Guide to 4th of July in Philadelphia and Wawa Welcome America! Events

Saturday, June 29

• FREE Museum Day at the Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Books

Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Free Library of Philadelphia Central Library at 1901 Vine Street

Check out the Rare Book Department’s latest exhibition—Our 5 Senses, an interactive exhibition for all ages that connects the senses, the brain, and the literary experience across three centuries of unique materials. Experience an interactive exhibition for all ages that connects the brain, the senses, and the literary experience across three centuries of unique materials. In addition, the Rare Book Department offers several galleries showcasing historically important books, manuscripts, and works of art from 3,000 BCE to today. Reserve your FREE ticket by clicking here. Tickets are suggested due to the limited capacity of the Free Library.~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day Christ Church

Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: 20 N. American St

Founded in 1695, Christ Church has been cited as “the finest specimen of Colonial architecture standing.” During the Revolutionary Era, it hosted the Continental Congresses and counted Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross among its members. Tour the sanctuary for FREE on Saturday, June 29. ~ More Info ~

• The Philly Ice Cream Scoop FREE pay-as-you-go

Time: 11:00 – 5:00 pm
Location: Reading Terminal Market at 51 N. 12th Street

The best of Philadelphia’s ice cream artisans will be gathering at the Reading Terminal Marketto celebrate Philly’s rich ice cream heritage at the Philly Ice Cream Scoop. Come enjoy the City’s favorites: Bassetts, Franklin Fountain, Little Baby’s, Lil’ Pop Shop and Zsa’s! Enjoy ice cream specials or win prizes in the ice cream eating contest. ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

Time: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts at 118 – 128 N. Broad St

PAFA’s museum is internationally known for its collections of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. Its archives house important materials for the study of American art history, museums, and art training. ~ More Info ~

• U.S. Army Band, “Pershing’s Own” Concert & Fireworks

Time: 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: Penn’s Landing at Delaware River Waterfront, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd

Listen to the United States Army Band followed by live fireworks at 9:30 pm! ~ More Info ~

Sunday, June 30

• FREE Museum Day at American Swedish Historical Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: 1900 Pattison Ave

Founded in 1926, the American Swedish Historical Museum in South Philadelphia is the oldest Swedish museum in the United States. The Museum’s 20,000 square foot interior is currently divided into twelve exhibition galleries, a reference library, curatorial storage and archives, offices, a museum store, a large dining room/conference area, and a kitchen. The Museum is available to rent for wedding receptions, corporate meetings, and parties! ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at Fort Mifflin

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Fort Mifflin at 1 Fort Miflin Rd

Journey through the Declaration of Independence at Fort Mifflin, a site that defended Philadelphia against the greatest bombardment of the American Revolution.  Participate in the flag raising ceremony, then stay to enjoy guided tours, blacksmithing and heritage craft demonstrations plus hands-on living history activities, uniform, weapon and cannon demonstrations. ~ More Details ~

• FREE Museum Day at The Rosenbach

Time: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: The Rosenbach Museum & Library at 2008 Delancey Place

Tucked among the elegant 19th-century townhomes near Rittenhouse Square, The Rosenbach houses one of the world’s great collections of literature, manuscripts, and rare books. As part of the Wawa Welcome America celebration, visitors are invited to explore the rare book library and historic house along with the temporary exhibition Out of Many, One, which is a look into the diverse individual experiences that shape our country’s history. Families of all ages are also welcome to enjoy a marbled paper bookmaking activity.

Due to limited capacity, guests must pre-register. To download your FREE tickets, register for a timed ticket to attend. ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at Rodin Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Rodin Museum at 2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

The Rodin Museum remains the only institution outside Paris dedicated entirely to the master sculptor. The garden—a lush retreat in the heart of the city—provides an ideal setting in which to experience some of the world’s most celebrated works of art.

Rediscover Rodin with extended hours and a garden bar. Take a tour of our newest installation, Rethinking the Modern Monument, grab a drink, and relax outside.

10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. and extended hours until 8:00 p.m. (weather permitting) ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Morning at One Liberty Observation Deck

Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: One Liberty Observation Deck at 1650 Market St

Located in the heart of Center City Philadelphia, One Liberty Observation Deck is accessible to other major attractions throughout the city, and understandably becomes a must-visit location for visitors. With an observation deck 57 floors above Market Street, the views of Philadelphia can be taken in year round with sunlight or starlight.

