City of Philadelphia Invests Millions for 2026
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and Philadelphia City Council passed legislation committing millions of dollars to fund the city’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Of that, $3 million is for Visit Philadelphia to bolster 2026 marketing efforts and initiate a campaign, which will start this summer.
One more thing:
Gov. Josh Shapiro proposed $64 million in the state budget for 2026-related activities across Pennsylvania. The budget is expected later this year.
Key players:
Congrats to Kathryn Ott Lovell, the newly appointed head of Philadelphia 250. Kathryn is now leading both Philadelphia250 and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. This strategic alliance will improve collaboration among planners and city officials and make better use of resources and staff.
Michael Newmuis, the 2026 Director for the City of Philadelphia, coordinates all major events related to 2026 for the city.
Roland Bui, Project Manager for 2026 Initiatives at Visit Philadelphia.
Jennifer Nagle, Vice President of Special Projects, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), is spearheading the PHLCVB’s initiatives related to citywide conventions, sporting events, and international tourism in the lead up and throughout 2026.
Meg Kane, Host City Executive for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, is leading all efforts to ensure Philadelphia successfully hosts the six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches.
Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA, is coordinating the commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, focusing on Pennsylvania’s significant contributions and impact on the nation.
Key Organizations:
Federal: America250 is a nonprofit organization that is supporting the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission.
State: America250PA is tasked with planning and coordinating the celebrations by highlighting Pennsylvania’s key role and its people’s impact on the nation’s history and future.
Local:
Philadelphia250 is an independent nonprofit that’s all about making 2026 a big, inclusive celebration for everyone in Philadelphia.
Coalition 2026 is a collaborative body comprising 10 tourism organizations in the city, ensuring all members are updated on major activities. It is co-chaired by Visit Philly, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), and the Philadelphia Convention Center.
Introducing Philly2026.com
A new, user-friendly 2026 landing page is live! Philly2026.com is your ultimate guide to all major events happening next year, complete with detailed event pages, self-guided tours, and more.
To submit an event for consideration, bookmark Visit Philly’s content submission form.