Momentum for ’26 Builds at the PHLCVB Annual Luncheon
President and CEO Gregg Caren welcomes guests to the Annual Luncheon
More than 900 members of Philadelphia’s hospitality, tourism, business, and civic community gathered for an energizing afternoon that truly reflected this year’s theme: United for ’26. The excitement in the room showcased just how strong Philadelphia’s momentum is as we head toward this historic year.
Throughout the program, leaders highlighted the major accomplishments of the PHLCVB and the PHLCVB Foundation, underscoring the collaborative spirit that continues to elevate our city.
Each year, the Foundation also honors an outstanding local hospitality student with the Marie Baker Brown Scholarship. This year’s recipient was Shrita Brown, a senior at Temple University. Shrita serves as president of the Temple chapter of the National Society for Minorities in Hospitality, director of membership for Eta Sigma Delta, and a visitor experience associate with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation — all while running her own travel agency.
Recognized as part of Philadelphia’s next generation of hospitality leaders, Shrita was celebrated for her dedication to equity, innovation, and sustainable travel.
Alexandra and her wife, the legendary comedian Wanda Sykes, live in the Philadelphia area and have become powerful advocates for elevating women’s sports. In 2019, they founded The Philadelphia Sisters, a “proof-of-concept for how cities can transform their women’s sports presence from the ground up.”
Their work quickly drew the support of investors and City officials, including Mayor Cherelle Parker. Last January, when Parker joined 76ers owners Josh Harris and Mark Adelman, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to announce that Philly will finally host a WNBA team in 2030, Alex and Wanda stood beside the podium, a testament to their impact. And they haven’t slowed down.
The couple continues to champion women’s sports in Philadelphia, including helping secure a 2026 tour stop for Unrivaled, the professional women’s 3-on-3 league, marking Philly as its first-ever out-of-town destination. Nearly sold out, there are a few suites and seats left. Send them an email to inquire: info@thephillysisters.com
A standout moment in the run-up to the semiquincentennial: the Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee has unveiled 52 Weeks of Firsts – a yearlong series rolling out a brand-new experience every single week of 2026, touching more than a dozen neighborhoods across Philly.
The Philadelphia Historic District Partners are also launching a new Instagram handle, @52WeeksPhilly, which will serve as the go-to spot for up-to-date schedules and weekly highlights throughout the year. Visit Philadelphia has pulled everything together in one comprehensive hub, offering a full calendar and descriptions of all the events including the complete lineup at visitphilly.com/52firsts
One of the city’s most anticipated celebrations coming up, and I agree, Zach Wilcha, Independence Business Alliance is the IBA Holiday Party, returns on December 16, 2025, and this year’s festivities will light up The Downtown Club by Cescaphe. Dress fabulous for the camera. INFO Here
Always working hard and promoting others, Scott Mirkin announced on his Instgram today: ESM Productions has launched the 2026 Philadelphia Event Vendor Directory, an open-source resource created to spotlight Philadelphia-area businesses as the city gears up for America’s 250th Anniversary.
If you work in the event services industry — from AV and technical production to transportation, design, hospitality, catering, security, fabrication, and beyond — this directory is a prime opportunity to get your business in front of planners preparing for a historic year across the Greater Philadelphia region. Join the list and expand your reach for 2026.
OK busy night. I look forward to seeing some of you at the Pepper pot Awards, then the City’s Tree Lighting and the night is still young….
Socially Yours, xoxo HughE