Shapiro Administration Highlights How International Sports and Culture Events Help Attract Visitors and Businesses to Pennsylvania
Yesterday, the Philadelphia Eagles played in the first of three NFL games planned in London, England during the 2026 season ― further shining a spotlight on the Commonwealth’s robust sports tourism and business growth.
Visit PA also hosted a conversation in London with Eagles President Don Smolenski and Pennsylvania business and tourism leaders on how sports and culture drive tourism and business interest in Pennsylvania.
Tourism and economic development are both key components of Governor Josh Shapiro’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy for Pennsylvania.
Harrisburg, PA – This weekend during the Philadelphia Eagles game in London, England, the Shapiro Administration highlighted how Pennsylvania sports and culture drive tourism and business interest to the Commonwealth. The collaboration with Visit PA and the Philadelphia Eagles encourages both national and international audiences to experience all that Pennsylvania, The Great American Getaway has to offer beyond Philadelphia and the stadium.
The Eagles played the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first of three London games planned by the NFL during the 2026 season. In preparation for the game, Visit PA leveraged the opportunity to help international audiences experience Pennsylvania in their own backyard through an Eagles cheesesteak double-decker bus, fan rallies, interactions with Eagles cheerleaders, and more.
Visit PA also hosted a conversation with Eagles President Don Smolenski and Pennsylvania business and tourism leaders. Together they explored how Pennsylvania’s culture travels, what it means to people who choose the Eagles from thousands of miles away, and what happens when someone comes to visit, work, or build a business in the Commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania’s culture is shaped by its people and communities, and nowhere is that more apparent than in our sports allegiances,” said Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary for Tourism Anne Ryan. “Our sports fans are some of the most dedicated and passionate in the world, and the Eagles playing in London brings that culture to a global stage. Under Governor Josh Shapiro’s leadership, Pennsylvania has developed strong ties with the NFL, and this Eagles game — along with the Pittsburgh Steelers game planned for Paris, France, later this month — are helping turn game-day excitement into destination inspiration.”
Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has increased funding for tourism and 2026 marquee event support. Tourism and economic development are both important parts of Governor Shapiro’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy.
Between January and July 2026, the total international arrivals to Pennsylvania climbed 10.4 percent and United Kingdom visitor arrivals increased 11.5 percent, demonstrating how sports, culture, and authenticity are helping to bring more visitors and businesses to Pennsylvania.
The Commonwealth experienced a historic, landmark year for tourism in 2026 with events centered around America250, as well as many major sports-focused events like the FIFA World Cup, NFL Draft, and PGA Championship — all of which drew people from around the world to the Commonwealth.
Importance of Pennsylvania Tourism
Pennsylvania is open for business and visitors. The Shapiro Administration continues to uplift Pennsylvania’s tourism industry and invite people from across the globe to experience everything the Commonwealth has to offer. The 2026-27 bipartisan budget signed by Governor Shapiro included $19.5 million in Marketing to Attract Tourists funding to increase awareness and invite visitors to the thousands of quintessential getaway experiences throughout the Commonwealth.
As the birthplace of American democracy, Pennsylvania has been in the spotlight this year with important events throughout the Commonwealth. From the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia to major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup™, NFL Draft, MLB All-Star Game, and more, these experiences have been huge tourism and economic development opportunities for the Commonwealth as millions of people visited — and continue visiting ― Pennsylvania.
About Visit PA
Visit PA, the official tourism office of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and part of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, promotes travel to Pennsylvania’s 67 counties and showcases the experiences that make the Commonwealth The Great American Getaway. From vibrant cities and historic landmarks to outdoor adventure, arts and culture, culinary experiences and small-town charm, Pennsylvania offers authentic experiences for every traveler. Learn more at visitpa.com.
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