Philly
Today
Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Good morning, Philadelphia. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Local restaurant and lodging groups are pushing for a temporary permit to allow bars to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. during the 2026 FIFA World Cup — starting June 11 in Philadelphia. The move aims to boost tourism and meet expected demand but requires new state legislation. The Philadelphia Inquirer
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Blue Man Group returns to Philadelphia with a major twist (their first female DJ/drummer known as the Rockstar) on a new tour. The show runs Feb. 25 through March 1 at Miller Theater and blends new material with fan-favorite acts for a unique, audience-involved musical experience. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ Philadelphia couples can experience the immersive Wedding Walk on Sunday, March 22, from noon to 5 p.m. Cypress & Salt Events has announced the citywide showcase at 10 venues with styled décor, cuisine, and music & offers a VIP brunch at Fitler Club and an after party at City Winery. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ Philadelphia cultural institutions are extending Black History Month to honor local history with events connected to the 250th anniversary of Independence. Events include museum programs (Feb. 21 Family Fun Night, Feb. 25 speaker series) and exhibitions at historic venues. WHYY
- ➤ Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson died yesterday at his Chicago home after battling a rare neurological disorder. He energized Philadelphia's Black community for more than five decades and is remembered as a pioneering voice in civil rights. The Philadelphia Inquirer
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ On Tuesday, City Council signaled their willingness to hold back funding to contest a plan that would close 20 schools as part of a facilities proposal by the School District. Lawmakers urged delaying the Board of Education presentation on Feb. 26 while officials review community feedback. Metro Philadelphia
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Philadelphia Zoo has launched its Actions for Animals campaign, asking residents to complete 250,000 conservation activities such as neighborhood cleanups, planting native species & wildlife surveys. The project supports conservation efforts ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026. Metro Philadelphia
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said she is thrilled that a judge ruled in favor of restoring the President’s House Site panels removed on Jan. 22 — a decision that the Interior Department is now appealing to delay the exhibit's return. WHYY
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Phillies start spring training in Clearwater on Saturday, Feb. 21 with veterans re-signed and new faces joining the mix — key focus is on Bryce Harper proving himself and Zack Wheeler returning after surgery. The team aims for a strong season as workouts begin. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ The Eagles plan to extend DT Jalen Carter with a three-year deal estimated at ($115 to $135 million) and a mid 20-million-dollar fifth-year option as they secure the young defensive talent amid a rising salary cap and market pressures. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ The Eagles announced Tuesday that their South Philadelphia practice facility will be renamed the Jefferson Health Training Complex — Jefferson Health now holds naming rights while NovaCare remains the official physical therapy partner. The facility has been home since 2001. KYW Newsradio
- ➤ Philly Sports Network released its 2026 MLS season predictions, forecasting that the Philadelphia Union will turn heads despite offseason changes+teams like Inter Miami and LAFC are expected to vie for conference titles as the season unfolds. Metro Philadelphia
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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