The City of Philadelphia last week launched Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration — an initiative that will include celebrations in neighborhoods as America marks its 250th anniversary.
“We’re a city of neighborhoods,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker, adding that communities will be participants and co-creators in the 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 city Department of Commerce. The announcement took place at the Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market streets.
The celebration will focus on three ABC pillars: Activations, Beautifications and Celebrations.
Activations will feature a yearlong calendar of cultural festivals, attractions and experiences.
Beautifications will enhance commercial corridors with physical improvements.
Celebrations will put Philadelphia’s stories, voices and culture on display. In partnership with Mural Arts, local artists will design 20 large replica Liberty Bells. The city Office of Clean and Green and the Departments of Streets and Sanitation will provide “Life, Liberty and Happiness” kits to 250 block party applicants filled with 250th-themed swag, decorations, toys, games and healthy living tools and resources.
ShopRite/Wakefern is among the celebration supporters, and the company was represented by executives Bria McMenamin and Sandy Brown.
Others on hand included Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and Philadelphia250; state Rep. Jared Solomon; representatives of the Mayfair Business Improvement District, Tacony Community Development Corporation and Tacony Civic Association; and mascots Phillie Phanatic, Gritty, Swoop, Franklin and Phang.
Register of Wills John Sabatina was in attendance. His office will present Legacy & Wealth: How Inheritance Shaped America as part of the celebration. The office is working to preserve, digitize and make probate and real estate records dating to the 1600s more accessible to the public. The civic project will include a City Hall exhibit, lectures, community workshops and storytelling.
Updates on Philadelphia’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary are available at phila.gov/2026. ••
