Philadelphia is getting a real-life treasure hunt this summer as the city prepares to welcome fans of the ‘National Treasure’ franchise for a three-day celebration filled with puzzles, tours, live programming and outdoor movies.

The Philadelphia Visitor Center and Independence Historical Trust recently announced details for National Treasure Weekend, taking place Aug. 20 to 22.

The three-day event, in partnership with National Treasure Hunt — the award-winning podcast that deep dives into the ‘National Treasure’ films and television series — honors the beloved franchises while showcasing Philadelphia’s real-life national treasures. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Independence Historical Trust and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation to welcome our friend, ‘National Treasure’ director and producer Jon Turteltaub, to Philadelphia’s National Treasure Weekend,” said Aubrey Paris and Emily Black, creators and hosts of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, books, and tours. “Not only will Jon reveal behind-the-scenes filming secrets during our one-night-only live recording of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, but he’ll also get to see firsthand Philadelphia’s longstanding enthusiasm for his movies.” 

Fans can expect a weekend filled with exclusive appearances by Turteltaub, interactive puzzle adventures, live programming with the National Treasure Hunt podcast, guided tours, and outdoor movie screenings on Independence Mall with Movies on the Mall.

“Movies on the Mall is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to connect with history in a fun and engaging way. Beyond exhibits and tours, cinema lets us step into different historical moments and truly feel their impact,” said Tom Caramanico, Executive Director of Independence Historical Trust.

The celebration kicks off Thursday, Aug. 20 with National Treasure Hunt’s Heist Night at Carpenters’ Hall.

Beginning at 6 p.m., participants will work together in an immersive, competitive adventure led by Paris and Black. Teams will follow clues and tackle written and escape room-style puzzles as they race to uncover a missing piece in a decades-long treasure hunt.

The event is recommended for those 18 and older, and registration is required.

The action continues Friday, Aug. 21, with Historic District activations beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Independence Mall. Visitors can take part in games and activities hosted by Historic District partners before heading to the Liberty View at Independence Visitor Center for a special live recording of the National Treasure Hunt podcast at 6 p.m. Registration is required.

Then, at 8 p.m., the Historic District will become an open-air movie theater when Movies on the Mall presents the 2004 “National Treasure.”

Turteltaub will introduce the film, and free popcorn will be provided by Liberty Garden.

Saturday, Aug. 22, offers another full day of National Treasure-themed activities.

At 10 a.m., fans can join the National Treasure Hunt Tour: Philadelphia, which explores the real stories behind landmarks featured in and connected to the first ‘National Treasure’ film. Registration is required.

Heist Night returns at 5 p.m. at Carpenters’ Hall, giving fans another opportunity to test their puzzle-solving skills. Historic District activations will also return at 5:30 p.m.         

The weekend wraps up under the stars with an 8 p.m. screening of ‘National Treasure: Book of Secrets,’ the 2007 sequel. Turteltaub will introduce the film, with free popcorn again provided by Liberty Garden.

For Caramanico, the weekend offers more than an opportunity to revisit a pair of popular Hollywood films.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with our partners to offer these free movie experiences in Philadelphia’s National Park,” Caramanico said. “It’s wonderful for the community to come together and enjoy our shared history, especially with such an iconic film like ‘National Treasure.'”

Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, said the event is designed to bring together both longtime Philadelphians and visitors experiencing the city for the first time.

“As we celebrate Philadelphia’s National Treasure Weekend, we want every visitor exploring our Historic District to feel part of this unique Philly experience,” said Ott Lovell. “This weekend offers the perfect opportunity for everyone — whether you are a lifelong resident or a traveler discovering Philadelphia for the first time — to gather under the stars and enjoy our city’s vibrant spirit.”

For film screenings, the screens will be located outside the Independence Visitor Center, at 599 Market Street. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs, and advance registration is encouraged. For more information, visit phlvisitorcenter.com/national-treasure-weekend

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Keywords

National Treasure Weekend,

Philly,

Philadelphia Visitor Center,

Jon Turteltaub,

Movies on the Mall