Whether your Independence Day preferences tend more toward patriotism or partying, a pet parade or freedom-celebrating art, the birthplace of America has got you covered.
Check out how the Fourth of July has been celebrated in the city in past years, get up to date on the rules for setting off personal fireworks, and then have a look at your many options for enjoying the holiday in town this year.
Wednesday, July 3
South Street Stroll
The festivities start early with a family-oriented event, the Meet Me on South Street Firework Stroll. From 5 to 9 p.m., attendees are invited to stroll South Street and partake from food trucks and other outdoor dining and drinking options. The festival runs from 8th Street, where there will be a marketplace and a DJ, to a street party near 3rd Street with live art and karaoke. Then keep heading east to Front Street Green and settle in to watch pre-Independence Day fireworks over the USS New Jersey, just across the river.
U.S. Army Field Band with LeAnn Rimes
The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus and country singer LeAnn Rimes will present a “Salute to Service” at Independence National Historical Park, 599 Market St., starting at 7 p.m. Described as “a celebration of all there is to love about our nation,” including its “unparalleled natural landscapes …[and] warm and welcoming people,” the performance will also honor veterans and soldiers serving overseas. Attendees should bring a chair or blanket and find a spot on the park’s lawn.
Thursday, July 4
Celebration of Freedom ceremony
Mayor Cherelle Parker and others will speak at a ceremony where three awards will be presented: the inaugural Mayor’s One Philly Award, the Wawa Foundation Hero Award and The Celebrate Freedom Award. The event begins at 10 a.m. at Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut St.
Second annual Patriotic Pet Parade
The day’s most exclusive event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. in the courtyard of the Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St. Pets decked out in red, white and blue will “prance and preen in their patriotic get-ups” as they vie for prizes in five categories: Best in Show, Betsy Pet/Owner Duo, Most Inspired by Betsy, Most Patriotic, and Best Non-Canine. The competition is limited to just 25 pets (and owners), with registration available in advance or on-site the day of the event.
Salute to Independence Parade
The city’s annual Fourth of July parade is described by organizers as the “country’s largest Independence Day procession.” It draws thousands of viewers along its route, which will start at 2nd and Market streets at 11 a.m. and run west to City Hall. Expect to see a diverse variety of groups marching, including bands and performers from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, New York, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Minnesota — and Honduras.
Free Museum Days
Several museums across Philly, from Independence Mall to Fairmount Park and beyond, are welcoming guests for free with family-friendly activities on the holiday. Check their websites and https://july4thphilly.com/events/ for registration details.
INDIVISIBLE exhibit
Germantown’s iMPeRFeCT Gallery hosts an opening reception for INDIVISIBLE: A Celebration of Immigrants, Refugees and the Pursuit of Freedom. The exhibit showcases “the narratives and artistic expression of those who have chosen to make the United States their home despite hostility, white supremacy and broken systems” and imagines a future where immigrants are celebrated. It runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at 5539 Germantown Ave.
Parkway concert and fireworks
The annual Wawa Welcome America concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway features musicians Ne-Yo and Kesha this year as well as the traditional fireworks extravaganza. Gates open at 4 p.m.; DJ Diamond Kuts and Snacktime perform on the Pennsylvania Lottery Groove Stage from 4 to 6 p.m.; the headliners hit the main stage at 7 p.m.; and fireworks are scheduled for 9:45 p.m., subject to weather and concert timing. Attendance is free. The main entrance is at 20th and the Parkway (Logan Circle). Tickets are not required, except for the front section. Front section tickets are being given away via social media and on-site at festival events. Visit the city’s event page for more logistical details.
Fireworks views
The rockets’ red glare will be visible from high places and open spaces around town. Visit Philadelphia has a list of good viewing locations, including spots around Center City, Fairmount Park, the Schuylkill Banks and at various rooftop lounges.
