Main Spotlight: Connecting, Innovating, and Sustaining a Healthy Main Street Movement
Key takeaways from six sessions at the 2025 Main Street Now Conference.
Independence Hall © Sean Pavone/iStock
April 7 – 9, 2025
Thank you Philadelphia!
It was absolutely amazing to be in Philadelphia for the 2025 Main Street Now Conference. Over the course of three days, 2171 local leaders from across the country (and world) gathered in The City of Brotherly Love to participate in 100+ dynamic educational sessions led by over 190 place professionals, 24 immersive mobile workshops, and countless moments to connect and celebrate.
Huge thanks to everyone who came and to our sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, and co-host partners—Pennsylvania Downtown Center and Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development—for making this year’s conference possible. No matter your role in the Main Street movement or your home base, we hope that you had a great time connecting with peers from across our network, learning the latest in preservation-based economic development, and getting energized to take your organization’s Main Street efforts to the next level.
See you next year in Tulsa, Oklahoma!
Opening Plenary at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Marta Olmos.
An enthusiastic volunteer welcomes guests to the Opening Plenary. Photo by Pennsylvania Downtown Center.
Raton MainStreet celebrates its 2025 Great American Main Street Award. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Tuesday’s Main Idea panel discusses trust in community development. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Network-building in between sessions. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Mobile workshop in Media, Pennsylvania. Photo by David Sibley.
Speakers bring topics to life with humor. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Küf Knotz & Christine Elise performing at the Closing Celebration. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Mary Means and the 2025 Mary Means Leadership Award recipients. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Dancing at the Big Bash. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Big Bash at FDR Park. Photo by BeauMonde Originals.
Visit the Main Street Now Conference Facebook albums to explore snapshots of Main Streeters in action and memorable moments from the Welcome Reception to the Big Bash! For more photos, videos, and perspectives from fellow conference attendees, search #MainStreetNow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
For Attendees
We are pleased to provide these quick links for attendees to access session materials (available through December 19, 2025) and view the printed program booklet.
Featured Articles
On the Durability of Main Streets
Erin Barnes explores the ways that Main Street programs are built to last, and how we can recognize this durability in the places we love and the organizations we steward.
Main Spotlight: Sustaining Philadelphia from the Past to the Future
Learn how Philadelphia celebrates its rich historical legacy and built environment to create a more sustainable future.
Find Real World Experiences and Innovative Solutions at Main Street Now 2025
Our featured speakers lineup includes local leaders and industry experts sharing first-hand insights about creating a sustainable movement where everyone can fully participate and thrive.
Main Spotlight: How Communities Are Reimagining Streets for Everyone
Learn how Main Streets in Philadelphia are using active transportation to foster healthier and more connected communities.
Four Reasons Why Main Street Now 2025 is a Must-Attend for Civic Leaders
If you are a civic leader passionate about strengthening your community’s downtown district, then you must check out the 2025 Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 7 – 9. Check out these four reasons why.
Main Spotlight: Connect, Learn & Celebrate – Preview the 2025 Main Street Now Conference Schedule
Rooted in foundational topics and inspired by feedback from the Main Street network, this year’s schedule is bursting with opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate. Check it out!
Main Spotlight: Connecting Communities in Philadelphia
In preparation for the 2025 Main Street Now Conference, Pennsylvania Coordinator Julie Fitzpatrick explores active transportation and public art in Philadelphia.
