More to do

Visit the markets

The Reading Terminal (51 N 12th St.) is one of my favorites in the area. They have excellent options for a light bite and you can visit the iconic Philbert the Pig inside the market, named after a nearby street and dubbed the mascot of the Reading Terminal. Philbert’s currently wearing a mask, but generally you can feed him money that is then used to fight hunger in Philadelphia.

You can find some really amazing meats, cheeses, and groceries to take home from the Little Italy shops on 9th Street, including from places like Di Bruno Brothers (930 S 9th St.), also known as the house of cheese, and Claudio's Specialty Foods (924 S 9th St.) for specialty foods like salumeria and cheeses.

For the holidays

Christmas Pop Up Bar, Tinsel (116 S 12th St.): I first learned about Tinsel when I was looking into doing the Nightmare Before Tinsel, where they transform this Christmas pop-up bar into a Halloween-themed spot with spooky cocktails and a haunted house entryway. For the Halloween event, they were selling $20 tickets online so you could reserve a time slot which secured you entry, food, and drinks. This helps the bar maintain COVID regulations. Be sure to check their social media sites to find out when ticket sales begin for their Christmas pop up.

The Four Seasons will be completely decked out for the holidays, creating opportunities for holiday photos. They will be offering holiday workshops that include everything from decorating gingerbread houses and craft-cocktail mixology classes to creating floral centerpieces with Jeff Leatham. Learn the skills of the executive pastry chef, Ryan Schmitt, as he teaches you how to decorate cookies, covering piping skills and fondant accessories. Learn more about event sign up by visiting their website.