Guide To The Papal Visit
With Pope Francis' upcoming visit to Philadelphia, he becomes the fourth reigning Pontiff to visit the United States. Here's your guide to the historic event.
THE BASICS
What: Pope Francis makes his first journey to the United States this September. His six-day Apostolic Journey begins in Washington, D.C. on September 22nd before moving on to New York City and finally, the City of Brotherly Love. During his time in Philly, the Pope will visit local landmarks, hold mass, visit a local prison and address a massive crowd – among other things.
When: Pope Francis is scheduled to arrive in Philly on Saturday, September 26th at 9:30 a.m. and will remain in the city until approximately 8 p.m. on September 27th.
Where: In Philadelphia, Pope Francis will visit various cathedrals and historic landmarks. He'll also hold mass on the Ben Franklin Parkway.
SCHEDULE
Saturday, September 26
8:40 a.m. Departure from John F. Kennedy International Airport
9:30 a.m. Arrival at Atlantic Aviation, Philadelphia
10:30 a.m. Mass at Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, Philadelphia
4:45 p.m. Visit to Independence Mall
After speech at Independence Mall: Papal parade will run along the Parkway before Festival of Families.
7:30 p.m. Visit to the Festival of Families Benjamin Franklin Parkway
PERFORMANCES
Mark Wahlberg will serve as the host for The Festival of Families on September 26 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Aretha Franklin will perform for the Pope, along with The Fray.
Eakins Oval Stage: Saturday, September 26
(In performance order; Performances begin at 5:27 p.m.)
• American DanceWheels
• Jackie Evancho
• Matt Maher
• Sister Sledge
• Jim Gaffigan
Logan Square Stage: Saturday, September 26
(In performance order; Performances begin at 12:45 p.m.)
• Salvation Army Songsters
• Dancing with Students
• Christopher Duffley
• Saint Raymond of Peñafort Gospel Choir
• Modero Dance Company
• Nigeria/Igbo Community @ St. Cyprian Viva Mas
• Mutya Philippine Dance Company
• St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Community
• Oscuro Quintet
• Everything Fitz
• Joe Castillo
• Osage Ballet Company
Sunday, September 27
9:15 a.m. Meeting with bishops at at St. Martin's Chapel, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
11:00 a.m. Visit to Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility
4:00 p.m. Mass for the conclusion of the World Meeting of Families, Benjamin Franklin Parkway
7:00 p.m. Visit with organizers, volunteers and benefactors of the World Meeting of Families, Atlantic Aviation
8:00 p.m. Departure for Rome
*Sunday's Papal parade route and time TBD.
For more on the Papal Visit itinerary, click here.
TRANSPORTATION
There are numerous ways to get to Philadelphia during the Papal visit, such as SEPTA, PATCO, NJ Transit, just to name a few.
For more on the World Meeting of Families 2015, visit our guide.
Not excited about the crowds expected in the city during the Pope's visit? Check out our getaway guide on escaping the city during the Papal visit.
