Philly
Today
Thursday, December 18th, 2025
Good morning, Philadelphia. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local holiday shopping events light up the weekend with multiple markets and pop-ups. Philly Brewing Company’s market runs Saturday, Dec. 20, from noon to 6 p.m. at 2440 Frankford Ave & Gather Food Hall, Art Star, and 48 Record Bar host pop-ups with local crafts and cocktails. Metro Philadelphia
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Wonder is opening a new Media location today at 1145 W. Baltimore Pike (ribbon-cutting begins at 4:30 p.m. with a gift for the first 100 guests) as the chain plans to double its restaurants by the end of 2026. The Philadelphia Inquirer
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Pennsylvania Youth Choral Ensemble premieres 'Three Cosmic Friends' at Temple Performing Arts Center on Friday, Dec. 19. The piece is based on a fantasy tale by 10-year-old Lizzy Thomas, whose writing was inspired by her family's cancer journey, and features an original score by Caleb Etchison. WHYY
- ➤ Several Nutcracker performances brighten Philadelphia’s holiday season. Philadelphia Ballet shows its classic rendition at the Kimmel Center through Dec. 31, actor Chris Davis presents a one-man version with a talkback on Dec. 20 at The Drake, and Chocolate Ballerina Company performs at Drexel University on Dec. 20-21. Metro Philadelphia
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ SEPTA officials said the trolley tunnel, closed since Nov. 13 for overhead wire repairs, will remain shut through December as 80,000 riders are shifted to shuttle buses. Test trolleys are running and a reopening date will be set once safety is confirmed — a decision pending further repairs. KYW Newsradio
- ➤ SEPTA admitted that insufficient testing before new trolley parts were installed caused unexpected damage in the Center City tunnel, forcing 80,000 riders to take detoured routes since Nov. 7 + workers are testing and repairing components as the tunnel remains closed through December. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ The water department sent letters this month to inform homeowners about checking if their service lines are lead-free and is digitizing records for nearly half a million properties. Residents with undetermined or lead pipes are urged to call for free water testing (available by appointment). WHYY
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ After a dominant 31—0 win against the Raiders on Sunday, the Eagles prepare to face the Washington Commanders in a crucial divisional matchup, aiming to build momentum before their game against the Bills next week. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ The Phillies finalized a 2-year deal with free agent reliever Brad Keller, signing him to a $22 million contract to serve as the club's #2 RHP in the bullpen (replacing David Robertson) and strengthening the pitching staff. Metro Philadelphia
- ➤ DeVonta Smith continues to be a key playmaker for the Eagles & delivers clutch catches that boost offensive drives today. His precise routes are crucial as the team prepares for a playoff run. Metro Philadelphia
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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