Yo, Adrian. They did it!
After the success of the first “Rocky Day” last year, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation decided to go another round by culminating RockyFest2024 – a six-day extravaganza of special events paying homage to the fictional boxing film franchise portrayed in the streets of Philly.
The schedule of events kicks off with the second annual “Rocky Day” on Dec. 3, and continues with fun special events through Dec. 8, presenting new opportunities for visitors who journey to experience the backdrop to the iconic movies.
“Every day at our visitor centers, we meet and talk to fans from all over the world who have come to Philadelphia to run the art museum steps and take their photo with the Rocky statue,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO, Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “Rocky is a hero for so many people and the message of the film, rising above all odds to become a champion, has inspired a national and international pilgrimage to this iconic site.”
The original film, which debuted in 1976, memorably shows Sylvester Stallone galloping through South Philly’s Italian Market while training to fight Apollo Creed for the world heavyweight championship. It’s just one of the many locations Rocky fans frequently visit to strengthen a connection with the nearly 50-year-old movie.
“Annually, millions of visitors make their way to Philadelphia, inspired by Rocky’s triumphant story,” said Angela Val, president and CEO, Visit Philadelphia. “Rocky appeals to fans from all over and remains a significant aspect of our tourism economy nearly 50 years after its release. We’re excited about this year’s lineup of events and look forward to welcoming all who journey here to celebrate this cultural icon.”
RockyFest 2024 will feature Rocky Bus Tours, a Rocky Movie Marathon and recreated Rocky Date Nights at the University of Pennsylvania’s 1923 Ice Rink and the Philadelphia Zoo. Tickets to RockyFest events are available through PHLVisitorCenter.com/RockyFest.
“Philadelphia is embracing this Rocky-fueled tourism, and we are ready to roll out the red carpet to welcome these visitors and show them the best of what our city has to offer,” Ott Lovell said. “That’s what RockyFest is all about, creating an opportunity for Rocky super-fans from near and far to have this collective experience and live their Rocky dreams.”
Rocky Bus Tours actually begin before RockyFest 2024 officially begins. Starting Nov. 29, the Philadelphia Visitor Center will work with its Philly PHLASH tourism bus service to take fans to several “must-see” spots from the Rocky series on a 90-minute tour. Laurel Hill Cemetery, Mighty Mick’s Gym, the church where Father Carmine gives Rocky a blessing before the big fight, the Italian Market and many others are listed stops along the way. The tour begins at the Parkway Visitor Center. Individual tickets are $49 while senior/student tickets are $42.
The Rocky Movie Marathon will take place throughout the six-day event. Join up for a single movie ($14) or book the whole package ($48) at the Philadelphia Film Center, 1412 Chestnut St. Ticket holders will have early access to purchase a RockyFest 2024 commemorative poster.
On Dec. 5, from 5-7 p.m., Cherry Street Pier will host Southpaws @ The Docks: Pugs and Mugs Yappy Hour, inviting furry friends to celebrate the iconic bond between Rocky and his beloved Bullmastiff, Butkus. This free pet-friendly happy hour will feature light pay-as-you-go refreshments and beverages benefiting the Philadelphia Kennel Club.
“We so appreciate being involved in RockyFest in recognition of the Bullmastiff ‘Butkus,’ one of the movie’s great characters,” said Wayne Ferguson, president of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia. “Loyal friend and training partner, Butkus enriched Rocky’s life and it’s cool to celebrate the Bullmastiff breed, one of dogdom’s most prominent.”
Drawing thousands of people daily, the Rocky statue will once again be in the spotlight at the art museum. On Dec. 6, A Monumental Conversation with Dr. Paul Farber will take center stage. The Director of Monument Lab and host of The Statue podcast will provide a deep dive session on the biography of the Rocky statue. Tickets are $20. A second session will be held on Dec. 7 at the Liberty View at Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market St.
Looking to show your romantic side, Rocky Date Nights at the University of Pennsylvania Ice Skating Rink (Dec. 6) and the Philadelphia Zoo (Dec. 7) should be circled on the calendar. The ice rink ($25 for individual tickets, $12.50 students) will feature signature drink specials, a Rocky and Adrian lookalike contest, film recreation photo ops and speed dating for Philadelphia singles.
The Zoo will host the second Rocky Date Night during its LumiNature event, featuring a million twinkling lights across 16 illuminated zones. Recreate Rocky and Adrian’s date at the Philadelphia Zoo with a two-ticket package for $75.
Free-flowing events will include a mural tribute saluting “Real Life Rockys” (location TBD) and the Rocky Shop at the Parkway Visitor Center (open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). The RockyFest signature public event will be announced leading up to the start of the event.
“The City of Philadelphia is proud to support RockyFest 2024,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “The story of Rocky is the story of the underdog, the blue-collar fighter who rises from a neighborhood gym to take his shot at the heavyweight champion of the world. It’s about grit and perseverance and never, ever giving up on your dreams. That’s Philly, and it is why this iconic movie has such enduring appeal here and around the world. We want everyone to come to Philly, enjoy RockyFest 2024, and stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants and enjoy our wonderful city.”
