Rendell: PoliticalFest brings Philadelphians to convention

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- You can feel the excitement as we get closer to the Democratic National Convention shining the spotlight on Philadelphia.

One of the big events put on by the Host Committee is PoliticalFest that kicks off this Friday.

"It is the way people of Greater Philadelphia can gain access to the convention. They can't get into the building, those tickets are long gone, but you can get here and bring your kids and learn about political process and learn about our history," former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell said.

On Thursday, workers hosted a press tour to highlight the cultural and political exhibits that will be on display across the city at seven locations including the National Constitution Center and the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Each location will have a special theme.

"We want every visitor, and there will be over 50,000, to come away thinking this is a city that works and Mayor Kenney has done a great job of getting us ready, and this is an exciting, dynamic city and a city they'll want to come back to," Rendell said.

The six-day festival is being touted as a one-of-a-kind event that will celebrate political history, government, and the road to the White House.

Delegates and visitors who participate can expect to experience interactive displays, historical objects and special guest appearances designed to entertain and engage everyone.

"The RNC was held here in 2000. Actually, my mom ran PoliticalFest in 2000 for the RNC and I came to that, too, and it was thrilling. I think it's very exciting to have the DNC here in the birthplace of our nations," actress Melissa Fitzgerald said.

ONLINE: http://www.phldnc.com/politicalfest/