After months of anticipation, Philadelphia was announced Feb. 12 as the host city for the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz named Philadelphia as the location, citing the city’s historic setting as a perfect place to hold the 2016 convention.
The Democratic National Convention was last held in Philadelphia in 1948 with the Republican National Convention also choosing the city in 2000. The 2016 Democratic National Convention will generate between $170 and $250 million in economic impact for the city.
“I am thrilled to announce that Philadelphia will host the convention where we will nominate the 45th President of the United States,” Wasserman Schultz said. “In addition to their commitment to a seamless and safe convention, Philadelphia’s deep rooted place in American history provides a perfect setting for this special gathering. I cannot wait to join Democrats across the country to celebrate our shared values, lay out a Democratic vision for the future, and support our nominee.”
As part of the Philadelphia host committee, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) worked with the City of Philadelphia, the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association, Visit Philadelphia, the Independence Visitor Center, other members of the local hospitality community, as well as business leaders and elected officials, to highlight the city’s dynamic attractions.
Pennsylvania Convention Center and PHLCVB leaders expressed enthusiasm with the selection.
“We are honored to be chosen as the host city for the 2016 Democratic National Convention. Our selection validates what meeting planners across the country know – that Philadelphia is a world-class city ready for the world’s top meetings and conventions,” said Julie Coker Graham, Executive Vice President, PHLCVB. “From the city’s walkability and vibrancy, to the comprehensive hotel package and ease of accessibility, we demonstrated why Philadelphia is the ideal location for this important convention throughout the DNC bid process. The delegate experience that we promote to our clients every day is one of our strongest assets and we are delighted that such a prominent group has chosen to come here.”
“This is a great day for Philadelphia and our region,” said Josh Shapiro, vice chair of the board of directors, Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority. “Hosting the DNC is a unique opportunity to showcase our region’s history, arts and culture, and world-class hotels, restaurants, and citizens. Philadelphia’s selection underscores the importance of investing in our infrastructure – such as the Pennsylvania Convention Center – to put us in the best position to compete for major national events. This is not just an event for Democrats, this is an opportunity for all residents and businesses in the Philadelphia area. This victory was the result of a great team effort and many of our region’s leaders and stakeholders played an important role in putting together a viable bid and our selection.”
The DNC made its selection following two trips to Philadelphia where they visited the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the Wells Fargo Center, which will host the official DNC events.
Selected from a field of five cities, Philadelphia won over finalists Columbus, Ohio, and Brooklyn, New York. The original field included Birmingham, Ala., and Phoenix, Ariz.
