Story perspectives

Philadelphia All-Star Week Features 250th, LaBelle, Boyz II Men

7/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

All-Star Week in Philadelphia coincided with 250th anniversary and featured a program on Independence Mall.
Patti LaBelle sang the anthem while Boyz II Men performed after fifth inning for Up to Cancer tribute.
The 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard flew a flyover.
SEPTA gave rides after the sixth inning and ran six Sports Express trains to NRG Station.
The All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center closed Tuesday, ending the zone.

History

Historical Context

The 1976 United States Bicentennial turned Philadelphia into a national showcase, drawing more than 10 million visitors, spending $1.5 billion, and featuring the Philadelphia Orchestra and Air Force Thunderbirds. That model of large-scale patriotism resurfaces in 2026’s All-Star Week, which adds Independence Mall concerts, a New Jersey Air National Guard flyover, and extra SEPTA Sports Express trains, echoing the city’s historic role.

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Story summary

All-Star Week in Philadelphia coincided with 250th anniversary and featured a program on Independence Mall.
Patti LaBelle sang the anthem while Boyz II Men performed after fifth inning for Up to Cancer tribute.
The 177th Fighter Wing of the New Jersey Air National Guard flew a flyover.
SEPTA gave rides after the sixth inning and ran six Sports Express trains to NRG Station.
The All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center closed Tuesday, ending the zone.

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