Marking the 47th anniversary of the American film franchise Rocky’s original premiere in 1976, Visitor Center, Visit Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Museum of Art came together to launch the ‘Rocky Shop’ at Parkway Visitor Center, Philadelphia.
In a press statement, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) says that the event featured a resolution from the City of Philadelphia declaring December 3 as ‘Rocky Day’. The launch event was attended by the noted American actor and filmmaker Sylvester Stallone, who played the lead role in the franchise.
The bureau says that at the Rocky Shop, visitors and fans can purchase licensed apparel and souvenirs from the Rocky franchise licensed exclusively by ‘Sly Stallone Shop,’ the official brand of Sylvester Stallone.
“This day is an amazing day for me and the people who have taken Rocky into their hearts. When I come to Philly and stand on the steps, it touches my soul like it did when I was a child. This is a very special place in a very special city… Believe me, there’s no other place like it in the world!” says Sylvester Stallone.
“This film and this character are beloved worldwide, providing an immediate and emotional connection to Philadelphia, thus connecting us to the world. It has become part of our brand. There is something wonderful about walking near the incredible Philadelphia Museum of Art and seeing people running up these steps, turning around at the top, and raising their arms in triumph. We see it every day, all day, all year round. We embrace Rocky as part of our own story, as part of who we are as a city, and as part of what we give to the world. Philadelphia, as the iconic home to this iconic character called Rocky, gives people a sense of hope, a belief in the impossible, and an opportunity to see themselves as unlikely heroes and champions,” says Gregg Caren, President and CEO, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The statement adds that Stallone made a contribution of USD 100,000, and donated his portion of proceeds from Rocky Shop to support the restoration of the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s East Terrace and the famous ‘Rocky Steps.’
The statement adds that Rocky Shop and Parkway Visitor Center Outpost will be open to visitors from 10:00 to 17:00 every Thursday through Monday for retail, information, and tickets to major city attractions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and cultural attractions along the Parkway.