&#x27;s not required to turn over official records" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/09/trump-presidential-records-fbi-warrant" target="_self">Presidential Records Act</a> of 1978.

Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson Johnson on Friday called the Senate bill a "joke."

House Speaker <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mike Johnson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-trump" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-trump" target="_self">Mike Johnson</a> (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="John Thune " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/john-thune-government-shutdown-reopen" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/john-thune-government-shutdown-reopen" target="_self">John Thune </a>(R-S.D.) said Wednesday they&#x27;ll advance a plan to fund the Department of Homeland Security — excluding ICE and CBP— with those agencies deferred to a later reconciliation bill.Why it matters: House Republicans just five days ago rejected that approach, with some <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="vowing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/27/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-freedom-caucus" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/27/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-freedom-caucus" target="_self">vowing</a> to never support a DHS funding package without money for ICE and CBP.

Artemis II successfully launches for historic Moon mission

The launch will carry humans as far as they've journeyed since the Apollo days.

Science

NASA&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artemis II Moon mission" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/03/16/nasa-artemis-mission-changes-2028-moon-landing-sls" data-vars-content-id="352258a3-43d2-48ab-9812-689ac420f436" data-vars-headline="Artemis II successfully launches for historic Moon mission" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/03/16/nasa-artemis-mission-changes-2028-moon-landing-sls" target="_self">Artemis II Moon mission</a> successfully launched from Florida&#x27;s John F. Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday afternoon at 6:35pm ET.Why it matters: Artemis II&#x27;s planned crewed lunar flyby is set to mark the closest humanity has come to the Moon since the Apollo days.

"The Axios Show": Jamie Dimon on Trump, running for office and Epstein

Dimon was reluctant to criticize Trump across a number of issues.

The Axios Show

JPMorgan Chase CEO <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jamie Dimon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/jamie-dimon-iran-axios-show" data-vars-content-id="2c913bef-5c25-4a77-b0df-8fdedf7399f9" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Axios Show&quot;: Jamie Dimon on Trump, running for office and Epstein" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/jamie-dimon-iran-axios-show" target="_self">Jamie Dimon</a> gave an impassioned defense of the Iran war, dismissed the idea of running for office and pointed at plans for his post-CEO future in an interview with Jim VandeHei for a new episode of &quot;The Axios Show.&quot;Why it matters: Dimon, who once served as chairman of the Business Roundtable, has outsized influence in the American business landscape.

No Kings protests planned throughout Philly region this weekend

The protests are expected to bring road closures and traffic delays.

Politics

The third round of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="No Kings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/10/16/no-kings-protest-philly-pennsylvania-trump-october" data-vars-content-id="8e8de9e0-267f-4b6b-8f7a-f91f73a8ff73" data-vars-headline="No Kings protests planned throughout Philly region this weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/10/16/no-kings-protest-philly-pennsylvania-trump-october" target="_self">No Kings</a> rallies is set for Philadelphia&#x27;s Center City and other spots across the region this weekend. Why it matters: The potentially large-scale protests will prompt daylong road closures and traffic delays on Saturday.

Uber escalates fight over Philadelphia's proposed rideshare tax

The fight is shaping up as Soda Tax 2.0, echoing the battle the beverage industry waged against former Mayor Kenney.

News

Uber is launching an aggressive campaign to defeat Mayor Cherelle Parker&#x27;s proposed rideshare tax — tapping a high-powered Philadelphia lobbying firm and warning riders how the fee will hit their wallets.Why it matters: The fight is shaping up as Soda Tax 2.0, reminiscent of the bruising battle the beverage industry waged against former Mayor Jim Kenney&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="signature initiative" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/12/philadelphia-mayor-jim-kenney-legacy-moments" data-vars-content-id="f0ab01d1-070f-442f-a838-54463132480c" data-vars-headline="Uber escalates fight over Philadelphia&#x27;s proposed rideshare tax" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/12/philadelphia-mayor-jim-kenney-legacy-moments" target="_self">signature initiative</a> to fund universal pre-kindergarten, plus renovations to parks and recreation centers.

Phillies trade Harry Kalas' name for energy drink sponsor — fans cry foul

The move landed like a 103-mph fastball to the ribs.

Sports

The Phillies have found themselves in a pickle before the season starts over their decision to remove legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas&#x27; name from an upper-deck concessions bar as part of a naming rights deal with Ghost Energy.Why it matters: To fans, the move landed like a 103-mph fastball to the ribs — and it&#x27;s coming from their own team.

Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo

Fill out your social calendar with these can't-miss events in the Philadelphia region.

