PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Just two days after the finale of Philadelphia’s Fourth of July celebration, Welcome America announced that its CEO is stepping down.
Michael DelBene took the helm in 2019 and oversaw the expansion of the celebration into a 16-day festival, from Juneteenth through the Fourth of July, with an ever-growing menu of events.
He did not respond to an interview request. No reason was given for his departure.
Del Bene took on an extra job this year running the FIFA World Cup Fan Fest, juggling his Welcome America duties while creating a major new attraction on Lemon Hill, in a year with especially high expectations for the July Fourth celebration. He will remain in charge of the festival for the next two weeks.
Mayor Cherelle Parker stepped in and took a direct role in putting together the grand finale concert and fireworks.
Parker praised DelBene in a statement and noted his “ongoing work” at Fan Fest. He was the longest-serving CEO and the first one to serve more than one mayor.
DelBene is quoted as saying the 2026 festivities were a spectacular accomplishment.
No replacement was named. The announcement said the Board of Directors is working to ensure continuity.
No explanation was given for his departure
No explanation was given for his departure
