July 1, 2009
July 4th Events Overview: Your Guide to Sunoco Welcome America Festivities Occurring This Weekend

There's no better place to celebrate America's Birthday than Philadelphia; Photo by G. Widman
Friday:
- All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival – Penn’s Landing, Noon – 5 pm √
Ice cream lovers can indulge in as much of their favorite cold, creamy treat as they like. Fill up with just a $5 donation to the Joshua Kahan Fund and have unlimited access to delicious flavors from Ben & Jerry’s, Häagen-Dazs, Edy’s, Breyers/Good Humor, Bassett’s, Turkey Hill, Jack & Jill, Philadelphia Water Ice and others. (Also takes place on Saturday and Sunday.)
- Pops on Independence – Independence Mall, 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. √
Come early with your blankets, chairs and picnic baskets for an evening under the stars on Independence Mall listening to the sounds of Philadelphia’s own Peter Nero and the Philly Pops.
Saturday:
- Independence Day Ceremony – Independence Hall, 10-11 am
Join Mayor Michael A. Nutter and other dignitaries at Independence Hall for a ceremony filled with performances honoring America’s 233rd birthday.
- Independence Day Parade – Historic Philadelphia, 11 am – Noon √
Back in Historic Philadelphia for the first time in 18 years, the 2009 Independence Day parade will feature a tapestry of parade elements from around the nation, including Radio Disney recording artist Joey Page, Philadelphia’s own Lauren Hart, marching bands, drum and bugle corps, re-enactment organizations, antique cars, fire departments, cultural organizations, active military, floats and more.
- Party on the Parkway – Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 12-6 pm √
The Party on the Parkway kicks off at noon, with a day-long roster of food, games, entertainment and activities for the whole family.
- Happy Birthday America – Independence Visitor Center, 12:30 pm
Sample one of Philly’s favorite treats at the Independence Visitor Center and celebrate America’s birthday in America’s birthplace!
- Bell Tapping Ceremony – Liberty Bell Center, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Gather around the Liberty Bell as descendants of those who signed the Declaration of Independence ceremonially tap the bell.
- MAIN EVENT: “Life, Liberty, and You” Concert & Fireworks – Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 8 pm √
The excitement begins when Philly’s hometown band The Roots takes the stage to show why they are unmatched when it comes to live hip hop music. Next up, Sheryl Crow woos the crowd with her hit-making sound and keeps it building right up to the jaw-dropping fireworks display that makes Philadelphia the best place to celebrate Independence Day (telecast on ABC).
√ denotes an especially not-to-be-missed event.
CLICK HERE for more information.
July 4th in Philadelphia [gophila.com]












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