Philadelphia is preparing for a yearlong series of events as the city gears up to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Last week, city officials officially launched Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration, an initiative designed to bring together neighborhoods and residents as active participants and co-creators in marking this historic milestone.

Story Highlights:

• Philadelphia launches Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration for America’s 250th anniversary.

• Celebration structured around three pillars: Activations, Beautifications, Celebrations.

• Yearlong cultural festivals, commercial enhancements, and public displays planned.

• Local artists to design 20 large Liberty Bell replicas in partnership with Mural Arts.

• “Life, Liberty and Happiness” kits distributed to 250 block party applicants.

• Legacy & Wealth initiative by Register of Wills to digitize historic records from the 1600s.

Mayor Cherelle Parker, speaking at the Independence Visitor Center at 6th and Market streets, emphasized the city’s community-focused approach. She said,

“We’re a city of neighborhoods, and it’s important that every community can participate in shaping this celebration.”

Parker was joined by Michael Newmuis, the city’s 2026 director; City Council President Kenyatta Johnson; City Representative Jazelle Jones; and Karen Fegely, acting commissioner of the Department of Commerce. The group highlighted the city’s vision to showcase its culture, history, and local stories as part of the Philadelphia 250th anniversary celebration.

The initiative is structured around three key pillars, referred to as ABC:

• Activations: These will include a yearlong calendar of cultural festivals, attractions, and unique experiences designed to engage both residents and visitors.

• Beautifications: The city plans to improve commercial corridors through physical enhancements, adding aesthetic value to Philadelphia neighborhoods.

• Celebrations: A key focus is putting Philadelphia’s voices, stories, and culture on full display. Twenty large Liberty Bell replicas, created by local artists in partnership with Mural Arts, will be installed across the city as a visual symbol of the celebration.

In addition, the city Office of Clean and Green, along with the Departments of Streets and Sanitation, will distribute “Life, Liberty and Happiness” kits to 250 block party applicants. Each kit is designed with a 250th-themed twist and includes decorations, toys, games, and tools to promote healthy living.

Corporate and community involvement has been strong. Executives from ShopRite/Wakefern, Bria McMenamin and Sandy Brown, attended the launch, while other participants included Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, and representatives from the Mayfair Business Improvement District, Tacony Community Development Corporation, and Tacony Civic Association. Even Philadelphia’s beloved mascots—Phillie Phanatic, Gritty, Swoop, Franklin, and Phang—made an appearance to celebrate the occasion.

Register of Wills John Sabatina highlighted a special civic project under the celebration, titled Legacy & Wealth: How Inheritance Shaped America. Sabatina explained,

“Our goal is to preserve, digitize, and make accessible probate and real estate records dating back to the 1600s. These documents hold the stories of our city and its people.”

The project will include exhibits at City Hall, lectures, community workshops, and storytelling sessions, all designed to connect residents with Philadelphia’s rich history.

For residents and visitors eager to join the festivities, updates and detailed schedules for the Philadelphia 250th anniversary celebration are available at phila.gov/2026.

Philadelphia’s 250th anniversary celebration promises a year of community events, cultural showcases, and historic tributes. From Liberty Bells to neighborhood block parties, the city is ready to honor its past while engaging residents and visitors alike. Stay updated at phila.gov/2026 and join the festivities.

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