Get Ready for July 4th, Philadelphia!

With less than a week to go until July 4th, you are probably firming up your plans for Independence Day. In Philadelphia, there is no shortage of entertainment to be had on America’s birthday. Sure, it will be hot and the crowds will be massive, but it’s also going to be one epic party. Read on to find out more.

Your first question is undoubtedly about the main event, fireworks. Wawa will present the Welcome America! fireworks show at 9:30pm after two hours of musical performances. You need not limit your opinions to just that, however. Additional free fireworks will be visible over the Delaware River, thanks to the Freedom Festival in Camden, New Jersey. That display also starts at 9:30.

Wawa’s event will take place at 2451 Benjamin Franklin Parkway by The Oval in Philly. Headlining the event will be Mr. Worldwide (aka, Pitbull), Philly POPS BIG Band, award-winning Heather Headley, and more.

You can get your pregame on all day long during Philly’s Party on the Parkway, which ranks as one of America’s biggest free festivals. From Thrillist.com: ” Starting at noon, you can begin your whole afternoon of snacking, drinking, and zip-lining your way down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Here’s what to expect: endless nomz from 40 of Philly’s best food trucks (including Mama’s Meatballs and Joe’s Steaks), beer gardens sponsored by Barefoot Wine, musical entertainment on three stages, arts and crafts for the kiddies, an acro dunker show, a zip line… oh, and huge crowds. ”

Prime viewing spots for the fireworks can be found on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which will be closed to vehicular traffic all day. Expect to have to arrive early to stake out a good spot. For nice, grassy spots worthy of a picnic with a great view, consider the Schuylkill River Boardwalk, Kelly Drive, Paine’s Park, and the Schuylkill Banks. If you’re trying to escape the crowds, Girard Avenue bridge is a great viewing spot.