Voters across the city are heading to the polls on May 19 for the Pennsylvania primary election. Only registered Democrats and Republicans can cast ballots for their respective party’s nominees. However, these choices will set the stage for crucial matchups in the November general election.

Here are the key candidates that West Philly voters are watching closely on the ballot:

The 3rd Congressional District race

Because the 3rd District spans all of West and Southwest Philadelphia, the primary to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans is the most consequential race on the ballot. Since this is one of the most heavily Democratic districts in the country, the winner of this primary is virtually guaranteed the seat in November.

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Whether you are looking to get your hands dirty or help maintain the neighborhood’s “green lungs,” West Philadelphia and nearby Southwest Philly offer several opportunities to support urban agriculture and public parks. These organizations are seeking neighbors to help with seasonal stewardship as the spring season reaches its peak.

Park Stewardship & Cleanups

Bartram’s Garden: The 50-acre National Historic Landmark depends on volunteers to maintain its community farm, botanical gardens, and orchard. They host regular “Wednesday Workdays” and “Saturday Service Days” where you can help with weeding, planting, and trail maintenance. Continue Reading

Movies in Clark Park returns in August. (Photo courtesy UCD)

Summer is just around the corner and the University City District has unveiled a schedule of live events in the neighborhood. From the return of the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll to outdoor movies in Clark Park, here’s what’s in store for the next four months.

Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll
June 4 and September 3 | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The stretch of Baltimore Avenue between 40th and 51st Street will once again transform for the Dollar Stroll. Neighborhood businesses and community vendors will offer $1, $3, and $5 deals on everything from signature bites and pet supplies to theater tickets. In addition, expect live music and local arts and crafts scattered along the avenue. Go here for more details.

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A major effort is underway to save nearly 1,000 affordable rental units in West and Southwest Philadelphia from being sold to for-profit developers.

The properties are owned by Neighborhood Restorations, which manages 925 units integrated into residential blocks across the Haddington, Mantua, Cobbs Creek, and Kingsessing neighborhoods. In July 2025, the company issued a notice of intent to sell — a move that could displace thousands as early as this July, according to a WHYY News report.

The potential sale poses a dual threat to the neighborhood’s stability: mass displacement and rising costs. The Stoneleigh Foundation estimates that at least 3,000 residents are at risk if these units convert to market-rate housing. A Reinvestment Fund study previously noted that this “scattered-site” model has been vital for neighborhood revitalization; losing them could drive up rents across the entire area.

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UPDATE (5/8/26): The Spruce Hill May Fair is still a go for tomorrow, despite rain showers in the afternoon forecast. Organizers are prepared to work around any passing clouds and hope the community will join them regardless of the weather.

The annual Spruce Hill May Fair, the biggest fundraising event for the Spruce Hill Community Association (SHCA), will be held in Clark Park (43rd and Chester) this Saturday, May 9, 12-6 p.m..

This year’s May Fair is expected to be “larger and livelier than ever,” according to the organizers. It will feature:

• Live music throughout the day, featuring Mad Beatz Philly, Ants on a Log, Settlement Music School Jazz Ensemble, Upholstery, and Steady State.

• Family friendly activities, including a Petting Zoo, moon bounce and obstacle course, free kids games, and Stacey’s Face Painting.

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A West Philly-rooted lineup graces the Trolley Portal Gardens this spring as Pop-Ups at the Portal returns to 40th and Baltimore Ave. starting May 7. University City District is teaming up with local performer and curator  Gretchen Elise to present five weeks of free, interactive, all-ages entertainment. Pop-ups will run every Thursday from May 7 through June 4, 5:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m., and are fair-weather only.

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