What
NOW:
2026

Our inaugural, city-wide and multi-disciplinary arts festival.

COMING May 29th - July 4th, 2026...

A lot has changed since 1776, so we’re asking artists from the city where it all started, What Now? Just in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

REFRAMING PERSPECTIVES

What Now: 2026 represents a major collaborative moment in
Philadelphia and the surrounding region.

Through What Now: 2026's widespread programming, creators’ voices will be foregrounded, placing artists, neighborhoods and arts organizations at the center of critical civic dialogue on the country’s past, present, and– most importantly– our future. Our collaborators include WXPN, WRTI, The Museum of the American Revolution, The Mann Center, Anna Deavere Smith, PHILADANCO!, BalletX, First Person Arts, and MuralArts.

History and art are integral to Philadelphia’s identity. What Now weaves these legacies together by commissioning artists to interpret the complexities of this anniversary.