As a national destination for America’s 250, Philadelphia invites groups to the “party of the Semiquincentennial,” with festivities and events that commemorate our nation’s independence in the city that started it all. Destinations recently caught up with the team at the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and asked them what groups should know about visiting Philadelphia in 2026.
For motorcoaches bringing groups to Philadelphia for 2026 events, there are designated bus parking facilities throughout the city, including the Independence Transportation Center next to the National Constitution Center. Visit discoverphl.com/travel-trade/group-tours/bus-parking for all parking regulations. Photo Credit: PHLCVB.
Destinations: What is America’s Semiquincentennial?
PHLCVB: The Semiquincentennial is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which happened right here in Philadelphia at Independence Hall. In 1776, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and delegates from the Thirteen Colonies signed the document, proclaiming their separation from British Colonial rule. The signing is referred to as the birth of the United States and is celebrated in America each year on the Fourth of July.
D: Why should groups head to Philadelphia to celebrate the 250th?
PHL: As America’s birthplace, Philadelphia will be the centerpiece of this monumental birthday celebration. Philadelphia will amplify and expand its already electrifying series of summer celebrations for the Semiquincentennial. The annual Wawa Welcome America festival—the largest July 4th celebration in America—will return, hosting citywide programming from Juneteenth (June 19) through the Fourth of July. The Philadelphia Historic District hosted the first annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do on July 2, 2024, and the event promises to grow each year into 2026. Inspired by John Adams’s call for a day of “pomp and parade,” the Red, White, & Blue To-Do invites visitors to America’s most historic square mile for two days of festivities, including parades, concerts, and extended visitation hours at historic attractions.
D: What’s new at some of Philadelphia’s historic attractions?
PHL: With historic landmarks, such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia is a captivating backdrop to commemorate America’s birthday. In 2026, the city will welcome several new museums and exhibitions. The First Bank of the United States will transform into a museum of the American economy. Slated to open in time for 2026, the new museum will showcase the founding of the American economy through five exhibits: land, money, slavery, trade, and work. In addition, the Please Touch Museum—originally built for America’s 1876 Centennial Exposition but today serves as a children’s museum—will debut a new exhibit entitled “Discovering Democracy,” and The Franklin Institute will debut the world premiere of a first-of-its-kind exhibit about the science behind theme parks in partnership with Universal Destinations & Experiences.
D: Where will student groups find opportunities and inspiration when they visit in 2026?
PHL: Philadelphia’s local institutions are planning to reinvigorate the spirit of the centennial’s 1876 World’s Fair with the Children’s World’s Fair. Scheduled from early May to mid-July 2026 in Fairmount Park, the fair aims to engage children through diverse programming. The Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia Zoo, and the Mann Center for the Performing Arts will collaborate on programming around the arts, science, health, cuisine, and citizenship.
But the action doesn’t stop there. In 2026, Philadelphia will take center stage for some of the world’s greatest sporting events that both student and adult groups will enjoy.
D: When are the events planned for sports enthusiasts throughout 2026?
PHL: Philadelphia has been chosen as one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the biggest sporting event in the world, and will hold six matches at Lincoln Financial Field from June 14 through June 27, including one round of 16 match on July 4th. Philadelphia will also host the 2026 MLB All-Star Game in the summer at Citizens Bank Park. March Madness will return to Philadelphia when the Wells Fargo Center hosts the NCAA Men’s Basketball select first and second-round games. And just outside of Philadelphia, Aronimink Golf Club will host the 2026 PGA Championship in May.
D: Where can groups learn more about America’s 250th Anniversary in Philadelphia?
PHL: For more information about bringing your group to Philadelphia, visit discoverphl.com/travel-trade/group-tours. For help planning your 2026 tour, visit discoverphl.com/blog-post/philadelphia-2026/ – celebrating-250-years-philly-style or call (215) 636-3300.
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau | discoverphl.com, (215) 636-3300