On June 30, One Liberty Observation Deck will be open two hours early to participate in this year’s Free Museum Day. From 8 AM – 12 PM (only), guests will enjoy FREE admission to see historic Philly From The Top! ~ More Info ~

• Philadelphia’s Historic Block Party

Time: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Independence Mall ~ 5th and 6th Streets Between Market and Chestnut Streets

The largest block party of the summer offers Philadelphia residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s diverse food scene and some of its finest live entertainment that surrounds Independence Hall & the Liberty Bell.  Enjoy arts, music, a kid’s zone and speech. Throughout the day talented artists will create works of art inspired by our country’s independence on the Artist’s Stage. Entry and entertainment are free; however, food and drinks must be purchased. ~ More Info ~

• FREE Philly @ The Movies ~ Rocky

Time: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: 26th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Yo Adrian! Watching Rocky on the very steps that made Mr. Stallone famous has become a tradition during the week of July 4th in Philadelphia. Wawa Welcome America is continuing this tradition by opening this year’s Philly @ the Movies Series with the iconic Philadelphia film in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art right next to the famous Rocky statue.

Enjoy a Philly-centric night on the famous steps, complete with a Rocky and Creed look-alike contest, entertainment by DJ Hollywood, and trivia led by Bobby Mansure prior to the free screening of the iconic Rocky at 7 PM.

Come early and snag your complimentary blanket courtesy of Chase while supplies last. Also, enjoy complimentary popcorn courtesy of Chase and tasty treats from Herr’s and Tastykake. Additional movie snacks will also be available for purchase. This event is in partnership with thePhiladelphia Film Society. Movie rated PG. ~ More Info ~

Monday, July 1

• FREE Museum Day at Independence Seaport Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: 211 S. Columbus BLVD

Dive into River Alive!, a new exhibit that brings the wildlife, science, and wonder of the Delaware River up close. Raise the sails on the pirate ship Diligence and submerge yourself in hands-on exhibits, the Workshop on the Water, Citizen Science Lab, and MakerSpace, plus one of the largest maritime art and artifact collections in North America. ~ More Info ~

• Peco’s Go 4th & Learn at Penn Park at University of Pennsylvania

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Penn Park, 3000 Walnut St

Enjoy a fun-filled day with fitness,  educational activities, inflatables, music and more! The Philadelphia Union, Philly Girls in Motion & Dancing Classrooms Philly will keep you on your feet by leading dancing, sports & wellness exercises. Members of the community will read some of their favorite books aloud and give away FREE books from Books In Homes USA!See the National Constitution lobby show, “Growing Up America”, get your face painted and see cool insects from the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion!”~ More Info ~

• FREE Philly @ The Movies ~ Invincible

Time: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: 33rd & Spruce Street

Celebrate Franklin Field’s 125th Anniversary with this fan favorite paying tribute to Philadelphia Eagle and local hero, Vince Papale. Come early for photo ops on the field where it was filmed. Take part in the 125th anniversary activities like testing your football & movie knowledge with trivia hosted by Bobby Mansure.

Come early and snag your complimentary blanket courtesy of Chase while supplies lasts. Enjoy complimentary popcorn courtesy of Chase and  tasty treats from Herr’s and Tastykake while enjoying music provided by DJ Hollywood. Additional movie snacks will also be available for purchase provided by Aramark. The movie will begin at 7 PM. This event is in partnership with the Philadelphia Film Society. Movie rated PG. ~ More Info ~

• The United States Army Field Band & WAWA Welcome America Waterfront Fireworks

Time: 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing – Columbus BLVD & Chestnut St

Join the U.S. Army Field Band for a musical celebration of American independence in the city where it all began. Come early to enjoy music by DJ Cutmaster while scaling up the U.S. Army rock climbing wall and participating in interactive activities with the U.S. Army and other sponsors.

Valerie Knight from 106.1 The Breeze will host the celebration featuring special guest the Honorable Patrick J. Murphy, former acting Secretary of the U.S. Army and former U.S. Congressman, and an entertaining parachute drop performed by the U.S. Army Golden Knights.

The U.S. Army Field Band will be debuting “Let Freedom Ring,” which is a musical and visual celebration to honor Independence Day. Recall the historic fight for liberty as authentic fifes and drums march out Yankee Doodle. Feel the power of American music as the Concert Band performs one of the most iconic symphonic works of all time, the Finale from Aaron Copland’s “Symphony No. 3.” Join Army Field Band Soldiers as they honor the Greatest Generation and mark the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day landing at Normandy. Show us how Philly likes to party and sing along to music from The Greatest Showman, Aretha Franklin, and John Philip Sousa! The program comes to a dramatic conclusion as the Concert Band and Soldiers’ Chorus perform “Testament of Freedom,” based on the writings of Thomas Jefferson. “Let Freedom Ring” reminds Americans what the 4th of July is all about, and there’s no better way to celebrate freedom and have some fun!

