Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Pennsylvania Showcases 2026 Events And Tourism to Irish Tourists and Investors: All You Need To Know Published on
September 24, 2025Hoping to boost both tourism and foreign investment, Pennsylvania’s Shapiro Administration recently travelled to Ireland on an economic development delegation. The primary goal was to deepen cross-border relationships while showcasing Pennsylvania not only as an emerging hub for global enterprises but also as an enticing destination for visitors eager for authentic culture and sports. The delegation was headed by senior leaders from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). Their mission fits squarely within the state’s Economic Development Strategy, a blueprint that attracted more than 93 million USD in new investments over the previous twelve months.The officials, including Secretary Rick Siger, Chief Commercial Officer Aaron Pitts, and Tourism Deputy Secretary Anne Ryan, worked to foster relationships with Irish businesses, build economic partnerships, and promote Pennsylvania as the ultimate destination for international tourism. This initiative comes at an exciting time, with major sporting events like the NFL Draft and the FIFA World Cup planned for 2026 in Pennsylvania, positioning the state as an attractive hub for tourists and global investors alike.Advertisement Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Economic and Tourism FootprintThe trip coincided with a historic moment for Pennsylvania as NFL football reached Ireland for the first time, with the Pittsburgh Steelers playing the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin. This exciting event added a unique dimension to the economic development efforts, creating a significant opportunity to promote Pennsylvania to Irish tourists and strengthen cultural ties. As part of the trip, the VisitPA campaign has launched targeted efforts in Belfast and Dublin, showcasing Pennsylvania’s cultural landmarks and events for 2026. This includes a series of bold murals in Dublin’s Temple Bar area, alongside a Steelers bar at Fitzsimons Pub, all designed to increase awareness of what Pennsylvania has to offer visitors.The promotional campaign highlights Pennsylvania’s unique blend of sports, history, and natural beauty, inviting Irish fans to experience major events in 2026 such as the NFL Draft, FIFA World Cup, and the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia. Additionally, the state will host the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club and more, ensuring a busy year for tourism. These international events will showcase Pennsylvania as a premier destination for global travellers.AdvertisementA Focus on Cultural and Economic Ties Between Pennsylvania and IrelandThe Shapiro Administration’s efforts to boost business investment and tourism focus heavily on the strong relationship between Pennsylvania and Ireland. More than 16,000 employees and 382 Irish companies already call Pennsylvania home, ma …
