Message from the Mayor

Welcome to Philadelphia, the very city where our nation began! We are happy to have you join us for Wawa Welcome America!, to celebrate America’s birthday in America’s birthplace.

Throughout this free, family-friendly festival from June 24 – July 4, there are so many things to see and do for people of all ages, from three spectacular fireworks displays, outdoor movies and a full-scale parade, to all all-day, free Party on the Parkway! This year’s Wawa Welcome America! Festival promises to be even bigger, better and more memorable than ever before.

Taste of Philadelphia kicks off the festival with a three-day jazz and culinary extravaganza. Acclaimed R&B, soul and gospel musicians, including the legendary Aaron Neville, will wow the crowd, and this year, Taste of Philadelphia extends onto Front Street for additional “tastes” and a stage with live performances.

For the Festival’s grand finale, world-renowned entertainment will rock the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for the largest free concert in America. Philly’s Fourth of July Jam stars The Roots with special guests Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael McDonald, Estelle, Sara Bareilles, DJ Jazzy Jeff and more. And this year, Philly’s own ?uestlove of The Roots has joined the festival as Musical Director.

In addition to Wawa Welcome America’s endless events, be sure to visit Philadelphia’s newest attractions and America’s icons. Run up the very steps that Rocky ran at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, learn about our country’s juxtaposition of slavery and freedom at the newly opened President’s House on Independence Mall, and discover enlightening exhibits at the new National Museum of American Jewish History.

So come and enjoy the birthplace of our nation and Wawa Welcome America!, and find out why Philadelphia is the best place to be during the Fourth of July.  See you there!

Michael A. Nutter

Mayor, City of Philadelphia