Philadelphia, known for its vibrant sporting culture, is gearing up to host a thrilling lineup of events in 2024. From WrestleMania 40 to championship matches and tournaments, sports fans from around the world will have their eyes on the city as it showcases its passion for sports.
Kicking off the action-packed year is WrestleMania 40, a week-long celebration of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The event will culminate in a main event at Lincoln Financial Field, with Philadelphia also hosting six major events across three venues, including the WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony and Friday Night SmackDown.
In April, Philadelphia will also host the Northeast Qualifier (NEQ) for girls’ junior volleyball. This annual qualifying event, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, sees teams from over 25 states and Puerto Rico competing for bids to USA Volleyball’s Girls Junior National Championships.
Track and field enthusiasts won’t want to miss the iconic Penn Relays, the oldest and largest competition of its kind in the United States. Celebrating its 126th year, the event will attract more athletes than any other track meet worldwide. Held at Franklin Field, the oldest college football stadium in the country, this event promises to showcase the best in the sport.
On April 28, Philadelphia will close its center throughway, Broad Street, for the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run. With over 35,000 participants, this 10-mile race marks the official start of the city’s running season and is known for its fast course.
Cricket fans will also have a reason to cheer as the Philadelphia International Cricket Festival takes place from May 2-5. With 18 teams representing 16 nations, this four-day event promises a thrilling spectacle at the Philadelphia Cricket Club.
The Schuylkill River will be the venue for numerous rowing events throughout the year. From the Stotesbury Cup Regatta in May to the Independence Day Regatta in June, Philadelphia will host high-profile races featuring thousands of competitors and boats.
In May, Philadelphia will also showcase top collegiate lacrosse talent as Drexel University hosts the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship at Lincoln Financial Field. Divisions I, II, and III will compete to determine the best team in the nation.
From August to October, the Philadelphia International Unity Cup will unite the city’s neighborhoods and celebrate its diverse immigrant communities through a World Cup-style soccer tournament. This annual event has become a tradition since its inception in 2016.
Other notable events include the Philadelphia Distance Run in September, the U.S. Open Squash Championships in October, and the Philadelphia Marathon in November. These events offer participants a chance to experience both the city’s history and the thrill of competition.
As Philadelphia prepares to shine on the sporting stage in 2024, locals and visitors alike are eagerly anticipating the adrenaline rush that these events will bring. With a diverse range of sports on display, the city is set to cement its reputation as a sporting powerhouse and host unforgettable moments for athletes and spectators alike.
