Philadelphia, already celebrated as the birthplace of the nation, is now inviting residents and visitors to rediscover its role as a city of firsts. From the first hot air balloon flight to the first selfie, Philadelphia is marking over 250 years of groundbreaking milestones with a year-long celebration titled “52 Weeks of Firsts.”

Every week throughout 2026, a new event will honor a different Philadelphia first, showcasing the city’s influence on American history, culture, and everyday life. Participants can explore interactive storytelling, scavenger hunts, giveaways, and even oversized foam #1 sculptures marking the original sites—or as close as possible—of these historical achievements.

At the announcement event at the Constitution Center, the festive atmosphere included circus performers, Mummers, Once Upon A Nation Storytellers, and Franklin Fountain ice cream sodas. Amy Needle, president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, Inc., highlighted the city’s rich legacy:

“Philadelphia has always been a city of firsts — from the founding of our nation to innovations that shaped everyday life. This is an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to explore these firsts and learn about all the amazing history and innovation that has happened in Philadelphia over the last 250 years.”

The celebrations will span at least 16 neighborhoods across the city, bringing the 250th anniversary closer to local communities. Needle explained that the events were compiled in partnership with 22 museums and cultural institutions, all adhering to a strict definition of “first” from Merriam-Webster: “preceding all others in time, order, or importance.”

“We wanted to make sure that each milestone was recognized accurately and celebrated in a way that engages people directly with our history,” Needle said. “From schools to families, everyone can take part and experience the city in a completely interactive way.”

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• Year-long celebration of Philadelphia’s historical milestones

• Weekly events feature storytelling, scavenger hunts, giveaways, and foam #1 sculptures

• Milestones cover history, science, culture, technology, and food

• Spanning 16 neighborhoods in 2026

• Organized by Historic Philadelphia, Inc. in collaboration with 22 museums and cultural institutions

• Highlights include first hot air balloon flight, first selfie, first American flag, and first electronic computer

Philadelphia Firsts & Key Events 2026

• First Hot Air Balloon Flight in America (1793): The Athenaeum, Jan. 3, 2026

• First Folk Parade (1901): Mummers Museum, Jan. 10, 2026

• First Volunteer Fire Company (1736): Fireman’s Hall Museum, Jan. 17, 2026

• First Professional Basketball League (1898): Location TBD, Jan. 24, 2026

• First Public Girl Scout Cookie Sale (1932): Location TBD, Jan. 31, 2026

• First African Methodist Episcopal Congregation (1794): Mother Bethel AME Church, Feb. 7, 2026

• First Abolitionist Society (1775): African American Museum in Philadelphia, Feb. 14, 2026

• First Authentic Chinese Gate (1984): Chinatown Friendship Gate, Feb. 21, 2026

• First Public Protest Against Slavery (1688): Germantown Mennonite Historic Trust, Feb. 28, 2026

• First Flower Show (1829): Pennsylvania Convention Center, Mar. 7, 2026

• First Women’s Medical College (1850): Drexel University, Mar. 14, 2026

• First Medical School (1765): Perelman School of Medicine, Mar. 28, 2026

• First Circus Performance (1793): Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, Apr. 11, 2026

• First Stadium (1895): Franklin Field, Apr. 18, 2026

• First American Flag (1777): Betsy Ross House, June 6, 2026

• First Selfie (1839): Love Park, Aug. 22, 2026

• First Electronic Computer (1945): University of Pennsylvania, Nov. 28, 2026

• Philly Food Firsts: First Cheesesteak (1930s), Water Ice (1932), Bubble Gum (1928), Reading Terminal Market, Dec. 26, 2026

“Philadelphia has so many things to be excited about,” Needle said. “Every week, we’ll remind everyone why this city has always been at the forefront of innovation and culture. From the very first American flag to modern technology, Philadelphia’s firsts are truly remarkable.”

The 52 Weeks of Firsts offers both residents and tourists a unique opportunity to experience Philadelphia as a city of innovation, history, and culture. Each celebration is designed to be interactive, informative, and a reminder of the city’s pioneering spirit.

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