Gov. Josh Shapiro says Pa. is 'psyched' to take center stage for 250th anniversary celebrations and major sporting events

Alfred Lubrano, The Philadelphia Inquirer on Mar 31, 2026

Published in News & Features

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PHILADELPHIA — Surrounded by red, white, and blue balloons, Gov. Josh Shapiro declared Tuesday that Pennsylvania will soon become the “center of the world’s attention just like we were 250 years ago.”

Beyond celebrations connected to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the state will host the FIFA World Cup, the PGA Championship, Major League Baseball’s All-Star Week, and the 2026 NFL draft.

Except for the draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh, all events will take place in and around Philadelphia during the spring and summer.

“We are ready, we are psyched,” Shapiro said at a pep rally event on Cherry Street Pier on Columbus Boulevard. “We are working to bring the world together at a time when there might be some division out there. So, let’s celebrate our democracy. Let’s enjoy one another, and let’s have a damn good time.”

The Philly Phanatic, Gritty and other local mascots were on hand to kick off the celebration as the theme from Rocky played in the background.

More than 1 million people will be visiting Pennsylvania because of these events, said Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger.

They will augment overall visitor spending in the commonwealth during the year, estimated to reach $55 billion, with a total impact on all businesses expected to be $91 million, he said.

“This is a generational opportunity to elevate Pennsylvania on the global stage,” he added.

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