Happy Friday, Delco!

Super Bowl Weekend is finally here. Whether you're team wings-and-beer or team "I'm just here for the commercials," Sunday's going to be a good one.

Before you hunker down for kickoff, there's actually a lot happening around the county this weekend — a free Grammy-winning concert at Swarthmore, early Valentine's events, winter garden previews, and some solid options for a Saturday night out.

Oh, and County Council just approved another tax increase. Third year in a row. We'll get into it.

In today's edition:

— From Ridley to Radnor

County Council voted to raise property taxes by 19 percent this week, marking the third consecutive annual increase following hikes of 5% in 2024 and 23% in 2025.

For a home assessed at $255,000, that works out to roughly $188 more per year. The total county budget now stands at $957.8 million, up 6.6% from last year.

Council formed a 60-member Community Budget Task Force in response to resident concerns. A new Real Estate Tax Deferral Program is available for eligible homeowners who need relief.

The increases stem from ongoing budget pressures including pension obligations, healthcare costs, and infrastructure needs. County officials say they're working to stabilize finances while maintaining services.

Click Here: To read more about the budget and tax changes.

Here's a head-scratcher: home sales in Delaware County dropped about 4% compared to last year, yet the median sale price hit $294,125 — up over 10% year-over-year.

That puts the Philly metro among the top three markets nationally for price gains, even as 7% mortgage rates keep buyers on the sidelines.

"You're just not seeing a lot of activity happening," Redfin analyst Chen Zhao told the Inquirer. But the buyers who are in the market? They're paying premium prices on limited inventory.

If you're house-hunting this weekend, Zillow shows 44 open houses across Delaware County, with a median list price around $335,000.

Click Here: To read the full Philadelphia Inquirer story.

This is legitimately one of the best free events in Delaware County all year.

Third Coast Percussion, a Chicago-based quartet with a Grammy on the shelf, performs at Swarthmore College's Lang Concert Hall on Saturday at 8:00 PM. The program, "Strum, Strike, Bend," features violinist Simone Porter in a concerto by Lou Harrison, plus a new work by Jessie Montgomery.

World-class musicians. Intimate venue. Completely free admission.

If you've never been to a Cooper Series concert at Swarthmore, this is the one to start with.

Click Here: To learn more about Third Coast Percussion.

Upper Darby has emerged as a focal point for federal immigration enforcement activity in Delaware County, with multiple ICE operations reported in early February.

State and local officials have responded, and community organizations are providing resources for residents concerned about their rights. The situation remains fluid.

Separately, East Lansdowne police announced plans to install AI-powered cameras capable of tracking suspects in public spaces in real time — a move that's drawing both support for public safety and questions about surveillance.

One of the best free family events of the year returns Sunday.

The Willows Mansion in Villanova hosts its annual Love & Chocolate celebration from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Expect themed craft stations, valentine-making, hot chocolate and cookies, a balloon-room photo op, and storytimes at 11:30, 12:15, and 1:00.

It's free, it's indoors, and it's perfectly timed before Super Bowl kickoff.

Location: 490 Darby-Paoli Road, Villanova (Radnor Township)

Click Here: For more details.

If you haven't been to one of these yet, this weekend's your chance.

The Candlelight Concert Series brings string quartets to Media Theatre surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles. It's atmospheric, intimate, and way more romantic than your average Saturday night.

This weekend's lineup: "90s Unplugged" (Saturday 6:45 PM), "Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons" (Saturday 8:45 PM), "Tribute to Whitney Houston" (Sunday 6:45 PM), and "Tribute to Fleetwood Mac" (Sunday 8:45 PM).

Tickets start around $37–$63 depending on the show. Perfect pre-Valentine's date night.

Location: Media Theatre, 104 E. State Street, Media

Click Here: To browse showtimes and book tickets.

Valentine's season means wine-and-chocolate pairings at the Brandywine Valley wineries.

Penns Woods Winery runs its signature pairings every weekend in February — five wines matched with handcrafted bon bons from Good Good Chocolates for $36/person. Saturdays noon–7 PM, Sundays noon–6 PM. Reservations required and weekends often sell out.

Chaddsford Winery offers Wine & Chocolate Reserve Tastings ($25–40) with fire-pit tables available for outdoor seating.

Click Here: To book at Penns Woods.

Events marked with ($) require tickets or have an admission fee.

Super Bowl LIX kicks off Sunday evening. Expect watch parties at bars and restaurants across Delco — The Fainting Goat in Glenolden, local sports bars in Media, Havertown, and beyond. Call ahead for reservations at your favorite spot.

Market Street (PA 452) at Conchester Highway (US 322) is closed in both directions from Friday 7:00 PM through Monday 5:00 AM for bridge demolition. Plan alternate routes.

Have a great weekend, Delco. Stay warm, enjoy the game, and we'll see you next week.

— From Ridley to Radnor