As part of the Block Party Bonanza program, Philadelphia250 will honor 25 of Philly's hometown heroes: block captains. To recognize their efforts day after day, year after year, to keep their blocks and this City clean and beautiful, Philadelphia250 will be giving away 25 special SUPER Block Parties to the participants of the 2025 Clean Block Contest, a competition that is held annually by the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee (PMBC), a program of the Sanitation Department. 

These 25 blocks will receive, in addition to the standard "Life, Liberty, and Happiness Kits", FREE food and entertainment, all provided by local vendors. Block captains can pick from a menu of special upgrades, such as a DJ, bounce house, face painter, water ice or other kinds of food, carnival games, and more, supplied by local Philly vendors. Philadelphia250 will bring the fun for two hours during the scheduled block party and make sure that these block captains feel the love and gratitude of their city. 

Sponsored by Jefferson, the 25 SUPER Block Parties may also receive special visits from local Philly icons and personalities, and special health resources and giveaways from the Jefferson Community Impact team. 

As part of the Block Party Bonanza program, Philadelphia250 has decided to honor 25 of Philly's hometown heroes: block captains. To recognize their efforts day after day, year after year, to keep their blocks and this City clean and beautiful, Philadelphia250 will be giving away 25 SUPER Block Parties to the blocks that participated in the 2025 Clean Block Contest, held by the Sanitation Department. 

These 25 blocks will received, in addition to the standard "Life, Liberty, and Happiness Kits", FREE food and entertainment, all provided by local vendors. Block captains can pick from a menu of special upgrades, such as a DJ, bounce house, face painter, water ice or other kinds of food trucks, carnival games, and more. Philadelphia250 will bring the fun for two hours during the scheduled block party and make sure that these block captains feel the love and gratitude of their city. 

Presented by Jefferson, the 25 SUPER Block Parties may also receive special visits from local Philly icons and personalities, and special health resources and giveaways from the Jefferson Community Impact team. 

As part of the Block Party Bonanza, Philadelphia250 is hosting free School Block Parties at five Extended Day/Extended Year (EDEY) public schools in June and July 2026, in honor of our partnership with the School District of Philadelphia. In addition to a carnival-themed party featuring food and games, each student will receive a special “Happiness Kit" -- a PHL250 branded backpacked filled with special giveaways such as a refillable water bottle, Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty, a Philly Global Heritage coloring book, a hacky sack, and more.

Presented by Temple University, the School Block Party program will also feature some of Temple's amazing talent, including performances by the Diamond Gems Dance Team and visits from the women's and men's soccer teams. 

The five participating schools are:

• Delaplaine McDaniel School
• Anne Frank Elementary
• Overbrook Educational Center
• Tanner Duckrey School 
• Thomas G. Morton School
  
   

Join the Independence Visitor Center on July 4, 2026 from 12:00 PM - 3 PM for Birthday Party in the USA with ShopRite, celebrating America’s 250th Birthday!

This free family-friendly celebration of the USA’s 250th birthday will feature 5,000 free patriotic cupcakes, historic entertainment, interactive activities, and special appearances by current and former Miss Philadelphia titleholders.

The party kicks off with games and activities at 12:00 PM with the cupcake giveaway starting at 1:30 PM!

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The Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village are beloved Philadelphia holiday traditions that have been enchanting families for generations. From dazzling light displays and soaring holiday music to the timeless scenes of Victorian London in Dickens Village, this free holiday attraction is one of the city’s most magical seasonal experiences.

But while the joy it brings is priceless, the show itself takes significant effort to produce and preserve. That’s why we’re looking for dedicated volunteers to help keep this incredible Philadelphia Christmas tradition alive for years to come.

Why Volunteer?

By joining our team, you’ll play a vital role in welcoming thousands of visitors to the historic Wanamaker Building during the holiday season. Volunteers assist with guest services, wayfinding, and helping manage the flow of visitors—all while soaking in the festive spirit of the season.

Volunteering requires just a four-hour shift, making it a fun and flexible way to give back while being part of the excitement. Whether you’re a student, retiree, or simply someone who loves the holidays, your time and energy will help preserve this one-of-a-kind Philadelphia tradition.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Be part of one of Philadelphia’s most iconic holiday events

• Share in the joy of families experiencing the show for the first time

• Contribute to preserving a cherished holiday tradition

• Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the season while giving back

Sign Up Today!

Help us keep the lights shining and the holiday magic alive. Register your interest using the survey below and let us know your availability for four-hour volunteer shifts.

Looking for a meaningful and fun way to give back to your city? The Philadelphia Visitor Center offers rewarding volunteer opportunities that let you share your love of Philadelphia with millions of visitors each year.

From greeting guests at the Independence Visitor Center, to welcoming travelers at our pop-up visitor centers, to leading tours at historic City Hall, our volunteers are at the heart of creating unforgettable first impressions. Whether you enjoy storytelling, helping people find their way, or simply sharing a smile, there’s a role for you.

Why Volunteer with Us?

• Stay engaged: Volunteering is a wonderful way for Philadelphians to stay active, connected, and involved in the community.

• Meet new people: Connect with visitors from around the world and fellow volunteers who share your passion for Philadelphia.

• Make a difference: Your time directly supports the city’s tourism, cultural institutions, and economic vitality.

• Flexible schedules: We offer a variety of volunteer shifts to fit your lifestyle.

Opportunities Include:

• Greeting and assisting guests at the Independence Visitor Center

• Leading public tours of Philadelphia’s iconic City Hall

• Staffing pop-up visitor centers across the city during special events and festivals

• Providing wayfinding and local tips to travelers

Whether you’re looking to volunteer once a week or just a few times a month, your contribution helps keep Philadelphia one of the most welcoming cities in the nation.

👉 Join us today and be part of the team that greets the world to Philadelphia!

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.