Things to Do

🎉 Celebrate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Philly Flag Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWVGOElDIOA/" data-vars-content-id="9746e2f2-2588-467d-b1bf-b7f68a022678" data-vars-headline="Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWVGOElDIOA/" target="_blank">Philly Flag Day</a> today from noon-1pm. The annual event, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="marking what&#x27;s likely the first official city flag in the U.S." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/20/city-flag-redesign" data-vars-content-id="9746e2f2-2588-467d-b1bf-b7f68a022678" data-vars-headline="Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/20/city-flag-redesign" target="_self">marking what&#x27;s likely the first official city flag in the U.S.</a>, is set for the north apron of City Hall, where you&#x27;ll find music, giveaways and award ceremony. 🌸 It&#x27;s cherry blossom time! Philly&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cherry Blossom Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://japanphilly.org/programs/festivals/cbf-2026/" data-vars-content-id="9746e2f2-2588-467d-b1bf-b7f68a022678" data-vars-headline="Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://japanphilly.org/programs/festivals/cbf-2026/" target="_blank">Cherry Blossom Festival</a> is Saturday and Sunday at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fairmount Park Horticulture Center" data-vars-click-url="https://myphillypark.org/explore/parks/fairmount-park-horticulture-center/" data-vars-content-id="9746e2f2-2588-467d-b1bf-b7f68a022678" data-vars-headline="Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://myphillypark.org/explore/parks/fairmount-park-horticulture-center/" target="_blank">Fairmount Park Horticulture Center</a>. <ul><li>Count on vendor fair, food court, tea ceremony, face painting, calligraphy station, a scavenger hunt and other activities. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://japanphilly.org/programs/festivals/cbf-2026/" data-vars-content-id="9746e2f2-2588-467d-b1bf-b7f68a022678" data-vars-headline="Philly weekender: Cherry blossoms and Oddities Expo" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://japanphilly.org/programs/festivals/cbf-2026/" target="_blank">Tickets</a>: $5-$20; kids under 12 are free. </li></ul>

Philly bars could stay open until 4am during World Cup

The last time Philly could serve alcohol past 2am was in 2016.

Food and Drink

Philly bars are getting the green light to keep the alcohol flowing until 4am during the FIFA <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" data-vars-content-id="602e7fb1-74b4-4db2-9528-a4d1d61ee1e4" data-vars-headline="Philly bars could stay open until 4am during World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" target="_self">World Cup</a> and other <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="big events" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="602e7fb1-74b4-4db2-9528-a4d1d61ee1e4" data-vars-headline="Philly bars could stay open until 4am during World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">big events</a> this summer.Why it matters: Extending last call will help businesses cash in on the flood of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tourists" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/philadelphia-region-tourism-250-america-2026-events" data-vars-content-id="602e7fb1-74b4-4db2-9528-a4d1d61ee1e4" data-vars-headline="Philly bars could stay open until 4am during World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/philadelphia-region-tourism-250-america-2026-events" target="_self">tourists</a> expected in the coming months.

The cheesiest bracket in Philly is officially on

Craft Hall is pitting its top mac-and-cheese dishes against each other in a single-elimination bracket.

One dish is about to be crowned the mac daddy of them all.The big picture: Northern Liberties sports bar <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Craft Hall" data-vars-click-url="https://www.crafthallphilly.com/" data-vars-content-id="6c8babfb-0b0d-4321-8296-bf101ef65033" data-vars-headline="The cheesiest bracket in Philly is officially on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.crafthallphilly.com/" target="_blank">Craft Hall</a> is tapping into March Madness fever with its own in-house Mac Madness tournament.

Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name

Culture

That didn&#x27;t last long.State of play: The board of trustees of Philly&#x27;s largest and most prestigious art institution voted on Wednesday to nix <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="last year&#x27;s splashy renaming" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/10/09/philadelphia-art-museum-rebrand-pham" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/10/09/philadelphia-art-museum-rebrand-pham" target="_self">last year&#x27;s splashy renaming</a>.<ul><li>✅ In: Philadelphia Museum of Art</li><li>🚫 Out: Philadelphia Art Museum </li></ul>Yes, but: The museum will retain the circular griffin logo and so-called brand identity that was introduced last year, per the board&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="news release" data-vars-click-url="https://press.philamuseum.org/brand-update-philadelphia-museum-of-art-will-return-as-name-of-institution-griffin-logo-and-brand-identity-will-remain/" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://press.philamuseum.org/brand-update-philadelphia-museum-of-art-will-return-as-name-of-institution-griffin-logo-and-brand-identity-will-remain/" target="_blank">news release</a>. <ul><li>Visitors will see changes to the museum&#x27;s branding in the coming weeks — both IRL and on its website. </li><li>The museum&#x27;s website, emails and social media pages will revert back to &quot;philamuseum.&quot; </li></ul>Cost: The price tag for the rebrand: $1 million, per the Inquirer.<ul><li>And the re-rebrand: $50,000, a museum spokesperson tells Axios. </li></ul>Zoom in: A museum task force recommended the changes following a examination of the rebrand&#x27;s rollout, including surveys of museum trustees and staff, per the board.What they&#x27;re saying: Returning to the original name &quot;is an important gesture,&quot; Daniel Weiss, the new director and CEO of the museum, said in a news release.<ul><li>&quot;We now have a system that our entire community can rally around — so we can dedicate ourselves to the important opportunities of our mission.&quot;</li></ul>Context: The museum&#x27;s retreat follows the firing of museum director Sasha Suda, who was sacked in November <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="over allegations of theft." data-vars-click-url="https://www.inquirer.com/arts/philadelphia-art-museum-lawsuit-sasha-suda-20251121.html" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.inquirer.com/arts/philadelphia-art-museum-lawsuit-sasha-suda-20251121.html" target="_blank">over allegations of theft.</a><ul><li>Suda, who was hired in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="2022" data-vars-click-url="https://press.philamuseum.org/philadelphia-museum-of-art-names-sasha-suda-as-new-director-and-ceo/" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://press.philamuseum.org/philadelphia-museum-of-art-names-sasha-suda-as-new-director-and-ceo/" target="_blank">2022</a>, and her team led the rebrand, which was unpopular with many Philadelphians. </li><li>Plus: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Paul Dien" data-vars-click-url="https://press.philamuseum.org/the-philadelphia-museum-of-art-welcomes--two-new-members-to-its-senior-leadership-team/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_philadelphia&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://press.philamuseum.org/the-philadelphia-museum-of-art-welcomes--two-new-members-to-its-senior-leadership-team/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_philadelphia&amp;stream=top" target="_blank">Paul Dien</a>, the museum&#x27;s head marketer, who oversaw the rebrand, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="resigned" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-philadelphia-a2cc1233-0fb2-4ba0-a71f-69a2127f45e7.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_philadelphia&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="479a04b7-1930-4774-bf61-a23cb0e0c819" data-vars-headline="Rebrand 2.0: Philly art museum backtracks on new name" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-philadelphia-a2cc1233-0fb2-4ba0-a71f-69a2127f45e7.html?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_philadelphia&amp;stream=top" target="_self">resigned</a> Feb. 1. </li></ul>1 notable thing: The museum says it will no longer use the &quot;PhAM&quot; acronym, which was introduced as part of the rebrand. <ul><li>Yes, but: Does that mean people will stop calling the museum &quot;PhART&quot;? TBD.</li></ul>

Philly neighborhoods ring in America's 250th birthday with new bells

Artists worked on the designs and highlighted histories, heroes and cultures of the neighborhoods they're being placed in.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chinatown gets a bell!" data-vars-click-url="https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=d44b221d688bac1f&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifMYU7a4Q-iBDlPC9N53fAeJXKiP2Q:1765386912414&amp;udm=7&amp;fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZ59Aj-dkSgmXWKpa2HWaBZDtyvvIn4PVHl081BMOU6hqePjkUQDxmNMZlAa2JorCvAOGwUaUqdk3KRaXOI5--gq_7fiT9L0HI8qPbO4wdfIKjLuPMZuuQ7hezWj86UFA3tv5evsmFvFYpYzSqRm20I32UC9pHRduAvxuySQj7DJIHMbzqSvqahKwWVnzFIHpAy-CpCw&amp;q=oprah+you+get+a+car&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-x7jewrORAxVIF1kFHWirA1kQtKgLegQIEhAB&amp;biw=1887&amp;bih=926&amp;dpr=0.9#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:17486ce7,vid:pviYWzu0dzk,st:0" data-vars-content-id="60b91801-0007-41a7-9709-8da5ecadffae" data-vars-headline="Philly neighborhoods ring in America&#x27;s 250th birthday with new bells" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=d44b221d688bac1f&amp;rlz=1C5GCCM_en&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifMYU7a4Q-iBDlPC9N53fAeJXKiP2Q:1765386912414&amp;udm=7&amp;fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZ59Aj-dkSgmXWKpa2HWaBZDtyvvIn4PVHl081BMOU6hqePjkUQDxmNMZlAa2JorCvAOGwUaUqdk3KRaXOI5--gq_7fiT9L0HI8qPbO4wdfIKjLuPMZuuQ7hezWj86UFA3tv5evsmFvFYpYzSqRm20I32UC9pHRduAvxuySQj7DJIHMbzqSvqahKwWVnzFIHpAy-CpCw&amp;q=oprah+you+get+a+car&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-x7jewrORAxVIF1kFHWirA1kQtKgLegQIEhAB&amp;biw=1887&amp;bih=926&amp;dpr=0.9#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:17486ce7,vid:pviYWzu0dzk,st:0" target="_blank">Chinatown gets a bell!</a> Mt. Airy gets a bell! South Philly gets a bell!State of play: Twenty city neighborhoods are getting replica Liberty Bells — but local artists are zhuzhing them up.

Mayor Parker ups her rideshare tax proposal to $1 per trip

Big rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are likely to fight back hard on the threat of a second tax on their businesses.

