January 13, 2026
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Thom Carroll/PhillyVoice
Philadelphia City Hall from the Parkway.
Winter may be in full swing, but Philadelphia’s calendar isn’t slowing down. From fresh theater openings and seasonal shopping events to dining deals and meaningful commemorations, this week offers plenty of reasons to step out and explore, even if the couch is calling.
The week kicks off with the debut of "Sherlock Holmes: The Great Detective" at the Walnut Street Theatre, opening Tuesday. The new production brings the world's most fmaous detective back to Center City with a classic mystery well suited for a cold-weather outing.
Shopping takes the spotlight Thursday when Philly Flurry returns to Fairmount. The neighborhood-wide promotion runs for two weeks, featuring sales, specials and in-store events from local retailers.
By Friday, winter takes a tropical turn at Longwood Gardens, where Winter Wonder begins its seasonal run. The immersive display blends lush indoor gardens with illuminated outdoor landscapes, offering a warm-weather escape without leaving the region.
Food lovers can plan ahead for Sunday, when Center City District Restaurant Week launches two weeks of prix-fixe dining deals at participating restaurants across downtown.
The weekend also brings a series of events honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Beginning Saturday and continuing through Jan. 19, 2026, local institutions including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Woodmere Art Museum and Eastern State Penitentiary will host special programs, exhibitions and commemorations as part of MLK Weekend.
Here's more of the best things to do in Philadelphia this week, courtesy of Visit Philadelphia.
When: January 12 & 17
Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, 3601 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
When: January 12-25
Where: Participating restaurants including Nektar Wine Bar, 8 W. Mechanic Street, New Hope, PA
When: January 13-25
Where: The Wilma Theater, 265 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
When: January 14, 16 & 19
Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, 3601 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
When: Saturday, January 17 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA
