The city of Philadelphia is fully immersed in preparations and festivities for the Fourth of July week.
With Wawa’s Welcome America lineup already in motion, various holiday-themed events are scheduled throughout the city.
And the celebrations don’t stop on July 4th, which falls on a Friday this year, providing an extended weekend of festivities.
From backyard BBQs and fireworks display to museum days and history-infused events, Philly is showcasing its rich heritage and the significance behind America’s independence.
Billy Penn has curated a list of activities to help you plan your week.
### Wednesday, July 2nd
– **Red, White & Blue To-Do Pomp and Parade (9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.)**
A fun-filled day begins with a variety of activities at the Betsy Ross House, including a flag-raising ceremony, storytelling, and live poetry and music.
Highlighting the day is a parade featuring 13 festive wagon floats, each adorned with iconic Philly landmarks, leaving from the National Constitution Center.
The parade route will take participants past Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell before concluding on 3rd Street between Chestnut and Walnut streets.
– **All American Block Party (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)**
This family-friendly event will feature a lineup of food trucks, games, and special activities.
DJ Sophia Rocks will provide entertainment as she brings her talents to the local venue.
**Location:** 3rd Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets.
– **Cocktails and Congress (5:30 p.m.)**
Kicking off at Carpenter’s Hall, guests are transported back to 1774 during the First Continental Congress.
Featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, actors will reenact the debates surrounding independence, taxes, and the unity needed to forge a nation.
Tickets are $50, with the event running Thursdays through August 28.
– **Wednesday Night at Eastern State Penitentiary (5:30 to 9:30 p.m.)**
This event focuses on the theme of “Independence & Incarceration.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to consider the complex paradox of freedom within the walls of this historic prison-turned-educational site.
**Location:** 2027 Fairmount Avenue | **Cost:** $17 online/in advance; $20 at the door.
– **Salute to Service: The United States Army Field Band (7 p.m.)**
The U.S. Army Field Band will perform at Independence Mall as part of the Independence Concert Series.
Performances will also include husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty.
Be sure to bring your own chair or blanket, as seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.
**Location:** 599 Market Street.
### Thursday, July 3rd
– **Welcome to South Street Night Market (5 to 9 p.m.)**
This beloved night market returns to South Street, featuring pop-up vendors and open streets across several blocks.
Attendees can enjoy various local treats and activities to mark the beginning of the Fourth of July weekend.
– **Pops on Independence (7 to 9 p.m.)**
An over-40-year tradition, the Philly Pops will grace the stage under their new name.
Ben Folds will also perform alongside the orchestra, making for a memorable evening.
**Location:** Independence Mall, at 615 Chestnut Street.
Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to bring your own chair or blanket.
### Friday, July 4th
– **Patriotic Pet Costume Contest (10:30 a.m.)**
Philadelphia’s most patriotic pets will strut their stuff at the Betsy Ross House during the third annual Patriotic Pet Parade.
Well-behaved pets of all variety are welcome, with registration available in advance or on-site.
Due to participation limits, the event will cap at 25 participants, with various prizes awarded across categories.
**Location:** Betsy Ross House at 239 Arch Street.
– **National Constitution Center Independence Week (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)**
Visitors can participate in flag-raising ceremonies along with shows focused on the history of independence.
Attendees can also learn about significant figures in American history, including Harriet Tubman and Harriet Beecher Stowe.
**Location:** 6th and Arch Streets | **Admission:** Free.
– **Karaoke & BBQ at Baby’s Kusina (5 p.m.)**
Join in on karaoke fun starting at 6 p.m. at Brewerytown!
Food offerings will include Filipino BBQ skewers and pinoy chili dogs, with grilling starting at 5 p.m.
**Location:** 2816 W Girard Avenue.
– **Cedar Park Friday Night Jazz (6 to 8 p.m.)**
This family-friendly event invites attendees to bring their own lawn chairs and cooler.
Enjoy music from Bobby Zankel’s Wonderful Sound Six as part of a cozy community gathering.