Business

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker is upping her proposal for a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new rideshare tax" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/12/city-budget-cherelle-parker-business-taxes-ride-shares" data-vars-content-id="5c179f0d-4d9e-4e46-977c-549147190ad2" data-vars-headline="Mayor Parker ups her rideshare tax proposal to $1 per trip" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/12/city-budget-cherelle-parker-business-taxes-ride-shares" target="_self">new rideshare tax</a> to help close the school district&#x27;s massive budget gap.Why it matters: Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are likely to fight back hard against the threat of a second tax on their businesses. (Think: The battle over Philly&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="soda tax" data-vars-click-url="https://whyy.org/articles/lobbying-war-over-philly-soda-tax-still-waged-by-the-millions/" data-vars-content-id="5c179f0d-4d9e-4e46-977c-549147190ad2" data-vars-headline="Mayor Parker ups her rideshare tax proposal to $1 per trip" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://whyy.org/articles/lobbying-war-over-philly-soda-tax-still-waged-by-the-millions/" target="_blank">soda tax</a> a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="decade ago" data-vars-click-url="https://whyy.org/articles/5-4-million-ads-devoted-philly-soda-tax-battle-year/" data-vars-content-id="5c179f0d-4d9e-4e46-977c-549147190ad2" data-vars-headline="Mayor Parker ups her rideshare tax proposal to $1 per trip" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://whyy.org/articles/5-4-million-ads-devoted-philly-soda-tax-battle-year/" target="_blank">decade ago</a>.)<ul><li>Plus: The new fee could make rides cost more within Philly proper.</li></ul>

Bill Gates-founded nuclear company invests $450M in South Philly facility

TerraPower Isotopes is the largest tenant yet for the growing Bellwether District.

A massive South Philadelphia development project has scored a $450 million investment from Bill Gates&#x27; nuclear science company.Why it matters: TerraPower Isotopes is the largest tenant yet for the growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bellwether District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/13/bellwether-district-south-philadelphia-first-phase" data-vars-content-id="ffbce529-3ea5-4c93-86a9-e8605b44d26a" data-vars-headline="Bill Gates-founded nuclear company invests $450M in South Philly facility" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/13/bellwether-district-south-philadelphia-first-phase" target="_self">Bellwether District</a> and will expand the city&#x27;s life sciences industry.

Black-owned bookstores hit record numbers, but many struggle

A new report shows the number has grown from just 54 in 2014 to more than 300 today.

Just 54 Black-owned bookstores were identified across the U.S a decade ago. Today, a new report counts 306.Why it matters: As public schools and libraries <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="remove books" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/08/education-department-book-bans-censorship" data-vars-content-id="57c1add3-4920-4fc5-b92c-7c2d0aa02532" data-vars-headline="Black-owned bookstores hit record numbers, but many struggle" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/02/08/education-department-book-bans-censorship" target="_self">remove books</a> by Black authors — from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Beloved" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/toni-morrison" data-vars-content-id="57c1add3-4920-4fc5-b92c-7c2d0aa02532" data-vars-headline="Black-owned bookstores hit record numbers, but many struggle" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/toni-morrison" target="_blank">Beloved</a> to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The 1619 Project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html" data-vars-content-id="57c1add3-4920-4fc5-b92c-7c2d0aa02532" data-vars-headline="Black-owned bookstores hit record numbers, but many struggle" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html" target="_blank">The 1619 Project</a> — Black-owned bookstores are increasingly serving as places where readers can access <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="contested titles" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/29/funding-cuts-erasing-black-history-blackout-report" data-vars-content-id="57c1add3-4920-4fc5-b92c-7c2d0aa02532" data-vars-headline="Black-owned bookstores hit record numbers, but many struggle" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/29/funding-cuts-erasing-black-history-blackout-report" target="_self">contested titles</a> and authors&#x27; full bodies of work — and gather in community to discuss them.

Final round of Philly World Cup tickets drops today

Last-minute tickets go on sale at 11am, part of FIFA's fourth and final phased tranche of sales.

Calling all soccer fan holdouts: This is your last chance to score tickets to this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup games" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" data-vars-content-id="03bd5520-8650-4435-9ad5-64e95ba405da" data-vars-headline="Final round of Philly World Cup tickets drops today" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" target="_self">World Cup games</a> in Philly.Why it matters: FIFA expects attendance at this year&#x27;s tourney to eclipse its all-time record of 3.4 million, which was set in 1994.

Pennsylvania lags on forfeiture reforms as Philadelphia improves

People struggle to navigate a Byzantine legal system — often without a lawyer, though Philly has taken steps to improve its system.

