When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, it’s no surprise that Philadelphia goes all out. Our city is where it (read: the country) all began, so we have some serious historical cred boosting our birthday festivities.
Over more than two weeks, dozens of fabulous (and many free!) events span the city during Wawa Welcome America (June 19 to July 4, 2023). The culmination on the evening of Tuesday, July 4, is a massive free concert featuring superstars Demi Lovato and Ludacris on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, followed by a dazzling fireworks display (because candles just won’t cut it here) over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
But the red, white and blue celebration kicks off well before July 4. Beginning on June 19, the 16-day Wawa Welcome America festival offers a slew of events commemorating both Juneteenth and the Fourth of July. For the third year running, the festival’s programming showcases different perspectives on the meaning of independence in the U.S.
Other highlights to look out for: multiple fireworks shows over the Delaware River, free admission to more than 30 museums on select days, a wide range of musical performances, the annual Wawa Hoagie Day on Independence Mall and more.
Read on for our guide to July Fourth celebrations — from Juneteenth to Independence Day — in Greater Philadelphia for 2023.
Note: This article is arranged chronologically by section.
