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Did you know the Slinky was invented in Philadelphia?
And that the country’s first Thanksgiving Day parade also took place in the City of Brotherly Love?
Not only was Philadelphia the birthplace of the country, but it was also the backdrop for many other marvels — some you may even be surprised to learn.
To honor these groundbreaking innovations, the Philadelphia Historic District is holding a year’s worth of free events — entitled 52 Weeks of Firsts — to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.
The programming shines a light on different Philly-born “firsts” each week, featuring special guest speakers, free giveaways, historical tales told by professional storytellers, scavenger hunts and monthly main events.
The public events take place throughout 2026 either at the original location of each “first” or in spaces that represent where these significant milestones occurred.
Every week, from January through December 2026, visitors and locals can learn about different “firsts” that had their roots in Philadelphia — and the individuals who created them.
52 Weeks of Firsts celebrates these achievements with weeks dedicated to many of Philly most pioneering creations, from inventions like the ice cream soda (1874) and services like America’s first children’s hospital (1855), to national holidays like Mother’s Day (1908) and cultural milestones like the first African Methodist Episcopal church (1794).
The Betsy Ross House — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Other Philadelphia firsts slated for celebration in 2026 include the first flower show (1827), the first zoo (1874), the first Mummers Parade (1901), the first American flag (1777), the first signing of the United States Constitution (1787) and the first penitentiary (1829).
These weekly events are held at various locations throughout the city that represent each “first” and feature speakers, giveaways, a prominent “#1” sculpture and a Once Upon A Nation story that delves into the history of each innovation — offered live and completely free. Plus, each month features a signature marquee event that explores one major first.
The Once Upon a Nation bench outside Carpenters' Hall — Photo by J.Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Speaking of the “#1” sculptures: Think you can find them all? Don’t miss the city-wide scavenger hunt, where you’ll also learn a bit more about Philly’s innovative past in the process.
Stay tuned for more information about 52 Weeks of Firsts! Want to submit your own Philadelphia “first” for consideration? Submit your suggestion to [email protected].
The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
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