Founding Futures

Visit Philadelphia and TED are collaborating to create TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures Held in honor of America’s 250th birthday in 2026, this flagship event will feature more than a dozen brand-new TED Talks from the Marian Anderson Hall stage, as well as interactive activations, performances, culinary pop-ups, and networking opportunities. The event’s Founding Futures theme takes an active interpretation of the word “founding,” exploring the evolving story of democracy, while both honoring our past and looking ahead. We’re not just celebrating what was founded here, but asking how we are founding the future. Guests are invited to imagine the democracy we want to build by examining the ideals that shaped the past and the hard-earned lessons that continue to push us forward. At a time when democratic values are being tested and redefined, Founding Futures asks: How do we — together — create a future that is more just, inclusive, participatory, and resilient?