The evening concludes with a breathtaking fireworks finale choreographed to a soundtrack featuring the Great American Orators. ~ More Info ~

Tuesday, July 2

• FREE Admission to National Constitution Center

Times: 9:30 am – 8 pm
Location: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street

Guests can enjoy an array of patriotic festivities surrounding Independence Week, including the interactive “Independence Day Show,” colonial-era arts and crafts, 18th century games, and more! ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at the African American Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street

Visit the African American Museum to experience the richness and vibrancy of African American heritage and culture in four exhibition galleries filled with exciting history and fascinating art. ~ More Info ~

• 1776 Revolutionary War Encampment Experience

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (July 2 to 4)
Location: National Constitution Center (Front Lawn), 525 Arch Street

FREE – (admission not included) Experience the life of an American Revolutionary War soldier through a recreated historic military encampment. Guests will be able to practice mustering with the troops, visit the wounded in a medical tent, watch how soldiers reloaded their weapons and much more. At 1 p.m. on July 4, join them for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. ~ More Info ~

• WAWA Hoagie Day

Time: Noon – 2 pm
Location: Independence Mall, Market Street Between 5th and 6th Streets

FREE – Your lunch is on WAWA! Enjoy a free hoagie, chips, a Tastykake and drink. This event is in honor of local and national heroes including members of the military, fire and police departments. Enjoy shows by the USO Show Troupe. For more details, Click Here

• Kimmel Center’s Broadway Philadelphia On Independence

Time: 5:00 – 7:30 pm
Location: Commonwealth Plaza at the Kimmel Center at 300 S. Broad St

Enjoy free performances in the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza direct from the 2019/20 season. This FREE event will feature festival-style activities along Spruce Street and live performances, including casts direct from Broadway – representing Dear Evan Hansen and Mean Girls – jazz performers, and the U.S. Navy Band Cruisers, all under the 156,000 square foot glass ceiling, giving an outside festival vibe in air-conditioned comfort.The Kimmel Center’s ShowStoppers education program will take the stage to lead Hamiltunes, a sing-along inspired by and covering selections from the highly-anticipated Hamilton musical.

The evening includes family-friendly activities like face painting & balloon art; themed beverages and concessions will be available for purchase and “picnic-style” games will be available for FREE, along with activations from area arts organizations and a ton of swag & exclusive giveaways! ~ More Info ~

Wednesday, July 3

• FREE Admission at Penn Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Penn Museum, 3260 South St in University City

~ More Info~

• FREE Admission at Eastern State Penitentiary

Time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: Eastern State Penitentiary,  2027 Fairmount Ave in Fairmount

Explore America’s most historic prison at night! ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at Fireman’s Hall Museum 

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Fireman’s Hall Museum at 147 N. 2nd St 

Check out antique firefighting engines and trucks & one of the city’s newest fire trucks! Explore what it’s like to be a firefighter by trying on firefighters’ gear and touring the museum. Learn when & how to call 911. Meet Firefighter Ben, listen to special stories, and take part in scavenger hunts and challenges throughout the museum. ~ More Info ~

• FREE Museum Day at Philadelphia Museum of Art 

Time: 5:00 m – 8:45 pm
Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Pay-What-You-Wish at the Philadelphia Museum of Art! Visitors can enjoy a landmark building. A world-renowned collection. A place that welcomes everyone with so much fascinating art and more. ~ More Details ~

• FREE Museum Day at Mütter Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Mutter Museum at 3001 19 South 22 St

Pay-What-You-Wish at America’s Finest Museum of Medical History. The Mütter Museum displays its beautifully preserved collections of anatomical specimens, models, and medical instruments in a nineteenth-century “cabinet museum” setting. The goal of the museum is to help visitors understand the mysteries and beauty of the human body and appreciate the history of diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy the Spit Spreads Death exhibition pop-up, outdoor games with the Center for Education, coloring print-outs and  the Historical Medical Library exhibition pop-up from 1-4pm. ~ More Details ~

• FREE Museum Day at National Liberty Museum

Time: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Location: National Liberty Museum,  321 Chestnut St

