Birthdays call for big celebrations, and there is no better place to celebrate America’s birthday than in Philadelphia. For America’s 240th birthday, the city where it all began is putting together all kinds of events, ranging from free concerts, firework shows, parades and block parties. To help with your 4th of July planning, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite events taking place this holiday weekend, making this one birthday celebration you’ll never forget.
- Wawa Hoagie Day on Independence Mall – Thursday, June 30, 2016
Wawa is giving out over 5 tons of free hoagies in celebration of America’s birthday. The event will begin with a salute to the nation’s military service men and women, firefighters and police officers via a march carried out by military heroes and re-enactors, and then the hoagies will be disbursed to the masses!
- Summer Mummer Concert – Thursday, June 30, 2016
Come out for an evening of fun and dance with the South Philadelphia String Band. Band members will be outfitted in full Mummer attire, so don’t forget to grab some photos!
- Cupcakes, Classics and Couture at the Marian Anderson Historical Residence Museum – Saturday, July 2,2016
Come indulge in gourmet cupcakes while enjoying live performances and exploring period gowns and other couture at the Marian Anderson Historical Residence Museum. The 19th-century house where the event will be held celebrates Marian Anderson, one of the greatest contralto singers of the 20th century.
- Historic Philadelphia Block Party– Sunday, July 3, 2016
Party the day away at the new Historic Philadelphia Block Party. The festivities will fill the streets around Independence Hall with live entertainment, food vendors, kids’ games and activities for all ages. Special appearances by 18th-century citizens will add a truly patriotic touch to the day-long fete!
- Party on the Parkway – Monday, July 4, 2016
All of Philadelphia comes together in one giant romp for the Party on the Parkway from noon – 10 p.m. Kidz Bop kicks off the day of musical performances, dance, children’s activities, foods and cultural events that celebrate the city’s many neighborhoods and nationalities. Following the Party on the Parkway, The Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert takes over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with one of the largest free outdoor concerts in the country with headliner Leon Bridges.
Find the complete list of 4th of July events in Philadelphia here. Happy Birthday America! 