Pennsylvania remains among dozens of states with weak <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="civil forfeiture" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2021/10/21/philadelphia-civil-forfeiture-program-survey" data-vars-content-id="df7c95b8-b293-4037-8241-750882378946" data-vars-headline="Pennsylvania lags on forfeiture reforms as Philadelphia improves" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2021/10/21/philadelphia-civil-forfeiture-program-survey" target="_self">civil forfeiture</a> protections, although Philadelphia has made some reforms to curtail widespread abuses, per the Institute for Justice.Why it matters: Civil forfeiture — a process that allows law enforcement to seize homes, cars and, most often, cash suspected of being tied to criminal activity — remains big business nationwide, accounting for more than $82 billion in property seized since 2000, per IJ&#x27;s latest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Policing for Profit report." data-vars-click-url="https://ij.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PfP4-WEB.pdf" data-vars-content-id="df7c95b8-b293-4037-8241-750882378946" data-vars-headline="Pennsylvania lags on forfeiture reforms as Philadelphia improves" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ij.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PfP4-WEB.pdf" target="_blank">Policing for Profit report.</a><ul><li>Five states — including neighboring New Jersey — accounted for nearly half of the roughly $300 million combined worth that was seized by states in 2023.</li></ul>

Philly racks up 7 James Beard finalist nods

This is Jesse Ito's sixth time as a finalist.

Philly&#x27;s James Beard story features a familiar face: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Royal Sushi &amp; Izakaya" data-vars-click-url="http://royalsushiandizakaya.com/" data-vars-content-id="9d60c677-66fa-4826-bb3b-9d35b7e5ee99" data-vars-headline="Philly racks up 7 James Beard finalist nods" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://royalsushiandizakaya.com/" target="_blank">Royal Sushi &amp; Izakaya</a>&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jesse Ito" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/04/02/james-beard-award-finalists-2025-philly" data-vars-content-id="9d60c677-66fa-4826-bb3b-9d35b7e5ee99" data-vars-headline="Philly racks up 7 James Beard finalist nods" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/04/02/james-beard-award-finalists-2025-philly" target="_self">Jesse Ito</a> is once again a finalist for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic, joining a strong group of regional nominees.Why it matters: The Beards are the restaurant industry&#x27;s Oscars, and Ito&#x27;s repeat recognition underscores his staying power and Philly&#x27;s status as a top food city.

New series spotlights local artists with weeknight performances

The program includes 16 weeks of performances, shows from 6–9pm and 135 local artists.

Philly&#x27;s nightlife just got a little jazzier — even on a work week.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Weeknights Live" data-vars-click-url="https://www.creativephl.org/weeknightslive/" data-vars-content-id="2b07b66c-41b9-401d-929e-fd808a874fcd" data-vars-headline="New series spotlights local artists with weeknight performances" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.creativephl.org/weeknightslive/" target="_blank">Weeknights Live</a>, a new series spotlighting local artists, offers a midweek pick-me-up for the city&#x27;s bar and restaurant scene.

Don't rule out Pennsylvania for Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce's wedding spot

Swift and Kelce have been tight-lipped about wedding plans.

Could one of the biggest pop culture events of 2026 take place in Pennsylvania? Don&#x27;t count it out.The intrigue: You can pretty much bet on anything these days, including where Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will get married.<ul><li>Popular prediction market <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kalshi" data-vars-click-url="https://kalshi.com/markets/kxswiftkelceweddinglocation/where-will-taylor-swift-get-married/kxswiftkelceweddinglocation-30" data-vars-content-id="04954efa-d0fc-4112-8980-a8c883101e0c" data-vars-headline="Don&#x27;t rule out Pennsylvania for Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce&#x27;s wedding spot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kalshi.com/markets/kxswiftkelceweddinglocation/where-will-taylor-swift-get-married/kxswiftkelceweddinglocation-30" target="_blank">Kalshi</a> has it as a close race between New York and Rhode Island. </li></ul>

New property tax assessments are coming in Philadelphia

Bigger bills are on the way for many property owners despite Mayor Cherelle Parker not proposing a citywide tax hike.

Real Estate

Philadelphia is resuming property assessments after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="taking a year off" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/03/31/property-taxes-assessments-2025-skipped-parker" data-vars-content-id="d7c149bf-5dff-456e-9bc3-76f15742f4c5" data-vars-headline="New property tax assessments are coming in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/03/31/property-taxes-assessments-2025-skipped-parker" target="_self">taking a year off</a>.Why it matters: Bigger bills are on the way for many property owners despite Mayor <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cherelle Parker" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/12/city-budget-cherelle-parker-business-taxes-ride-shares" data-vars-content-id="d7c149bf-5dff-456e-9bc3-76f15742f4c5" data-vars-headline="New property tax assessments are coming in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/12/city-budget-cherelle-parker-business-taxes-ride-shares" target="_self">Cherelle Parker</a> not proposing a citywide tax hike.

This Philly filmmaker is cutting cheesesteak history into bites

Colin Comstock promies compelling, highly researched content on his platforms, not just another slab of repackaged ribeye.

Colin Comstock was in a sauna, sweating out those extra calories, when it hit him: Why cram Philly&#x27;s cheesesteak history into one big documentary when he could serve it up in bite-sized pieces?Why it matters: The 45-year-old Temple alum and Philly filmmaker is launching his new content platform, Cheesesteak City, timed to National Cheesesteak Day on Tuesday.

Sorry, Baltimore, but Philly still rules the cheesesteak world

We're cooking up a record-setting 1,200-foot cheesesteak on National Cheesesteak Day to prove we're still No. 1.

