On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (PVCC) will host its Third Annual Philly Opener presented by Highmark, an award-winning celebration and fundraiser at the Independence Visitor Center (599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106). This highly anticipated event will take place during National Travel and Tourism Week, bringing together industry leaders, community partners, and passionate residents to celebrate tourism season in Philadelphia, when millions of people visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Upon arrival, guests will be invited to celebrate the city, as well as the Commonwealth’s, iconic destinations with experiential activations and photo moments from PVCC and Visit PA. Guests will also enjoy live entertainment from DJ Hollywood, along with remarks from leadership at PVCC, Visit Philadelphia, and select government officials. The culinary experience at the event will showcase world-renowned cheesesteak restaurant Nihonbashi Philly, known for its take on the iconic Philadelphia classic. Based in Tokyo, Japan, the restaurant brings authentic flavors overseas and will offer guests a taste of its signature cheesesteaks.
A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) Award presented by the Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, and Bank of America, celebrating an individual who has made a lasting impact on the city. This year’s honoree, the 48th Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, has demonstrated a strong commitment to communities across the state while helping elevate Pennsylvania’s profile at a pivotal moment, as Philadelphia prepares to welcome the nation and the world for the 2026 Semiquincentennial.
General admission tickets are $150 and can be purchased at www.phillyopener.org.