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How to Make Your Event More "Philadelphian"

Date October 14, 2024

How to Make Your Event More "Philadelphian"

When you book a meeting in Philadelphia, you want your meeting to feel, well, Philadelphian.

After all, you’re in the birthplace of America– a city where both Benjamin Franklin and Rocky Balboa represent the underdog spirit. Here, fine dining could mean either an elegant eight-course meal or a classic cheesesteak. So, when planning your event in Philadelphia, bring it to life by embracing the city’s unique spirit and local experiences.

Invite the Mummers

The legendary Mummers are colorful costumed performers who march throughout the city every New Year’s Day. You can bring that same energy to your event by booking the South Philadelphia String Band, an award-winning Mummers group. Known for their elaborate, colorful costumes, the band has been a part of Philadelphia’s culture since 1941 and performs each year in the famous Mummers Parade. With their lively music and local flair, this one-of-a-kind band will add a vibrant, uniquely Philadelphia touch to your event.

A group of Mummers walk through the CPHI convention hall at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Add Philly Food Favorites to the Menu

From full meals to fun, festive snacks, Philadelphia food trucks deliver local flavors straight to your event. No visit to Philly is complete without a cheesesteak. Pat’s King of Steaks—one of the city’s two iconic South Philadelphia cheesesteak spots—can offer this famous sandwich right to your guests. With their food truck on site, your guests will enjoy an authentic taste of Philly without leaving the event.

Originally started by two friends in a University of Pennsylvania dorm room, Insomnia Cookies delivers warm, delicious cookies that your guests will love. Whether it’s a sweet treat for an early morning meeting or a late-night snack after an event, the Insomnia Cookies truck serves freshly baked cookies right on the spot.

Touch Gloves with Rocky

Philadelphia isn’t just Rocky Balboa’s home; it’s where legends are made. You can bring that unbeatable Rocky energy straight to your event. Imagine the “Italian Stallion” himself getting your crowd pumped or even leading your team on a run up the iconic Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Whether it’s for a photo op or a motivational moment, a Rocky impersonator will have your guests feeling like champions ready to take on anything.

A group of meeting attendees post with a Rocky Balboa impersonator at the NAA Apartmentalize Event at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Made in Philadelphia Souvenirs

Send your guests home with a piece of Philadelphia by giving them a memorable, locally-made souvenir. Philadelphia Independents offers gifts from over 50 local makers, including apparel, stickers, and artwork—many of which can be customized for your event. At Paper on Pine, you can find candles, stationery, and Philadelphia-themed items that make the perfect takeaway for your attendees.

For a sweet touch, consider Lore’s Chocolates, offering handmade and custom chocolates that make a perfect gift or favor for your guests. Xenos Candy & Gifts provides Philadelphia-themed souvenirs, along with customized and engraved keepsakes. And to top it off, Mural City Cellars lets you add a personal touch to your event with custom wine labels, making every bottle a memorable parting gift.

Contact our team to start planning your next event in Philadelphia, and let them introduce you to some amazing local vendors that capture the spirit of the city!