In spring and summer 2026, a 20-week tour series will celebrate Philadelphia’s diverse neighborhoods, showcasing local culture, restaurants, shops, parks, and historic landmarks.  

Tour guides will collaborate with residents and community historians to co-create each experience, shaping routes, stories, and training  local guides.  

These tours will share the rich Philadelphia neighborhood stories, invite visitors beyond Center City, and support skills development in tourism and hospitality.  

More information and the full schedule to come in spring 2026.  

In 2026, a favorite Philly tradition gets a historic upgrade. Philadelphia250, in partnership with the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives and the Department of Streets, will deliver “Life, Liberty, and Happiness” kits to 250 blocks across the city. Each kit includes themed swags, decorations, games, and gift cards to inspire celebration and neighborhood 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. To register your business for consideration, click here.

Philadelphia250 partnered with America250PA and Mural Arts Philadelphia to create 20 large replica Liberty Bells designed with input from local communities. Each bell celebrates its neighborhood’s unique identity while commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Once completed, the bells will be installed in commercial corridors and public parks, forming a citywide “treasure map” for residents and visitors to explore. 

Philadelphia250, a program of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, is leading the charge to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday — right here in the birthplace of independence! 

Our mission is to ignite the spirit of Philadelphia by uplifting the city’s neighborhoods, cultures, and small businesses, and by giving everyone, from lifelong residents to first-time visitors, fun, meaningful ways to celebrate 2026. 

What are we doing for 2026? 

In support of Mayor Cherelle Parker's vision for a "united city" and a semiquincentennial celebration that reaches all neighborhoods and residents, we’re turning the semiquincentennial into a citywide celebration of unity, pride, and progress. 

Across 20 neighborhoods and commercial corridors, we’re investing in: 

• Local business growth that fuels economic opportunity. 

• Community pride projects that strengthen neighborhood identity. 

• Public space enhancements led by local development organizations who know their communities best. 

This is more than a party. We are working collaboratively with the City of Philadelphia, including the Commerce Department, Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, Parks and Recreation, Department of Streets, and City Council, to build something lasting — for 2026 and beyond. 

Join Us — Ring It On! 

Be part of history in the making. Celebrate our shared story, our united future, and the unstoppable energy of Philadelphia. 

Learn how you can get involved, support your neighborhood, and join the 250th celebrations. 

And nobody represents Philadelphia better than the people who call it home. That's where The Phambassadors come in.

The Visitor Center is building a citywide initiative of Philadelphians—from die-hard sports fans to artists, small business owners, community leaders, and everyday locals—united by one mission: to showcase their favorite Philly experiences with the world.

The Wanamaker Light Show is closed for the season. Thank you to our donors, sponsors, and all visitors for making this holiday season bright!

Since 1956, Philadelphia area families have gathered in Center City to experience the Wanamaker Christmas Light Show and Dickens Village. These holiday experiences bring joy, wonder, and cherished memories to hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. 

The Wanamaker Light Show presented by PECO was shown in the Grand Court of the Wanamaker Building throughout the 2025 holiday season. Select shows featured live performances of the Wanamaker Organ. 

Dickens Village, the immersive walk-through experience inspired by Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” has once again concluded with the opportunity to meet and take photos with Santa Claus.