When it comes to America’s 4th of July, this national holiday will get you to see a whole new side to the city of Philadelphia. The communities showcase the diverse culture and rich traditions. It’s multigenerational, with plenty of activities for the solo traveler or for groups and families of any age. This place will become a highlight of your trips across the United States.

I chose to do a workcation in Philadelphia during this period. Not only because it was my first time visiting the city but I also never had many opportunities to celebrate this holiday in another city. So it was a real treat to myself. And I was just blown away not only by the celebrations, but the history, food, and vibrant culture of Philadelphia.

*Some of these are annual events during 4th of July while others may be subject to change.

During 4th of July Week

Chinese Lantern Festival

Not related to the 4th of July, this is another part of the city’s festivities to light up the summer nights. In Franklin Park between the Historic District and Chinatown are numerous (and quite large) lantern displays to showcase the Chinese culture in a variety of different themes. All have been carefully detailed and crafted to make this visual experience so much more entertaining. Start by walking through the entrance of the Palace Lantern Corridor with dozens of colorfully decorated lanterns.

Around the park you will different paths taking you through to the other art instillations. You will see Pandas and Orangutans in their habitat of bamboo trees, mythical creatures from folklore such as dragons and castles, crane birds spreading their wings along the created riverbeds, and a row of animals representing the Chinese Zodiac. Some of these lantern installations can even be interacted with. Press the buttons and watch them light up or move and flap at your direction. It’s a wonderful time to get some fresh air, see the water fountain show, and just relax into the evening.

Wawa Welcome America Festival

This is Philadelphia’s official combination of the Juneteenth holiday and 4th of July celebration leading up to Independence Day and one of the largest festivals in the country. It’s two weeks of citywide events showcasing the historical and cultural significance of Philadelphia. You have block parties, live musical performances, interactive art installations and galleries, and just a new adventure every day.

Free Museums

There is nothing better than a free entry or pay-as-you-please to some of the best museums in the city. Perfect for budget travelers or those just looking for an impressive deal. Most of these will have select days of free admission from Juneteenth to 4th of July, extended hours, or require a pre-registration to ensure your entry. So take a look at the free museum guide and make sure to plan ahead to maximize your time.

Some museums do appreciate donations for maintenance and upkeep so keep a few dollars handy to give at the entrance for this amazing opportunity. Use the free time between the early afternoon 4th of July Parade and the evening’s outdoor concert to visit one or two of these museums. It’s a great way to pass the time and keep yourself out of the Philadelphia heat until it gets dark.

Philadelphia SIPS

You’re going to discover when you are here that some of the best food is in Philadelphia and we want to help you enjoy it at an incredible discount. During the summer starting in June to August, enjoy the long standing tradition of the SIPS in the Center City District. Every Wednesday you can find some generous happy hour prices at some of the top restaurants in Philadelphia. If you stay after happy hour you can get another discount on your dinner as well. Not to mention pop-up food vendors at three of the CCD popular parks if you want to enjoy the outdoor scenery.

It’s a great way to sample a lot of different appetizers and drinks from multiple venues to show you the different vibes in this part of the city. Be sure to plan ahead for the crowds as this is a widely popular event and seating fills up fast.

Independence National Historical Park Outdoor Concert

Grab some lawn chairs and a blanket before heading over to the lawn at Independence National Historical Park for a free concert in the evening, where you can listen to the U.S. Army Field Band & Soldier’s Chorus with special musical guests (2024 was Leann Rimes). You’ll here classic American favorites along with the soundtracks from popular patriotic movies such as The Patriot, Saving Private Ryan, and Glory. Honoring service people past and present, they play each of the armed forces military hymn’s. It’s another city tradition that draws the crowds so come early to get a good seat or you will end up standing to the side to watch.

On 4th of July

Independence Day Parade

Sleep in until the early afternoon before making your way to see the parade. It’s starts in Old City Philadelphia at Market and 2nd street before making it’s way west to end at City Hall. You have floats from organizations and civic groups, high school marching bands with dance groups, street performers, the military color guard, law enforcement, local political figures, and of course historical reenactors. Find a good spot, preferably somewhere with outdoor seating and a drink menu so you aren’t standing the entire time and can enjoy a refreshing beverage as you watch the parade march on by.

Benjamin Franklin Parkway Outdoor Concert

You will feel like the whole city is attending this finale to the 4th of July. The outdoor concert starts with pre-show live entertainment from local DJ’s to get you in the mood before the concert starts with artist performances. The lineup changes every year but you will can always expect to see some big names with classic hits. There are multiple projection screen towers placed in intervals through the parkway to watch the concert.

It’s 100% free entry, with food trucks of multiple cuisines on either side if you didn’t bring your own snacks. The only draw back is there is practically no seating and it gets crowded with spectators really fast, with a first come-first serve basis. If you aren’t bringing your own blankets or lawn chairs to relax you will either be standing up the entire time or sitting on the ground.

Fireworks Show

Finish off the night with a spectacular fireworks display. A long standing tradition is the fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art, located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. See the fireworks light up the sky in a grand-finale that is a perfect end to the Independence Day celebration. If you don’t feel like staying in this crowded area, there are rooftop bars close by that you can enjoy the fireworks from while enjoying a drink.

Conclusion

This will always be an iconic city to celebrate 4th of July. The city’s celebration of freedom is shown in all its local events, rich history, and historical landmarks. Turning a single federal holiday into a weeks long party shows the strong patriotism that defines the nickname “Birthplace of America” for Philadelphia.

Happy 4th of July!