Over one and a half million convention attendees and international tourists visited Philadelphia last year, resulting in an economic impact of more than $1 billion. This Thanksgiving, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) is recognizing the nearly 80,000 hospitality workers who made it possible.

The PHLCVB’s 2024 Annual Luncheon, on Wednesday, Nov. 27, will celebrate the tourism and hospitality industry’s impressive achievements over the past year.

What is widely considered one of the region’s best hospitality networking events of the year will take place at The Franklin Institute to coincide with its 200th anniversary. The pioneering Philadelphia science museum isn’t just celebrating its bicentennial birthday — days before the Annual Luncheon, the iconic institution is debuting two new exhibitions: Body Odyssey and the Hamilton Collections Gallery. Luncheon attendees will get an early opportunity to explore these new additions, as well as exhibitions throughout the museum.

The Annual Luncheon offers more than a celebration; it’s a prime opportunity to network, share ideas, and collaborate with Philadelphia business professionals.

“For the hospitality and tourism industry, this is the most anticipated social event of the season,” said Gregg Caren, the PHLCVB’s President and CEO. “Throughout the year, we are all so busy in our everyday roles, but this allows us to celebrate together and give thanks to each other for the collaboration and impact we help ignite in our local economy.”

This year, attendees will experience a special welcome presentation, Ignite!

Kicking off at 11 AM, Ignite! will feature special guests and the latest updates from the PHLCVB, setting the stage for the afternoon’s festivities. And to get the celebration started, scientists from The Franklin Institute will “launch” the luncheon with an interactive demonstration, adding extra spark to the event.

Attendees can bid on items donated by local small businesses in a silent auction and enjoy PHLCVB-labeled beer from Yards Brewing Company.

Proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the PHLCVB Foundation, which provides support to Philadelphia’s tourism and hospitality community through education, economic development, and community outreach initiatives. As part of the celebration, the Foundation will also award the Marie Baker Brown Scholarship to a local student pursuing a degree in hospitality, ensuring the next generation of industry leaders is supported and empowered. Marie, a champion of Philadelphia’s tourism community, joined the PHLCVB in 1985 and her production credits include the opening of the Pennsylvania Convention Center in 1993 and hosting the Republican National Convention in 2000.

This year’s scholarship will be awarded to Caleigh Nelson, a junior majoring in Tourism and Hospitality Management at Temple University.

The 2024 Annual Luncheon is open to the public and tickets are on sale through Nov. 24 on the PHLCVB’s website. A special package is available for groups.