PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia is putting Canadians at the centre of its latest tourism push with a new video series highlighting Canadian-born residents who now call the city home.
The campaign, titled ‘You’ll Love It Here: A Canadian Welcome to Philadelphia,’ aims to encourage Canadians to rediscover the city’s cultural, culinary and historic experiences.
“We’re very lucky to have so many extraordinary Canadians thriving in various high-profile roles and institutions here in Philadelphia,” said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB). “At a time when Canadians might need extra encouragement to return to the U.S., we believe the best people to tell Philadelphia’s story to Canadians are their fellow Canadians who know the city, love it, and have chosen to stay here.”
The Canadian-born Philadelphians featured in the campaign include Daniel Brière, general manager of the Philadelphia Flyers; Raina Douris, host of World Cafe on WXPN; Alex Kemp, co-owner and chef of My Loup; Nic Macri, chef of Royal Tavern; and Sasha Suda, director and CEO of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
In the videos, they speak about their experiences living and working in Philadelphia, describing it as a welcoming city with much to offer. “Canada will always be my home,” says Douris. “But Philadelphia, that’s my home away from home.” Suda adds, “There’s so much about Philadelphia for Canadians to love.” Flyers executive Brière, who has lived in the region for nearly 20 years, even delivers a message in French Canadian, telling viewers, “You’ll love it in Philadelphia!”
The six-week campaign launched in late August and will stream on Amazon Prime, Bell Media, and Warner Bros platforms, as well as on social media. The videos are appearing in key Canadian markets including Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Vancouver, Ottawa and Halifax. Each ad directs viewers to DiscoverPHL.com/Canada, where travellers can access the Bureau’s International Visitors Guide and trip planning resources.
Canada remains Philadelphia’s largest international market, with over 535,000 Canadians visiting the city in 2024 and contributing more than US$235 million to the local economy. Nonstop flights connect the region to Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Quebec City (seasonal), with additional access through Amtrak and multi-city East Coast itineraries by car.
The PHLCVB continues to invest in the Canadian market through media outreach, partnerships with travel advisors and operators and special events. Past efforts have included joint promotions with the Philadelphia Orchestra during Canadian performances and collaborations at Phillies and Blue Jays games in Toronto.
“We’re going to keep being creative about our outreach to the Canadian audience,” said Caren. “We’re always looking for innovative ways to showcase Philadelphia as a destination that will surprise you, welcome you, and make you want to visit again and again.”
For more information about travel to Philadelphia, go to DiscoverPHL.com.