Steak your claim: Philadelphia has the best cheesesteaks in the world, bar none.Why it matters: It&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Cheesesteak Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/03/24/samboner-show-podcast-philadelphia-cheesesteak" data-vars-content-id="351c75df-1cf4-46a2-b0ab-52df9e8cbc6e" data-vars-headline="Sorry, Baltimore, but Philly still rules the cheesesteak world" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/03/24/samboner-show-podcast-philadelphia-cheesesteak" target="_self">National Cheesesteak Day</a>, and we&#x27;re honoring our massive contribution to this country with another impressive attempted feat: setting a new world record for the longest cheesesteak ever created (more on that later).

Healing Verse turns grief into public art in Germantown

The 14 art installations are being unveiled across Germantown on April 11.

Darlene Wilson-Bennett&#x27;s life is like a &quot;book with many missing pages&quot; — torn out the day her son, Justin, was fatally shot in 2009.The big picture: She wrote those words in a poem, &quot;Mama Song,&quot; 16 years ago. Now, they&#x27;ll be part of a massive art installation in Germantown next month, memorializing lives lost to gun violence across Philadelphia.

Catch a coaster — and a safari — at Six Flags Great Adventure

Spring break at Six Flags Great Adventure starts March 28 with 350 acres of safari near Philly.

Partners

Spring break is around the corner, and summer isn&#x27;t far behind — for families around Philly, that means one thing: it&#x27;s time to get out and make some memories.What you need to know: Six Flags Great Adventure is kicking off its Safari Spring Break Celebration on select dates from March 28 to April 12, giving Philly-area families a can&#x27;t-miss destination this season.<ul><li>Six Flags Great Adventure is in the sweet spot between Philadelphia and New York City in Jackson, New Jersey — an easy drive for families across the region.</li><li>For the best value, snag a 2026 Gold Pass for the price of Silver through April 5 and get access to more Six Flags parks and free parking all season long.</li></ul>

Philadelphia is turning brunch into a party

Liquid Brunch is hosting its first amped-up brunch on April 4 at Fabrika.

Forget the mimosas and small talk. Brunch is getting an overhaul, Philly style.Why it matters: Organizers hope its high-octane spin on the classic weekend pastime launches a wave of people seeking a mashup of daytime dining with nightlife vibes.

Full lineup revealed for this summer's Roots Picnic

The two-day outdoor festival is among the biggest summer concerts in Philadelphia.

Music

Erykah Badu will headline the closing day of the Roots Festival.Why it matters: The two-day outdoor festival is among the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest summer events" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="1b6dfa7e-289a-4431-a8e9-de93e756a1b1" data-vars-headline="Full lineup revealed for this summer&#x27;s Roots Picnic" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">biggest summer events</a> in Philadelphia.

What to expect at Philadelphia's World Cup Fan Festival

The free party at Lemon Hill will be the spot to experience the entire tourney outside the South Philly arena.

Philadelphia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" data-vars-content-id="468cb4f6-5eed-4a85-8686-47c3d0d34373" data-vars-headline="What to expect at Philadelphia&#x27;s World Cup Fan Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" target="_self">World Cup</a> festival in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fairmount Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/07/28/world-cup-2026-fan-festival-philly-lemon-hill" data-vars-content-id="468cb4f6-5eed-4a85-8686-47c3d0d34373" data-vars-headline="What to expect at Philadelphia&#x27;s World Cup Fan Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/07/28/world-cup-2026-fan-festival-philly-lemon-hill" target="_self">Fairmount Park</a> this summer is coming into focus.Why it matters: The free party at Lemon Hill will be the spot to experience the tourney from start to finish outside the South Philly arena.

Philadelphia weekend: "Firstival," Holi festival and spring cleaning swap

🍻 Grab a bite and drink outdoors at Pennsylvania Horticultural Society&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pop-up gardens" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/17/pop-up-gardens-things-to-do-drinks-pennsylvania-horticultural-society" data-vars-content-id="61cce482-3074-4d17-8a38-cfc65b23908f" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekend: &quot;Firstival,&quot; Holi festival and spring cleaning swap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/17/pop-up-gardens-things-to-do-drinks-pennsylvania-horticultural-society" target="_self">pop-up gardens</a> in Manayunk and South Street. Open daily (weather permitting). ♻️ Get into the swing of spring cleaning at this <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="community swap and resource exchange" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cultureworksphila.org/events/spring-clean-swap-meet-resource-exchange" data-vars-content-id="61cce482-3074-4d17-8a38-cfc65b23908f" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekend: &quot;Firstival,&quot; Holi festival and spring cleaning swap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cultureworksphila.org/events/spring-clean-swap-meet-resource-exchange" target="_blank">community swap and resource exchange</a> tonight at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CultureWorks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cultureworksphila.org/" data-vars-content-id="61cce482-3074-4d17-8a38-cfc65b23908f" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekend: &quot;Firstival,&quot; Holi festival and spring cleaning swap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cultureworksphila.org/" target="_blank">CultureWorks</a> in Center City from 5-8pm. Bring items you no longer need, browse what others are offering, and connect with like-minded creatives. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Register online" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-clean-swap-meet-resource-exchange-tickets-1983483047188?aff=oddtdtcreator" data-vars-content-id="61cce482-3074-4d17-8a38-cfc65b23908f" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekend: &quot;Firstival,&quot; Holi festival and spring cleaning swap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-clean-swap-meet-resource-exchange-tickets-1983483047188?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank">Register online</a>. <ul><li>Ideas for the swap: Art supplies, craft materials, home goods, clothing, books, records, curios and office supplies. </li></ul>

