Playbook 2026 | Phila26

2026 offers the ability to increase the visibility & showcase businesses that have contributed to Philadelphia's distinct identity.

Spirit of '26

Philadelphia's neighborhood gateways, iconic eateries, shops, and venues are places loved by both residents and visitors alike. The year 2026 marks a unique opportunity to increase the visibility of these businesses, which have contributed to Philadelphia's distinct identity.

2026 offers a chance to celebrate the spirit of Philadelphia and showcase its local businesses by taking advantage of the global spotlight presented by the U.S. Semiquincentennial celebrations and the FIFA World Cup.

Highlighting these businesses will stimulate economic growth across neighborhood corridors and position Philadelphia as a vibrant and forward-looking city.

By strategically showcasing local businesses, Philadelphia can maximize these significant events' economic and cultural opportunities.

In 2026, Philadelphia can showcase Legacy Business by

A ShopLegacy Month could be a dedicated period during which a community or city celebrates and recognizes long standing local businesses that have played a pivotal role in shaping the area's history, culture, and economy. Throughout this month, the focus would be on honoring businesses with a significant legacy, often characterized by their enduring contributions, longstanding presence, and cultural impact.

Activities during ShopLegacy Month might include special events, historical tours, and promotional campaigns to raise awareness about these businesses, encourage community support, and ensure their continued success. It could also involve storytelling initiatives via social media, where the narratives of these legacy businesses are shared with the community to foster a deeper appreciation for their role in the local identity.

The goal would be to celebrate the resilience, innovation, and lasting impact of these businesses, recognizing them as integral components of the community's heritage.

Partners: Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations, Department of Commerce, City Council of Philadelphia

Cost: Council Resolution (no-cost), Programming (Range from $-$$)

Legacy Business Month, Austin-Texas

Every holiday season Dilworth Park & LOVE Park are transformed into a regional shopping & holiday destination by becoming a “Christmas Village.” Following the partnership program between the Department of Commerce & Department of Parks & Recreation, ShopLegacy Philly at the Christmas Village offers the ability to highlight legacy businesses during the holiday season by providing a space to allow for legacy businesses to vend for the very first time ever, further elevating the LOVE Park Christmas Village experience

The Department of Commerce would sponsor an additional booth (a part of the already sponsored three for Minority & Women-Owned Businesses) and then provide grants for establishments to manage the spaces and bring on and support local businesses.

These vendors, recruited by each organization, are offering crafts globally inspired and locally made at Christmas Village this year until closure. Vendors would rotate on a weekly basis, and should be reflective of businesses that are found outside of Center City, and who if not for the program would not have been able to monetarily participate.

Partners: Department of Commerce, Department of Parks & Recreation

Cost: Programming (Range from $$-$$$)

The Passport '26 initiative supporting legacy small businesses in Philadelphia serves as a dynamic initiative to celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage and stimulate economic vitality. By enticing individuals to explore various neighborhoods and patronize long standing businesses, the passport program fosters a sense of community pride and historical appreciation. Each passport page dedicated to a legacy business provides valuable insights into its history, contributions, and cultural significance, educating participants about the unique tapestry of the city. Incentives such as discounts or exclusive offers further encourage repeat visits, while the program's digital component facilitates online engagement and social media promotion.

This community-led economic development initiative not only boosts the visibility of local businesses but also creates a network for collaboration, ensuring that the benefits of patronage contribute to the preservation of Philadelphia's distinctive identity.

Partners: Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations, Philadelphia BID Alliance, Department of Commerce, Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia

Cost: Programming (Range from $-$$)

Legacy Business Month, Austin-Texas

Spirit of '26

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