The National Liberty Museum brings liberty to life through stories of people whose character and courage have expanded liberty for all. The Museum’s exhibits, educational experiences and public programs inspire visitors to think about liberty as an ongoing human quest that we all share and to ring the exact replica of the Liberty Bell! ~ More Info ~

• 1776 Revolutionary War Encampment Experience

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (July 3 to 4)
Location: National Constitution Center (Front Lawn), 525 Arch Street

FREE – (admission not included) Experience the life of an American Revolutionary War soldier through a recreated historic military encampment. Guests will be able to practice mustering with the troops, visit the wounded in a medical tent, watch how soldiers reloaded their weapons and much more. At 1 p.m. on July 4, join them for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. ~ More Info ~

• PECO’s Go 4th & Learn: Philadelphia Fire Department Ladder 2

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: 4th & Arch Sts

Join the Philadelphia Fire Dept, Mural Arts Philadelphia and Wawa at 10 am for the unveiling of a new mural design that celebrates the history of the Philadelphia Fire Department – one of the oldest professional fire departments in the nation. Enjoy live demonstrations and learn fire safety tips from the firefighters who keep us safe and electric safety tips from PECO. Get a chance to climb on a fire truck, try on firefighting uniforms and paint your own mural. Face painting, EMS health screenings and fire safety demonstrations from the Fire Explorers are also available.

Afterward, visit the Fireman’s Hall Museum for FREE and learn even more about the history of the fire safety in Philadelphia. ~ More Info~

• FREE Pops! on Independence

Time: 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: Steps of Independence Hall, Chestnut Street, between 5th & 6th Sts

The Philly POPS! return to celebrate America’s birthday with POPS! On Independence, a free concert at Independence Hall. With the backdrop of Independence Hall, the 65-piece Philly POPS Orchestra, led by Music Director-Designate Todd Ellison, will perform a patriotic, entertaining show. Seating is first-come, first come first serve, and concert goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s most popular Fourth of July traditions. The Philly POPS will be joined by Tony-nominated actress and singer Susan Egan, best known as the original ‘Belle’ in Disney’s Beauty and the Beaston Broadway and the voice of ‘Meg’ in Disney’s Hercules, among many other Broadway, television and film performances. ~ More Info ~

Thursday, July 4

• 1776 Revolutionary War Encampment Experience

Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (July 4)
Location: National Constitution Center (Front Lawn), 525 Arch Street

FREE – (admission not included) Experience the life of an American Revolutionary War soldier through a recreated historic military encampment. Guests will be able to practice mustering with the troops, visit the wounded in a medical tent, watch how soldiers reloaded their weapons and much more. At 1 p.m. on July 4, join them for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. ~ More Info ~

• FREE Admission to The Museum of American Jewish History

Times: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall E, 5th & Market Streets

Come celebrate Independence Day with National Museum of American Jewish History! Explore how our leaders impacted American history, American society, and the American Jewish Community. Explore an original letter written by George Washington to the Jewish Community of Newport, Rhode Island, and enjoy interactive gallery talks, story time, and Independence Day arts and crafts projects. All ages are welcome. ~ More Info ~

• Celebration of Freedom Ceremony

Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Location: Steps of Independence Hall, Chestnut Street, between 5th & 6th Sts

Philadelphians and visitors can pay tribute to our nation at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony featuring music, inspiring remarks, among other special elements. The ceremony will be an old-fashioned salute to our nation’s history connecting the tapestry of stars and stripes to a modern-day Philadelphia. The pageantry spotlights music, video presentations, speeches and – accompanied by a spirited musical rendition to celebrate America’s 243^nd birthday.~ More Info ~ 

• Independence Day Parade

Time: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Location: Throughout Historic Philadelphia in Olde City

You won’t want to miss the largest Independence Day Parade in decades as it comes to life in Philadelphia’s Historic District. Over 6,000 participants will march through the nation’s most historic square mile. Special guests include Miss America and more!

