[UPDATE]: LL COOL J will not be performing at the festival as long as union members are still on strike. The rapper voiced his solidarity with striking workers. You can read his full statement and Mayor’s response here.
Philadelphia is ready to shine this Fourth of July, and the city’s biggest celebration is going out with a bang. The Wawa Welcome America July 4th Concert & Fireworks is back. Indeed, this year’s celebration and finale promised unforgettable performances, free family fun, and the largest fireworks display in the city.
🎤 Star-Powered Performances Under the Philly Sky
Starting at 7 p.m., the Benjamin Franklin Parkway transforms into a festival of sound and pride as Hip-Hop pioneer LL COOL J brings his iconic energy to the stage, backed by legendary DJ Z-Trip.
And it wouldn’t be Philly without some hometown talent: GRAMMY® Award-winning singer Jazmine Sullivan will serenade the crowd with her powerhouse vocals.
The show is produced in partnership with Live Nation and will be broadcasted live in English on NBC10, as well as simulcast on NBC Sports Philadelphia+, COZI TV, Peacock, and other streaming platforms. So even if you’re celebrating from your backyard, you won’t miss a moment.
🎆 Fireworks, Food & Festivities for the Whole Family
Right after the concert, at 9:30 p.m., Wawa presents a dazzling fireworks finale over the Parkway that will have the whole city looking up.
However, before the sky light up, you can enjoy a full day of fun including:
- Pennsylvania Lottery Groove Stage with live music and entertainment
- Oasis Food Market with snack from Herr’s, refreshing Rita’s Italian Ice, and tasty bites from local food trucks.
- Well-being on Wheels wellness space with activities and nutrition education
- New! 21+ Beer Garden Experience featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktails and Chaddsford Wine
🆓 It’s All Free – No Ticket Needed (Except for Front Section)
Entry to the Parkway is completely FREE -no ticket required! But if you want front-row vibes, snag a ticket through:
- American Airlines Priority Ticket Giveaway via @july4thphilly on Instagram, X, or Facebook
- Bank of America’s Daily Ticket Giveaway at select Wawa Welcome America events
Gates open at 5 p.m., with secure entrances at Logan Square & 20th Street. All guests will go through metal detectors and bag checks. Be sure to travel light and arrive early!
🚧 Important Road Closures for July 4th Festivities
Plan ahead: These road closures will be in effect to ensure the safety of all guests.
From 5 a.m. July 4 to 2 a.m. July 5:
- 1900 Race Street
- 1800–1900 Vine Street
- I-676 Off/On-Ramp at 22nd Street
- I-76 EB Off-Ramp at Spring Garden Street
- Spring Garden Tunnel
- Park Towne Place (22nd–24th)
- 20th St (Arch to Pennsylvania Ave)
- 19th St (Callowhill to Cherry)
From 5 a.m. July 4 to 4 a.m. July 5:
- Benjamin Franklin Parkway (18th to Eakins Oval, all lanes)
- Eakins Oval (all lanes)
- Kelly Drive (Eakins Oval to Fairmount Ave; inbound closed at Fountain Green Drive at 5 p.m.)
- Anne d’Harnoncourt Drive (rear of Art Museum)
- 2000–2100 Winter Street
- MLK Drive (Falls Bridge to Eakins Oval)
- Spring Garden Street (Pennsylvania Ave to 31st St)
- 23rd Street (Pennsylvania Ave to Eakins Oval)
From 5 a.m. July 4 to 8 a.m. July 5:
- 22nd Street (Winter St to Pennsylvania Ave)
- 21st Street (Winter St to Pennsylvania Ave)
From 1 p.m. July 4 to 1 p.m. July 5:
- Arch to Spring Garden, 18th to 22nd (local access only)
- Arch to Fairmount, 22nd to Corinthian (local access only)
- 16th & 17th Streets (Arch to Spring Garden) — closed only if necessary
- 1600–1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway — closed only if necessary
From 8 p.m. July 4 to 1 a.m. July 5 (for fireworks):
- Kelly Drive (Fairmount to Fountain Green)
- Lemon Hill Drive
- Sedgley Drive
- Waterworks Drive
- Poplar Drive
Note: Parkway closures may start earlier based on crowd size.
🚍 Getting Around: SEPTA & Public Transit Info
SEPTA is a great way to get to and from the Parkway:
Detoured routes from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 4:
4, 5, 7, 9, 16, 17, 21, 23, 27, 31, 32, 33, 38, 42, 44, 45, 47, 47M, 48, 57, 61, 124, 125
Detoured routes from 3 p.m. July 4 to 5 a.m. July 5:
7, 32, 33, 38, 43, 48, 49
🗺️ Visit SEPTA’s website here or the most up-to-date schedules and detour info. NJ Transit riders should check their website for holiday updates.
🎇 Wrap-Up: Your July 4th Starts Here
Whether you’re coming for the music, the fireworks, the food, or the family fun- Philadelphia’s July 4th finale is where it all comes together. LL COOL J, Jazmine Sullivan, a sea of celebration, and night that ends with fireworks over the Parkway? Yes, please!
For more information, check you the official website here.