In 2026, the birthplace of America turns 250, and the city is preparing to mark the milestone with a year-long program of history, sport, culture, and cuisine that will put it firmly in the global spotlight. From once-in-a-generation events to neighbourhood celebrations, Philadelphia is teeing itself up as one of the East Coast’s headline acts for the year.
“We are going to be playing the world’s game on America’s birthday in the birthplace of America,” Gregg Caren, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau told Karryon.
On 4 July 2026, Philadelphia will host a FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match, one of only two FIFA games in the US that day.
“The symbolism of that is incredible, and the opportunity for visitors is unmatched,” Caren said.
Six FIFA matches will be played in the city, alongside PGA Championship golf, Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game, and March Madness basketball finals.
Walking through history
“When you are walking the streets of Philadelphia, you are walking the same streets as the Founding Fathers,” Caren said.
Old City’s historic square mile holds Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Ben Franklin’s original post office, where visitors can send a postcard stamped with his signature. These landmarks connect visitors to pivotal moments in world history, not only American history, and offer a rare chance to stand in the very rooms where ideas that shaped modern democracies were debated and signed.
“You can experience these places in a single day because our city is truly walkable,” Caren told Karryon.
Neighbourhoods are central to the experience, each with its own character shaped by deep history and local culture. “We truly are a city of neighbourhoods, and each one has its own story,” Caren said.
In Philadelphia, that can mean exploring the mural-covered streets that have made it the Mural Capital of the World, finding one of the hidden speakeasies tucked into historic rowhouses, tasting soft pretzels straight from a corner bakery that has served the same block for a century, or catching an open-air concert in a public square where protests and parades have taken place for generations.
From the green heart of Rittenhouse Square to the rainbow crosswalks of the Gayborhood, the spice-laden markets of Chinatown to the working piers and tall ships along Penn’s Landing, each district offers something you cannot replicate anywhere else.
Food for every taste
Philadelphia’s first Michelin Guide launches in 2026, adding new recognition to a food culture already layered with variety.
“Our culinary scene is diverse, creative, and accessible,” Caren said. The city still embraces its icons like the Philly cheesesteak and soft pretzel, but also serves modern twists and global influences at every turn.
Reading Terminal Market’s 80-plus stalls include long-running family businesses and flavours from around the world, from Amish baked goods to Middle Eastern mezze. An Aussie-Korean chef is winning fans with kimchi-laced tacos, while other chefs are pushing boundaries with plant-based fine dining, seasonal tasting menus, and unexpected mashups.
“Lower start-up costs mean we can attract culinary talent that might be priced out elsewhere, and that gives visitors a constantly evolving food scene,” Caren added.
Location and value
“We are right between New York City and Washington, DC, on Amtrak’s high-speed Northeast Corridor,” Caren explained. “That gives travellers an easy, scenic rail link to both cities without the hassle of flying again.”
He added that visitors can base themselves in Philadelphia, make day trips, and enjoy lower costs on hotels, dining, and attractions. During peak events, hotel rates in Philadelphia can be 25–50% lower than in New York.
“Those savings can make a big difference, especially for longer stays or group travel,” Caren said.
The airport is only 20 minutes from the city centre by train, a ride that delivers passengers into the heart of the action. “You can be standing in LOVE Park for a photo before you’ve even dropped your bags,” Caren said.
And beyond the city limits, the ‘Countryside of Philadelphia’ offers world-class gardens at Longwood, the Revolutionary War history of Valley Forge, and major equestrian events, all easy day trips that add variety to any East Coast itinerary.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary is a ready-made selling point for East Coast itineraries. Its calendar of global sport and cultural milestones, combined with pricing advantages and location, gives agents a compelling pitch for 2026.
READ MORE FROM EAST COAST USA:
Destination DC – Our exclusive interview with Elliott Ferguson, President & CEO of Destination DC, reveals the real DC—culture, food, inclusivity & beyond the monuments. Read more here.
Meet Boston – In our interview with Martha Sheridan, CEO of Meet Boston, discover how Boston will celebrate America’s 250th with FIFA, tall ships & culture. Read here.
This article is brought to you by Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and Brand USA:
