2026 Philly Opener presented by Highmark

Please join the Philadelphia Visitor Center for the 2026 Philly Opener presented by Highmark. Our Third Annual fundraiser takes place on Tuesday, May 5, during National Travel and Tourism Week, and kicks off tourism season in Philadelphia. Count on a pep rally atmosphere with festive food, Philly-centric libations, and live entertainment.

We invite you to join us in honoring Governor Josh Shapiro as our Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) honoree, presented by the Philadelphia Flyers, Bank of America, and the Philadelphia 76ers. Each year, this award goes to an individual who has raised Philly’s global profile and exemplifies all that is good about our beloved city.

A proud Philadelphia region native, Governor Josh Shapiro has been a true champion of Philadelphia’s tourism and hospitality community. Through his investments in Visit PA, he has made tourism a key part of Pennsylvania’s economic development strategy since taking office, focusing on promoting the state’s natural, historical, and cultural assets while investing in infrastructure and marketing to attract more visitors to the Commonwealth.

This annual fundraiser is a don't miss event, kicking off tourism season for anyone passionate about the City of Brotherly Love.

Celebrate with us on May 5!

2026 Philly Opener Co-Chairs

• Daniel J. Hilferty, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Comcast Spectacor
• James F. Dever Jr., Greater Philadelphia President, Bank of America
• David Adelman, Partner, Philadelphia 76ers/HBSE; CEO, Campus Apartments; Co-Founder, Future Standard

Sponsorship opportunities still available!

Contact Colleen Murphy at [email protected].

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Host or Publisher Philadelphia Visitor Center