Firstival: 52 Weeks of Firsts

Mistakes were made … and fixed! Celebrate the bright idea that stuck, a pencil with its own built-in eraser, invented right here in Philly. It’s the write stuff. For 250 years, Philadelphia has been first — first in freedom, first in innovation and first in fun. In 2026, the city celebrates that legacy with 52 Weeks of Firsts, a yearlong, citywide series of events highlighting the groundbreaking ideas, inventions and milestones that began right here. Produced by the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee, the celebration shines a spotlight on dozens of Philadelphia-born “firsts,” some famous, others surprising even to lifelong Philly fans. To mark the nation’s 250th birthday, the Historic District is hosting a full year of free public events that bring these remarkable moments to life. Learn more by clicking here.