In 2026, the city celebrates that legacy with 52 Weeks of Firsts, a yearlong, citywide series of events highlighting the groundbreaking ideas, inventions and milestones that began right here.
Check out the Firsts that happened in Philadelphia’s national parks.
Saturday, April 25 @ Franklin Court
Before there was email, there was Ben! Franklin became America’s first postmaster, creating a system that did more than deliver mail, it brought people together. See how one man’s mail shaped a new nation.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Franklin Court, 322 Market Street
Saturday, July 4 @ First Bank of the United States
America’s first big investment! Founded by Alexander Hamilton (yes, that Hamilton), the First Bank built the financial foundation of the nation, and it all started right here in Philadelphia.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: First Bank of the United States, 120 S. 3rd Street
Saturday, September 19 @ Independence Hall
What’s in a name? Everything. At Independence Hall, “The United States of America” was spoken into being, giving a brand-new nation its identity. We still say it proudly, but Philadelphia said it first.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street
Saturday, October 31 @ Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
It was a dark and stormy night… an another Philadelphia first! Edgar Allan Poe penned the world’s first modern detective story here, giving birth to mystery, suspense and serious shivers. Case closed.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site, 532 N. 7th Street