Philadelphia’s Historic District Celebrates Reopening of Independence Hall with Treats, Giveaways, and Specials All Weekend
Published on January 27, 2026
One of Philly’s most iconic landmark is officially back—and the city is celebrating in a big, patriotic way. From Thursday, January 29 through Sunday, February 1, Philadelphia’s Historic District will mark the long-awaited reopening of Independence Hall with a weekend packed full of treats, giveaways, photo ops, and district-wide celebrations, all while kicking off America’s 250th anniversary year at the very site where the nation was born.
At the heart of the festivities is the Independence Visitor Center, which will serve as the welcome hub for visitors returning to Independence National Historical Park. Throughout the weekend, guests exploring Independence Hall can stop by the Visitor Center to enjoy special activations designed to celebrate history, community, and the revolutionary spirit that defines Philadelphia.
To commemorate the reopening, the Independence Visitor Center will transform its Visitor Desk into a patriotic pop-up experience. The first 250 guests who present an Independence Hall ticket or ticket stub will receive a custom-baked Independence Hall cookie, created exclusively for the occasion. Visitors can also step into history by signing the oversized “Declaration Philly 2026” scroll—complete with a six-foot-by-nine-foot parchment and a dramatic quill pen—channeling the Founding Fathers in a fun, interactive way.
The celebration doesn’t stop there. Throughout the weekend, guests can snap photos with Independence Hall-themed balloon installations, props, and character cut-outs featuring revolutionary figures, courtesy of the Independence Historical Trust. Free patriotic swag will also be available at the Information Desk, including 2026 commemorative stickers, collectible coin boards from the United States Mint highlighting special 250th anniversary circulating coins, and other themed giveaways to help visitors remember their trip.
“Reopening Independence Hall is a powerful moment for Philadelphia and the nation,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center and Philadelphia250. “As we begin celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, there’s no better place to start than right here, welcoming visitors back to the site where democracy took shape.”
In addition to Visitor Center activations, museums, attractions, and Old City businesses across the Historic District will offer special discounts and promotions throughout the weekend, inviting both locals and tourists to explore the nation’s most historic square mile.
The Independence Hall reopening celebration runs Thursday, January 29 through Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Independence Visitor Center, located at 599 Market Street. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Philadelphian, the weekend offers a timely reminder of the city’s role in shaping the nation—and a festive way to begin America’s 250th year.