The Scope
This year, America will be celebrating its 250th birthday. As the birthplace of the country, Philadelphia is hosting a year-long celebration called "52 Weeks of Firsts," which will feature all of the firsts that happened in Philadelphia. Happening every Saturday throughout 2026, each two-hour event kicks off at 11:00 a.m. As an added bonus, historical experts will also be releasing a podcast about each week.
The series of events truly has something for everyone. From the first flower show to the first women’s medical college (which so happens to be Drexel University), they truly have something for everyone and it's a great way to get out to explore the city.
Firstival: First Girl Scout Cookie Sale
Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Thin Mints, Trefoils, history! Philadelphia was the site of the very first public Girl Scout cookie sale featuring commercially baked cookies, launching a sweet tradition that still supports girls nationwide. Once again, Philly took the first bite.
Firstival: First African Methodist Episcopal Congregation
Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Stand on sacred ground where history was made. Founded by Richard Allen in 1794, Mother Bethel is the first autonomous, organized and incorporated African American congregation in America, an enduring symbol of faith, resilience, and self-determination.
Firstival: First Flower Show
Saturday, March 7, 2026, | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Breathe in the blooms at the world’s very first flower show, right here in Philadelphia! What began as a gathering of green thumbs blossomed into a global tradition of horticultural wow. Stop and smell the history!
If you have some extra time on the weekends and want to explore the city, be sure to check out all that Visit Philadelphia has to offer. Their website has amazing recommendations for food, places to stay, and both free and ticketed events throughout the city. As college students, it is important that we prioritize ourselves and make space for self-care in our routines.