The parade begins at 5^th and Chestnut Streets, then travels West on Chestnut Street to 9^th Street. It then turns right onto 9^th Street, before heading down Market Street toward Front Street. The parade finishes by marching down Front Street to Chestnut Street. Total route is 1.2 miles long. ~ More Info ~

• Party on the Parkway

Time: Noon – 7:00 pm
Location:  Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 20th Street to Eakins Oval

The highly anticipated, day-long Party on the Parkway features 5 blocks of exciting activities, games, entertainment (free), and food for the whole family. Families can enjoy an interactive kid’s area featuring Zipline, an acro dunker show, arts and crafts with the Clay Mobile and much more . The 21+ crowd can kick back and relax in two beer gardens, and all can enjoy the diverse food. ~ More Info~

• Philly 4th of July Concert & Fireworks

Time: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Eakins Oval

Join everyone for a star-studded evening on the Independence Blue Cross Stage featuring performances by two-time Grammy Award-winning artist and Academy Award-winning actress, Jennifer Hudson, alongside the Philly POPS BIG Band, and Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, Meghan Trainor. The Independence Day celebrations continue with a dazzling fireworks display choreographed to a custom patriotic soundtrack created and performed by the United States Army Field Band. This is the first time in Welcome America history that the United States Army Field Band will perform live on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art as the fireworks light up the sky above red, white and blue.

The Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert & Fireworks is FREE and open to the public. Guests are invited to join the Party on the Parkway beginning at Eakin’s Oval and continuing along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway up to 20th Street. Tickets are NOT nee ded to watch from the Parkway. Please note, tickets are needed for the seated section in Eakin’s Oval. Become a Friend of Welcome America or follow us on social media to be the first to know when FREE tickets become available.~ More Info ~

 

FYI: Street Closures in the Area

 

Wednesday, July 3 – Historic Philadelphia Block Party in Independence Mall area
5^th and 6^th streets, between Market and Chestnut streets, will be closed to vehicular traffic, from 9:30 a.m. until midnight. Chestnut Street, between 5^th and 6^th streets, will be closed to vehicular traffic, from 9:30 a.m. on July 3^d through Saturday, July 4^th at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 3 – Preparation for the July 4^th concert and fireworks in Ben Franklin Parkway area
The inbound inner lanes of the Parkway will be closed July 3 from 9:30 a.m. through 5 a.m. on Sunday, July 5
The outbound inner lanes of the Parkway will be closed to vehicular traffic, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., for set-up related to the concert. The outbound lanes will open, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., for evening rush, and then close, from 6:30 p.m. on July 3 to 5 a.m. on July 5. The outer lanes of the Parkway will be open to vehicular traffic throughout the day.

Thursday, July 4 – Celebration of Freedom Ceremony and Parade in Independence Mall area
Chestnut Street, between 5^th and 6^th streets, will be closed to vehicular traffic, from 9:30 a.m. on July 3^rd through Saturday, July 4^th at 5 p.m.

The following closures will be in effect related to the parade (all times are approximate):

–        From 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Chestnut Street, 5^th to Front streets; 3rd Street, from Chestnut to Walnut streets, and on 4th Street, from Market to Chestnut streets.

–        From 10:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Chestnut Street, from 6^th to 9^th streets; 9^th Street, from Chestnut to Market streets and Market Street, from 9^th to Front streets; 5^th Street, from Arch to Walnut streets; 4^th Street, from Arch to Walnut streets; 3^rd Street, from Walnut to Arch streets; 8^th Street, from Arch to Walnut streets; 7^th Street, from Walnut to Arch streets; 6^th Street, from Arch to Chestnut streets; 2^nd Street, from Walnut to Arch streets; Strawberry Street, from Market to Chestnut streets, and Bank Street, from Market to Chestnut streets.

–        From 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Front Street, Dock Street, Arch Street and
the Chestnut Street viaduct, from Front to Market streets.

–        The remainder of Chestnut Street and the entire parade route will be closed to vehicular traffic prior to the parade, beginning at about 10 a.m., until after the parade concludes. All streets affected by the parade will be cleaned before being re-opened to vehicular traffic.

Thursday, July 4 – Philly 4^th of July concert & Grand Finale Fireworks in the Benjamin Franklin Parkway area
A limited-access perimeter (event participants and residents only) will be established on July 4^th –from 18^th Street to 25^th Street — and on Race Street to Pennsylvania Avenue, from 5 a.m. to midnight.

The entire width of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will be closed to vehicular traffic, from 5 a.m. to midnight.

The Parkway, from 20th to 25th streets, will be closed for extensive cleanup overnight until about
5 a.m. on Sunday, July 5^th.

All streets affected by the closures are scheduled to be reopened in the Parkway vicinity by 6 a.m. on Sunday, July 5^th.

Location

Various locations all throughout Philadelphia

Date

June 29 – July 4, 2019

Cost

FREE for most events

Web Site

• WAWA Welcome America