🦅 Go Birds! | Things to Do

Hi all! Sam Ruland, service editor, here filling in for Rosa this week.

What a week, Philly! We’re riding high as we approach the NFC championship this Sunday at 3 p.m. against Washington. Whether you’re tailgating, hosting a watch party, or just here for the snacks, this week’s lineup has something for everyone. Need ideas for the game day spread? Check out Hira Qureshi’s guide to Eagles-themed snacks below.

Here’s what else is happening this week:

— Sam Ruland (@sam_ruland, email me at thingstodo@inquirer.com)

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Nine chefs and six establishments in the Philly area are semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, the Oscars of food. From Greg Vernick’s mastery at Vernick Fish to Kalaya’s extraordinary Thai flavors, Philly’s culinary excellence is on full display. Newcomers like Mawn and Càphê Roasters are also making waves. Check out the full list of semifinalists, and consider making a reservation at one of these spots — because they’re about to get even hotter.

🎭 Never-before-heard Sinatra: This Saturday, hear hidden Frank Sinatra and Count Basie arrangements brought to life by Philly’s Brandon Tomasello and the City Rhythm Orchestra at Collingswood’s Scottish Rite Auditorium. These tunes sat untouched in the Library of Congress for nearly six decades — don’t miss this one-night-only event!

🏈 Go Birds! The NFC championship is Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Linc. Check out our roundup of the best Philly bars to watch the game, or stop by Jawn Supply in West Chester for vintage Eagles merch to rep your team in style.

🍪 Help L.A. restaurateurs with Sisterly Love cookie boxes: “Cookies for L.A.” offers curated cookie boxes featuring creations from 40 Philly bakers, including Machine Shop and Dandelion Bakes. All proceeds benefit women-owned businesses in L.A. affected by wildfires. Order online and pick up Jan. 26-27 at El Merkury.

🐉 Ring in the Year of the Snake: Lunar New Year celebrations are happening citywide, from dumpling-making classes to the Philly Suns’ Lion Dance Parade in Chinatown this Sunday at 10 p.m.

🍫 Sweet tooth? Head to the Philly Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival on Saturday for unlimited tastings.

🥖 Downtime Bakery in Mount Airy: Fresh sourdough, seasonal pies, and cozy vibes make this a new neighborhood favorite.

🥨 Eagles-themed snacks: From Parc’s boules with the Eagles logo to Dietz & Watson’s Bird Dogs, there’s no shortage of game-day eats.

📅 My calendar picks this week: Checking out a new restaurant during Center City’s restaurant week, ice skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink, and indulging in that cookie book from Sisterly Love.

In the spirit of “Dawg Mentality,” the Eagles are sponsoring adoption fees at three local shelters during their playoff run. Stop by Providence Animal Center, Street Tails Animal Rescue, or Homeward Bound to meet your new best friend (and see adorable pics of players hanging with pups).

🍪 Girl Scout cookies are back: Stock up on Thin Mints and Samoas before March 12. Find a local booth or order online.

⚾ Phillies tickets are on sale! Single-game tickets for the 2025 season go live Jan. 24. Whether you want to catch Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park (March 31) or snag a multi-game package, here’s how to get your seats.

🍹 Actually good nonalcoholic drinks for Dry January: From sparkling rosé to botanical sodas and nonalcoholic spirits, we’ve rounded up the best booze-free options that feel just as celebratory as the real thing. Perfect for parties or a quiet night in.

🍮 Baby’s Kusina & Market is opening soon! Brewerytown’s long-awaited Filipino spot opens Feb. 8, serving all-day comfort foods like lechon sisig bowls, ensaymada, and calamansi doughnuts, alongside a market featuring Southeast Asian ingredients.

Delco: The Movie debuted this weekend at the Media Theatre with a red carpet that could only happen in Delco. The indie comedy tells the story of three teens in 2004 living a day “the Delco Way” and is packed with local nods, from Wawa to Tom Jones Family Restaurant. With its mix of heart and humor, this film celebrates everything we love (and maybe poke fun at) about Delco.

Stay warm, Philly — and Go Birds! 🦅