– **Battleship New Jersey Fireworks on the Battleship (7:30 p.m.)**
Experience stunning fireworks from the Camden side of the Delaware River aboard the Battleship New Jersey.
The evening will feature live music, face painting, food concessions, and a full-service bar for all guests.
**Location:** Camden, N.J. side of the Delaware River | Ferry-accessible | **Cost:** $10 tickets.
– **Other Fireworks Shows:**
**Narbeth Park (9 p.m.)**
**Heuser Park (9:15 p.m.)**
**South Germantown Recreational Park (9:15 p.m.)**
**Pleasant Hill Park (9:30 p.m.)**
**Camden Waterfront Stadium (9:30 p.m.)**
– **Welcome America Concert and Fireworks**
The annual Welcome America festival, concert, and fireworks display has been a longtime staple of Philadelphia’s Independence Day festivities.
The celebration has evolved from a single-day event into a 16-day multicultural extravaganza that now also encompasses Juneteenth celebrations.
This year’s concert features performances from LL Cool J, DJ Z-Trip, and Grammy winner Jazmine Sullivan.
Gates will open at 4 p.m. for the concerts, which start at 7 p.m., and while tickets are not required, attendees should be prepared for extensive crowds and strict security measures.
Bags will be checked at the entrance, located at Logan Circle, 20th Street and the Ben Franklin Parkway.
Local organizations will set up tents offering free health screenings and showcasing local food trucks, Rita’s Italian Ice, and Herr’s chip giveaways.
Fireworks will illuminate the Parkway starting at 9:30 p.m.
### Saturday, July 5th
– **Yacht Rock Cook Out (Noon to 11 p.m.)**
Kick off the Fourth of July weekend at Evil Genius Beer Company’s beer garden.
Bringing a taste of summer, attendees can groove to DJ Bob Beast’s tunes throughout the day.
Catch a free live performance from New Yacht City at 7:30 p.m. at the taproom.
### Multi-Day Events
– **Free Museum Days (Various Dates and Times)**
As part of the holiday celebration, numerous museums, including the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and the Mütter Museum, will offer free admission for visitors.
– **Fourth of July Week 2025 at the Museum of the American Revolution**
Expect special activities, costumed interpretations, and crafts for all ages, discussing the relevance of freedom throughout America’s history.
### Fireworks Viewing Tips
To ensure a fantastic view of the Penn’s Landing fireworks, consider these ideal locations:
– Penn’s Landing and its staircase
– Anywhere along Dock to South streets
– Spruce Street Harbor Park
– Race Street Pier or Cherry Street Pier
For those who wish to catch the fireworks in Art Museum, the following venues provide excellent vantage points:
– Lemon Hill
– Schuylkill Banks
– Kelly Drive
– Paine’s Park
– Belmont Park
– Girard Avenue Bridge
– Drexel Park
### Fireworks Safety
In Philadelphia, consumer fireworks such as bottle rockets and firecrackers are legal for adults aged 18 and older.
For regulations on where and when to set off fireworks, check the city’s guidelines.
On non-holidays, quiet hours are observed after 9 p.m., while the July 4th holiday permits a cutoff at 1 a.m.
Although fireworks are allowed, be mindful as National Fire Protection Association statistics indicate they cause approximately 18,500 fires annually, resulting in $43 million in property damage.
Stay safe and informed while participating in the festivities.
### General Safety Tips
Safety on this joyous holiday is paramount.
Remember to drive safely, wearing seat belts and life vests as applicable.
Pennsylvania state officials have reiterated their commitment to zero tolerance for drunk driving during the holiday period, on both land and water.
When grilling, utilize appropriate oven mitts, avoid loose clothing, and never leave BBQ pits unattended.
Ensure that your grill is well-ventilated and free of leaks, and do not place it indoors.
A clean grill is essential to prevent grease buildup, which can pose a fire hazard.
As you celebrate this Independence Day, understand the significance of the history behind the holiday while prioritizing safety and enjoyment.
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