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Red, White, & Blue To-Do
Before July 4 was known as Independence Day, John Adams predicted the nation would celebrate the occasion on … July 2.
That’s right: The Continental Congress officially declared itself free from Great Britain on July 2, 1776, prompting Adams to predict that the day would be marked by “pomp and parade” for generations to come.
As we know, things didn’t pan out quite that way. But to fulfill Adams’ original wish, businesses and cultural institutions in Philadelphia’s Historic District celebrate with the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade each July 2, featuring a big parade and block party that include concerts, games, extended hours at historic attractions, restaurant happy hour specials and much more.
The next Red, White & Blue To-Do kicks off with a series of free events on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. Stay tuned for more about the 2026 event.
Since Philadelphia’s inaugural Red, White & Blue To-Do on July 2, 2024, museums, historic attractions and other businesses around Philadelphia’s Historic District have come together annually to celebrate the nation’s founding.
2025’s celebration is slated to be bigger and better than ever.
2025’s event begins with a flag raising with none other than Betsy herself at the Betsy Ross House, followed by a big parade leaving from the National Constitution Center.
During the parade, 13 fun and festive wagon floats — each fully decked out with iconic Philly landmarks and patriotic flair — roll through the Historic District, while drill teams, cultural dance performers and local families follow the procession.
— Photo by Shoot from Within Photography
2025’s parade route (the longest route yet) passes Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and ends on 3rd Street between Chestnut Street and Walnut Street.
Want to help create a float? The public is invited to come to the National Constitution Center for Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Days from June 28 to July 1, 2025.
At the parade’s end on 3rd Street, all visitors and spectators can join in on the fun during the All-American Block Party, in partnership with Wawa Welcome America.
Festivities include pay-as-you-go food trucks, family-friendly activities and games, special activations and extended hours at local museums and attractions, and culturally inspired music and dance performances at eight different sites.
— Photo by E. Einbender-Luks
Bookending the day of pomp and parade is Wawa Welcome America’s free Salute to Service Concert on Independence, featuring The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus, at 7 p.m. in Independence National Historical Park.
For a list of all participating museums and attractions, visit the Philadelphia Visitor Center website below.
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The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.
Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and priceless peace of mind.