Comcast Spectacor to ditch Philadelphia Wings lacrosse team

America's sportiest sport city will likely lose its only indoor box lacrosse team.

Philly sports titan <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Comcast Spectacor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/02/sixers-comcast-spectacor-new-arena-south-philadelphia" data-vars-content-id="7f7e0454-6cc3-4b4a-8167-748c593cfdeb" data-vars-headline="Comcast Spectacor to ditch Philadelphia Wings lacrosse team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/02/sixers-comcast-spectacor-new-arena-south-philadelphia" target="_self">Comcast Spectacor</a> is dropping ownership of the Philadelphia Wings lacrosse team next month.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America&#x27;s sportiest sports city" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/04/the-ultimate-case-for-philly-as-1-of-americas-best-sports-cities" data-vars-content-id="7f7e0454-6cc3-4b4a-8167-748c593cfdeb" data-vars-headline="Comcast Spectacor to ditch Philadelphia Wings lacrosse team" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/04/the-ultimate-case-for-philly-as-1-of-americas-best-sports-cities" target="_self">America&#x27;s sportiest sports city</a> will likely lose its only indoor box lacrosse team.

Big spending, bigger expectations for the Phillies

Phillies fans continue to pay big bucks to watch their championship-starved team. But they're losing patience.

Phillies owner John Middleton has opened his checkbook to build one of baseball&#x27;s most expensive rosters. And Phillies fans are paying the price, too.Why it matters: As ticket prices soar, fans say they need a championship payoff this season to justify the rising cost of following the team.

This Phillies sports fan knows bad. He says fans have little to complain about

The Parx Casino sports gambling influencer is playing the reverse Uno card on curmudgeonly fans upset about paying steep tix prices.

Patrick &quot;Maniac&quot; Malloy remembers the lean years, when fans went to the old Veterans Stadium less to watch the Phillies lose and more to catch players for autographs as they headed to their cars.Why it matters: The Parx Casino sports gambling influencer is playing the reverse Uno card on curmudgeonly fans upset about paying steep prices to watch their team on Opening Day.

What's new at Citizens Bank Park this season

Yummy ballpark fare and new renovations can boost the game experience — especially when the Phils are losing or the weather is bad.

Citizens Bank Park is rolling out several new eats and amenities for the 2026 season.Why it matters: Yummy ballpark fare and upgrades to the team store and Cadillac Hall of Fame Club can boost the game experience — especially when the Phils are losing, or the weather is bad.

March Madness: NCAA Men's Tournament comes to Philadelphia

It's one of the biggest sporting events in Philly this year and tickets are still up for grabs.

March Madness rolls into Philadelphia this weekend with big matchups.Why it matters: The NCAA men&#x27;s basketball tourney is one of the biggest sporting events in Philly — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in a year that&#x27;s packed with them" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="de75acdb-109b-40c7-8bc1-2cee385cb6b2" data-vars-headline="March Madness: NCAA Men&#x27;s Tournament comes to Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">in a year that&#x27;s packed with them</a> — and tickets are still up for grabs.

HOA fees rise in Philly metro as more homes list with fees

Climbing HOA fees add to the already high cost of homeownership.

More homes listed for sale in the Philadelphia region came with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homeowners association" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/29/condo-hoa-fee-state" data-vars-content-id="a4e4e221-48ae-46cb-aa2a-f8d773318f99" data-vars-headline="HOA fees rise in Philly metro as more homes list with fees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/29/condo-hoa-fee-state" target="_self">homeowners association</a> fees in 2025 — and those dues grew from the previous year, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Realtor.com" data-vars-click-url="https://www.realtor.com/research/homeowners-associations-2025" data-vars-content-id="a4e4e221-48ae-46cb-aa2a-f8d773318f99" data-vars-headline="HOA fees rise in Philly metro as more homes list with fees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.realtor.com/research/homeowners-associations-2025" target="_blank">Realtor.com</a> data shows.Why it matters: Climbing HOA fees add to the already high cost of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homeownership" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" data-vars-content-id="a4e4e221-48ae-46cb-aa2a-f8d773318f99" data-vars-headline="HOA fees rise in Philly metro as more homes list with fees" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" target="_self">homeownership</a>.

