PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia officials on Wednesday provided new details about their neighborhood-centric celebration of America’s 250th birthday next year.
Director Michael Newmuis pulled out all the stops — every pro team mascot, local food specialties, and a room full of the city’s movers and shakers at the Independence Visitor Center — all to announce the theme for next year is “Ring It On.”
That’s a reference to the replica Liberty Bells that will be placed in 20 commercial corridors citywide, creating a sort of scavenger hunt to guide tourists to parts of the city beyond the Historic District, stadiums and the Ben Franklin Parkway, where a number of major events will be taking place.
Commerce Director Karen Fegley said the corridors will also get beautification improvements like banners and planters.
“We’re going to use it to uplift small businesses, attract new visitors, and create a ripple effect across every participating community,” she said.
The neighborhood focus, first reported by KYW Newsradio in July, includes new festivals; 250 block parties with DJs, games and swag; and a neighborhood tour series featuring a different community each week.
Mayor Cherelle Parker wants the impact to outlast the year.
“We’re making sure no community is left behind and that every resident and every neighborhood feels seen and valued and a part of this historic celebration,” she said. “The legacy, if we do it right, will extend beyond 2026 through increased visibility, deeper civic pride, and new economic opportunity.
“This is a once-in-a-generation chance to show the world where America started — of course, that place in history is important, it’s a fact — but where we’re going next.”
Find more at phila.gov/2026.