Welcome America, Inc. Announces New Programming & Returning Traditions for 2025 Festival

PHILADELPHIA, April 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Welcome America, Inc. announced new additions and returning traditions for Wawa Welcome America, Philadelphia's annual July Fourth celebration. New programming includes the return of the Philly Pops, a partnership with the Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Soccer, and returning traditions like Concilio's Hispanic Fiesta – with a new location at LOVE Park– and other beloved traditions like the Juneteenth Block Party, Wawa Hoagie Day, and the July 4^th Concert and Fireworks.

Recently announced, the No Name Pops will take the name Philly Pops on July 1 and will hold their first performance as the Philly Pops during the festival, with the return of Pops on Independence, bringing back an over 40-year tradition. The Pops will perform on July 3 at Independence National Historical Park under new Music Director, Chris Dragon.

Welcome America is excited to partner with the Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Soccer 2026 for a block party on June 22 outside Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field. This event will underscore the anticipation and excitement leading up to 2026 and America's 250^th. Fans can expect entertainment, a beer garden, food trucks, and more from 2:00pm – 6:00pm.

Returning Fan-Favorite Events

Concilio's Hispanic Fiesta in its new location, LOVE Park, is one of Philadelphia's largest celebrations of Latino culture, bringing together families, friends, and visitors for a day of music, dance, food, and community.
Saturday, June 28, 2:00pm - 9:00pm, Love Park, 16th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard 

The Juneteenth Block Party is an unforgettable celebration of freedom and culture through live performances and opportunities to shop Black-owned businesses and savor local eateries.
Thursday, June 19, 12:00pm- 7:00pm, African American Museum in Philadelphia, 7th & Arch Street

Kidchella Music Festival –Kids of all ages can enjoy dynamic performances, art stations, mouthwatering treats, giveaways, and a kid-tastic fireworks display!
Friday, June 20, 4:00pm-9:00pm, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive

Avenue of the Arts Block Party — The Avenue of the Arts comes to life with high-powered entertainment from local and world-renowned performers, art, food and more.
Saturday, June 21, 12:00pm-6:00pm, South Broad and Spruce Streets

Wawa Hoagie Day® — Honoring local heroes, historic Hoagie Day offers guests FREE Wawa Shorti Hoagies, lively entertainment, and free admission all day to the National Constitution Center courtesy of Wawa.
Thursday, June 26, 12:00pm, Arch Street between 5th & 6th Streets at Independence Mall

Gospel on Independence – This celebration of gospel music will bring together an incredible lineup of local artists for a rousing night of soul-stirring performances.
Friday, June 27, 7:00pm, Independence National Historical Park at 6th & Market Streets

Celebration of Black Music Month + Fireworks – This celebration of Black Music Month, founded in Philadelphia, will feature expressions of music pioneered by Black musicians.
Sunday, June 29, 4:00pm - 9:00pm, The Dell Music Center, 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive

Salute to Service: The United States Army Field Band & Soldiers' Chorus - Enjoy a patriotic performance honoring Soldiers and Veterans on Independence Mall.
Wednesday, July 2, 7:00pm, Independence National Historical Park at 6th & Market Streets

July Fourth in Philadelphia will again begin with the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony outside of Independence Hall at 10am, followed by the Salute to Independence Parade beginning at 11am.

And in the evening of July 4^th, the grand finale returns to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with a star-studded concert, broadcast live on NBC10, followed by a dazzling fireworks show to cap off the day and 16 full days of celebrations.

More details & talent announcement to come in May!

Media Contact:
Emily Uliano
(215) 284-9701

SOURCE Welcome America, Inc.