City launches the Philadelphia 2026 Business Readiness Playbook to help businesses prepare for large-scale events

Philadelphia will be at the center of national and global attention in 2026 as the birthplace of American democracy and a host city for multiple large-scale, high-profile events.

In addition to America's 250th anniversary and the FIFA World Cup 2026, the city will support a year-long calendar of major cultural, civic, sports, and entertainment events tied to the United States Semiquincentennial, national convenings, international visitors, media presence, and regional tourism. The combined impact is expected to create sustained visitor volume, repeated peak demand periods, and unprecedented visibility for local businesses.

The City of Philadelphia is pleased to provide the Philadelphia 2026 Business Readiness Playbook for small businesses and entrepreneurs with the potential for visitor engagement and increased demand for products and services during the many events happening in Philadelphia during 2026.

Businesses most likely to interact with visitors include but are not limited to:

• Food and beverage
• Hospitality
• Entertainment and nightlife
• Event planners, suppliers, photographers, content creators
• Retail
• Creators and makers
• Tourism and experiences

Overview

The Playbook focuses on operational readiness through access to capital, digital visibility, multilingual service, safety protocols, and day-of execution to ensure businesses across the city can operate consistently and efficiently under the pressure of high-demand events. It provides step-by-step guidance, readiness checklists, self-assessment forms, and decision tools to help businesses identify gaps and prioritize improvements. In this Playbook, businesses will find:

• Timeline and events
• Business preparedness checklists
• Permitting information
• Training and certifications
• Cultural awareness
• Trademarks and tournament
• Security and fraud prevention

Learn more

Explore the business readiness playbook created to help Philadelphia businesses proactively prepare and be effectively positioned to seize opportunities. Business owners remain responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, licensing requirements, and regulatory standards.

Need business support? The Mayor's Business Action Team at the Department of Commerce provides personalized assistance in multiple languages for all aspects of doing business in Philadelphia, including connecting with local neighborhood organizations in your area and accessing resources based on your needs. Businesses can email [email protected] or call 215-683-2100.