DNC volunteers in spotlight at Penn's Landing pep rally

PENN'S LANDING (WPVI) -- The Democratic National Convention has arrived at Penn's Landing.

Volunteers were the stars of Thursday's pep rally - 18,000 of them spent two-and-a-half years planning and prepping to get the city ready for the national stage.

"These are the people who are making this event happen. These are the people who are going to get Hilary elected president," said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.

"The one thing they stress with the volunteers is you are here to make people love Philadelphia," said Joan Tarka of Havertown.

From the treats to the entertainment, and a special message from presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, the crowd is ready to welcome the main attraction.

"I am pumped. I'm looking forward to it really," said Melissa Monts of University City.

"The energy is terrific, and the optimism is high," said Ed Rendell, former Pennsylvania governor and Chairman of the Philadelphia 2016 DNC Host Committee.

"I can feel the excitement building," said Lee Khoo of Sewell, New Jersey.

Michigan Delegate Ron Owens II says it is his first time in Philadelphia, and he is already feeling the brotherly love.

"Philadelphia is great. I was just telling my friend, 'Hey it might be time to come to Philadelphia more often,' " said Ownes. "It's a great city."