Philadelphia is the place to be for family travelers in 2026. The historic city takes center stage this year in celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary.
The city’s annual July 4 celebration, Wawa Welcome America, hosts special programming and historic events during the 16-day festival. For the first time, the festival hosts six nights of fireworks on select dates leading up to a grand finale on July 4. Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade takes place July 3 at 11 a.m. This year’s event will feature an expanded parade route as well as 250 elements representing all 50 states, including Miss America titleholders, marching bands and military representatives.
© Welcome America, Inc
Popular returning events include the Annual Juneteenth Block Party at African American Museum, Wawa Hoagie Day, Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta, Free Museum Days and Gospel on Independence.
On July 4, festivities kick off with the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony at 10 a.m. outside of Independence Hall. The party continues on Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the July 4 concert at 7 p.m., followed by a fireworks spectacular at 10 p.m.
Schedules and programming are subject to change. Check back over the next few months for updates.
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