Philadelphia homeowners are staying put longer than ever

That — along with still-high home prices and tight inventory — is keeping the housing market on ice.

Homes in the Philadelphia region just aren&#x27;t <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="changing hands" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/09/homeowner-years-mortgage-rates-metro" data-vars-content-id="950307e2-16f3-4cc3-ac16-32f3e86d64e7" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia homeowners are staying put longer than ever" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/09/homeowner-years-mortgage-rates-metro" target="_self">changing hands</a> like they used to. Why it matters: That — along with still-high home prices and tight inventory — is keeping the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing market" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" data-vars-content-id="950307e2-16f3-4cc3-ac16-32f3e86d64e7" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia homeowners are staying put longer than ever" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" target="_self">housing market</a> on ice.

The gap between renting and owning in Philly

Philly's shortage of affordable housing shortage and declining home ownership rates are perennial problems.

Owning a home is 40% more expensive in Philadelphia than renting — a national trend playing out across all 100 of the largest U.S. metro areas, per a LendingTree <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/comparing-rent-vs-owning-a-home-in-nations-largest-metros/" data-vars-content-id="5fc98c70-ae15-4771-9457-12ea3ecce4eb" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Philly" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.lendingtree.com/home/mortgage/comparing-rent-vs-owning-a-home-in-nations-largest-metros/" target="_blank">analysis</a>.Why it matters: Housing costs have soared nationwide, with stubbornly high home prices and mortgage rates weighing on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="would-be buyers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" data-vars-content-id="5fc98c70-ae15-4771-9457-12ea3ecce4eb" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Philly" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/01/mortgage-rates-home-prices-predictions-2026" target="_self">would-be buyers</a>.<ul><li>Homeowners with a mortgage now pay around 37% more per month than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="renters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/06/apartment-rent-prices" data-vars-content-id="5fc98c70-ae15-4771-9457-12ea3ecce4eb" data-vars-headline="The gap between renting and owning in Philly" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/06/apartment-rent-prices" target="_self">renters</a>, researchers found.</li></ul>

Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia

Philly's 2025 turnover rate was among one of the lowest in the country.

Just 1.8% of Philly metro homes <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="changed hands" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/10/home-sale-contract-cancel" data-vars-content-id="b94b1f2e-c5b0-436f-9486-2e1460bc18e5" data-vars-headline="Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/10/home-sale-contract-cancel" target="_self">changed hands</a> in the first nine months of this year, down from a 2.6% turnover rate in 2019, per a Redfin <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.redfin.com/news/home-turnover-report-2025/" data-vars-content-id="b94b1f2e-c5b0-436f-9486-2e1460bc18e5" data-vars-headline="Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.redfin.com/news/home-turnover-report-2025/" target="_blank">analysis</a>.Why it matters: Nationally, homes are selling &quot;at historically low rates&quot; as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/03/homes-buyers-sellers-redfin" data-vars-content-id="b94b1f2e-c5b0-436f-9486-2e1460bc18e5" data-vars-headline="Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/03/homes-buyers-sellers-redfin" target="_self">costs</a> stay high, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homeowners" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/housing-population-growth" data-vars-content-id="b94b1f2e-c5b0-436f-9486-2e1460bc18e5" data-vars-headline="Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/housing-population-growth" target="_self">homeowners</a> cling to cheaper mortgages, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/01/stock-market-gdp-inflation" data-vars-content-id="b94b1f2e-c5b0-436f-9486-2e1460bc18e5" data-vars-headline="Homeowners are staying put in Philadelphia" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/01/stock-market-gdp-inflation" target="_self">economic</a> uncertainty makes shoppers hesitate, per the real estate site.

Pennsylvania's mortgage-free homes

Mortgage or not, it's getting pricier to own and maintain a home.

The share of mortgage-free homes in Pennsylvania has marched upward over the past decade, per the latest Census Bureau data.Why it matters: This national trend comes as homeowners stay put and more people buy homes with cash.

Millennials' slice of Philadelphia region's housing market

Nearly 40% of Philly's housing stock was built before 1939, making for potentially costly repairs for first-time homebuyers.

Millennials made up nearly 53% of mortgage purchase inquiries in the Philadelphia metro last year, down from roughly 56% in 2023, according to a LendingTree analysis. Why it matters: High <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="housing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/housing-population-growth" data-vars-content-id="cfb1ffec-d0d4-4903-b49e-8b6016b20d6f" data-vars-headline="Millennials&#x27; slice of Philadelphia region&#x27;s housing market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/09/housing-population-growth" target="_self">housing</a> prices, near-6% mortgage rates and a shortage of affordable homes are keeping many <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shoppers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/20/fixer-upper-home-sale" data-vars-content-id="cfb1ffec-d0d4-4903-b49e-8b6016b20d6f" data-vars-headline="Millennials&#x27; slice of Philadelphia region&#x27;s housing market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/20/fixer-upper-home-sale" target="_self">shoppers</a>, especially younger people, out of the market.

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