Celebrations
Philly’s Stories, Voices, and Culture on Full Display
Ring It On will bring the 250th directly into neighborhoods through a series of engaging public programs designed to spark joy, elevate local culture, and deepen civic engagement.
Programs:
Bells Across America
America250PA’s “Bells Across PA” will bring 20 artist-designed Liberty Bell replicas to neighborhoods across Philadelphia, reflecting local identities, celebrating the nation’s 250th, and creating a citywide treasure map for residents and visitors to explore.
Block Party Bonanza
The 2026 Block Party Bonanza will deliver celebration kits to 250 blocks and super-sized parties to contest winners, sparking civic pride while supporting local vendors and small businesses.
Neighborhood Tour Series
The 2026 City of Neighborhoods Tour Series will spotlight a different community each week, co-created with residents to showcase local culture, expand tourism beyond Center City, and build career pathways in hospitality.
250th Legacy Projects
About:
PHILADELPHIA250 is supporting three social impact projects from now through 2026, for a total of $250,000. The social impact projects, are: Our Market’s Community Tours, Smith Memorial Playground’s Revolutionary Action Figures, and Special Olympics PA’s Cities of Inclusion. These three Philly-made social innovations were selected through the 2022 Leave a Legacy grant competition.
Women's Committee for the 250th
About:
The Women’s Committee for the 250th builds on a powerful legacy of women shaping America’s milestone celebrations, dating back to 1876. From leading historic restorations to showcasing women’s innovations, their efforts have left a lasting civic impact. In 2026, the Committee continues this tradition by supporting transformational projects that honor women’s contributions to history and democracy. The projects include a $75,000 grant to the Women’s Opportunities Resource Center to support women-owned small businesses; and the restoration of Belmont Mansion, a historic site and former stop on the Underground Railroad. These projects spotlight the enduring leadership of women and their role in shaping both Philadelphia and the nation’s future.
Beautifications
About:
Selected commercial corridors will receive a series of physical improvements meant to promote the growth of small business, enhance the quality of life of residents, and incentivize new commercial development. Professional design experts will work directly with community organizations to set priorities for each corridor and make recommendations for investment. Beautification projects could include: decorative banners promoting the neighborhood brand and semi quincentennial anniversary; custom designed 250th commemorative benches; large planters featuring seasonal installations; and other streetscape improvements to create clean, safe and welcoming spaces for visitors and shoppers to enjoy.
Activations
About:
Local professional event planners will be paired with community development organizations to support the creation of new, or enhancement of existing, cultural festivals and celebrations along the selected commercial corridors. The goal of the activations is to engage current residents, attract new visitors, promote local businesses by driving foot traffic and visibility, and build the capacity of the supporting community organization. These community events will be featured in a robust calendar of 2026 events spread across every neighborhood engaging residents where they live and providing memorable experiences that create lasting impact.
Neighborhood Tour Series
Photo provided by T. Connaughton
City of Neighborhoods Tour Series
In spring and summer 2026, a 20-week tour series will celebrate Philadelphia’s diverse neighborhoods, highlighting local culture, restaurants, shops, parks, and historic landmarks. Tour guides will work with residents and community historians to co-create each experience, shaping routes, scripts, and training local guides. These tours aim to share neighborhood stories, encourage visitors beyond Center City, and support skills development in tourism and hospitality.
Block Party Bonanza
Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Block Party Bonanza
In 2026, a favorite Philly tradition gets a historic upgrade. PHL250, in partnership with the Office of Clean and Green and the Streets Department, will deliver “Life, Liberty, and Happiness” kits to 250 blocks, filled with themed swag, decorations, games, and gift cards to spark celebration and pride. The 25 finalists in the City’s annual “Most Beautiful Block” Contest will receive super-sized block parties with DJs, treats, inflatables, and more. A citywide call for local vendors will highlight Philly talent and support small businesses, turning neighborhoods into hubs of joy and community spirit.
Bells Across PA
Bells Across PA
PHL250 is partnering with America250PA and Mural Arts to create 20 large replica Liberty Bells designed with input from local communities. Each bell will reflect its neighborhood’s unique identity while commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Once completed, the bells will be displayed in commercial corridors and public parks, forming a citywide “treasure map” for residents and visitors to explore.