PHILADELPHIA, PA — It's crisp autumn in the Delaware Valley, and Philadelphia is buzzing with massive seasonal energy. If you are wondering how to navigate the ultimate October weekend in 2026, we have mapped out everything you need. From cheering on the Flyers as they return to the ice at the Wells Fargo Center to shopping the 10th anniversary of the Made in Philadelphia Fall Market at Dilworth Park, the city is packed with action. For those seeking spooky season thrills, immerse yourself in haunted chocolate boxes, elaborate Halloween pop-up bars, and suburban pumpkin patches. Here are the premier Things to do in Philly this weekend.
1. Early Morning Football and the Return of the Flyers
Philadelphia sports fans have a unique schedule to navigate this weekend. You won't find the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field—they are across the pond playing the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Sunday morning. Set your alarms and consult our guide to the best bars to watch the Eagles on game day for a 9:30 a.m. breakfast kickoff. Later that evening, the South Philadelphia sports complex comes alive as the Philadelphia Flyers host the Carolina Hurricanes at 7:00 p.m.. Meanwhile, the 76ers continue their preseason on the road, facing off against the Celtics in Boston on Saturday night.
...# Things to Do in Philadelphia This Weekend: October 9-11, 2026
1. Early Morning Football and the Return of the Flyers
Philadelphia sports fans have a unique schedule to navigate this weekend. You won't find the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field—they are across the pond playing the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Sunday morning. Set your alarms and consult our guide to the best bars to watch the Eagles for a 9:30 a.m. breakfast kickoff. Later that evening, the South Philadelphia sports complex comes alive as the Philadelphia Flyers host the Carolina Hurricanes at 7:00 p.m. Meanwhile, the 76ers continue their preseason on the road, facing off against the Celtics in Boston on Saturday night.
2. Shop the 10th Anniversary Made in Philadelphia Fall Market
Celebrate a major milestone at Dilworth Park from Friday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11. The Made in Philadelphia Fall Market is returning for its 10th anniversary, transforming the west side of City Hall into an open-air marketplace. Browse seasonal decor, vintage clothing, and handcrafted jewelry from over 80 local artisans while snacking on fire-roasted street corn.
3. Hit the Old Fashioned Tavern Trail
Running from October 9 through October 18, Elijah Craig is celebrating Old Fashioned Week by launching Philly's Old Fashioned Whiskey Trail. Stop by participating local institutions like Lloyd Whiskey Bar in Fishtown, The Twisted Tail in Headhouse Square, and Ripplewood Whiskey & Craft in Ardmore. One dollar from every signature Old Fashioned sold benefits the Southern Smoke Foundation’s emergency relief for hospitality workers.
4. Get Spooked at Immersive Halloween Pop-Ups & Haunted Houses
Philadelphia's bar and attraction scene is in full Halloween mode. Head to Jeweler's Row to grab a massive, candy-loaded milkshake at Craftsman Row Saloon’s "Enchanted Nightmare" pop-up, or hunt down The Newsroom Spookeasy hidden behind a vintage 7UP machine in Center City. In Manayunk, brave the production-quality scares of the Lincoln Mill Haunted House, then recover with an extraterrestrial-themed cocktail at Taqueria Amor's "Taq Area 51" pop-up.
5. Taste Real Ghost Stories in Old City
Pick-ups have officially begun for the highly anticipated limited-edition collection from America's oldest candy shop. Shane Confectionery unveils Haunted Philadelphia Halloween box sets featuring 14 chocolates inspired by real local paranormal encounters. Only 125 boxes were produced, complete with a beeswax ghost candle and an illustrated historical zine. A-la-carte pieces are also available in their Market Street chocolate case.
6. Escape the City for Delaware Harvest Festivals
With the crisp autumn weather settling in, it is the perfect weekend to cross the state line and explore the best hayrides and pumpkin patches in Delaware. From coastal farm stands to sprawling agricultural mazes, these rural destinations offer a quieter, family-friendly alternative to the busy urban Halloween pop-ups.
7. Discover Philly's Newest Coffee Innovator
Support local entrepreneurs this weekend by following the launch of Defiant Coffee Co. Former WinWin Coffee CEO Nikisha Bailey and philanthropist Natalie Carless have teamed up to create a new brand built on culture and equity. Sourcing directly from marginalized farmers across the Caribbean and the African diaspora, the brand is preparing for a massive fall rollout guided by Grammy-winning executive Steve-O Carless.
8. Plan Ahead: Book Upcoming October Events
Several major regional events are rapidly approaching and require advanced tickets or planning this weekend:
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October 17: The Manayunk Fall Festival and Mac N Cheese Crawl returns to historic Main Street with 50+ artisan makers, a dedicated Kids Market on Venice Island, and a ticketed tasting tour across 19 participating restaurants.
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October 17: On the Main Line, Goodness Bowls celebrates Paoli grand opening starting at 9:00 a.m. The first 50 guests in line who sign up for rewards will receive a free Avalon Bowl.
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October 27: Secure your reservations before they sell out as Harvest Seasonal Grill Glen Mills hosts 6-course Halloween dinner. The $89 pairing menu features darkly playful dishes like "The Pharaoh’s Heart" and "The Lovecraft Salad."
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