PHILADELPHIA, PA – Get ready for 16 days of free, family-friendly excitement! The Wawa Welcome America festival, Philadelphia's massive July 4th celebration, returns from June 19th to July 4th, 2025, packed with events perfect for kids of all ages and their families. From dedicated children's music festivals and lively block parties to free museum days and spectacular fireworks, there's no shortage of ways to make lasting memories.
Here are some can't-miss family highlights:
- Kidchella Music Festival (June 20th): Head to Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse for a free music festival featuring dynamic performances by acts like Ants on a Log and Noggin Hill, art stations, tasty treats, book giveaways by Sesame Place, and a kid-tastic fireworks display choreographed to Kidz Bop hits!
- Avenue of the Arts Block Party (June 21st): South Broad Street comes alive with entertainment, art, food, and a dedicated PECO Kid Zone with free book giveaways from Sesame Place.
- For the Fans Block Party (June 22nd): A new event outside Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field, featuring games, food trucks, and chances to test baseball skills at the Phillies speed pitch or soccer skills at the Philadelphia Soccer 2026 Liberty Skills Challenge.
- Cherashore Pool Party (June 24th): Celebrate the pool's season opening at Cherashore Playground with free food, a DJ, giveaways, arts & crafts, and a water slide, presented by Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital.
- Wawa Hoagie Day® (June 26th): A Philadelphia tradition! Enjoy FREE Wawa Shorti Hoagies at Independence Mall, performances by the Six String Soldiers, and free admission to the National Constitution Center all day.
- Movie on the Mall (July 1st): Enjoy a free outdoor screening of the classic film Independence Day on Independence Mall. Bring blankets and chairs!
- Salute to Independence Parade (July 4th): Experience a visual and musical extravaganza celebrating the nation, featuring floats (including a preview of a 2026 America's 250th float!), marching bands like the World Champion Reading Buccaneers, and entertainers.
- July 4th Concert & Fireworks: While the concert featuring LL COOL J and Jazmine Sullivan starts at 7 PM, families can enjoy pre-concert entertainment on the Pennsylvania Lottery Groove Stage on the Parkway from 5-7 PM, followed by Philadelphia's largest annual fireworks display.
- Free Museum Days: Throughout the 16-day festival, numerous Philadelphia museums and cultural institutions will offer free admission or pay-what-you-wish donations on select days. Check the full schedule for participating locations and times.
For all event details, schedules, and locations, visit www.july4thphilly.com. Look out for potential $25 discount ticket opportunities for specific reserved experiences by visiting: [july4thphilly.com/tickets-discount] (Note: Most Wawa Welcome America events are free and designed for families; please verify any specific ticketing for special zones on the official website).
