Governor Josh Shapiro and Visit PA launched the Visit PA Playmakers, Pennsylvania’s official 2026 welcome committee that’s ready to meet visitors from around the world at some of the Commonwealth’s biggest moments this year. Pennsylvania is primed to once again be in the national spotlight in 2026 as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia and host major events throughout the Commonwealth.
By leveraging global sporting and cultural moments, including the NFL Draft, the PGA Championship, the FIFA World Cup, America250PA, and the MLB All-Star Game, this people-powered initiative by Visit PA will turn major events into immersive experiences to drive interest in Pennsylvania, encourage visitors to come back for future trips, and spur statewide economic impact.
“The world is coming and Pennsylvania is ready to host the biggest party ever,” said Governor Shapiro. “As we celebrate this country’s 250th anniversary in the birthplace of American democracy, an unprecedented lineup of world-class sporting events will bring millions of visitors and billions of dollars in economic impact to the Commonwealth.”
“Pennsylvania in 2026 means more than sports and history,” said Anne Ryan, Deputy Secretary of Pennsylvania Tourism. “This is a cultural moment where Pennsylvania gets the chance to put our pride and energy on a global stage that may not happen again in our lifetime. At major 2026 moments, the Playmakers will stop you in your tracks, make you feel — and experience — the culture of Pennsylvania, inspire deeper exploration across the Commonwealth, and spark pride in being a part of the moment.”
With Pennsylvania at the epicenter of international attention, including a headliner year for sports, the Visit PA Playmakers will be ready to welcome visitors while bringing energy, excitement, and unforgettable experiences to some of the Commonwealth’s biggest 2026 moments. The rotating group of cultural connectors and fun creators are a people-powered initiative designed to bring Pennsylvania culture, creativity, and community to life during one of the most extraordinary years for Pennsylvania tourism in its history. These real people and recognizable characters will share in their own voices what they love about their communities across Pennsylvania, interacting with fans and visitors throughout this once-in-a-lifetime year.
At major 2026 events, the PA Playmakers will:
- Create surprise crowd moments, like parade-style entrances, drumlines, and pop-up performances.
- Lead special programming, like pep rallies and mascot races.
- Spotlight extraordinary Pennsylvanians and unsung community heroes.
- Serve as live correspondents and content creators, conducting interviews and amplifying Pennsylvania pride in real time.
The program will roll out throughout 2026 in phases, beginning today at its official launch in Philadelphia, and alongside major 2026 event partners, including the City of Philadelphia; America250PA; the Pittsburgh Steelers and Visit Pittsburgh, hosts of the 2026 NFL Draft; 2026 PGA Championship; Philadelphia Soccer 2026, organizers of the FIFA World Cup in Philadelphia; and the Philadelphia Phillies, host of the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.
The program will continue to activate at major 2026 moments, including:
- 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, April 23–25
- 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, PA, May 11–17
- Commonwealth Concert Series across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, various dates May–June
- 2026 FIFA World Cup & Fan Fest in Philadelphia, June 14–July 19
- United States’ 250th Anniversary Celebrations, July 4
- MLB All-Star Week in Philadelphia, July 11–14
For more information about the Visit PA Playmakers program, visit visitpa.com/2026/playmakers.
