Welcome America, Inc. Returns and Will Include a Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Soccer Block Party

When it comes to summer time, Welcome America, Inc. has become a staple tradition offering an array of entertainment, community, and more. This year’s Welcome America looks to offer many of the fan favorites as well as new attractions and events.

New this year will be a Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Soccer 2026 a block party that will take place on June 22 outside Citizens Bank Park and Lincoln Financial Field. This new block party event is designed to underscore the anticipation and excitement leading up to 2026 – an unprecedented summer of celebration as these three organizations.

NEW

Fans can expect entertainment, a beer garden, food trucks, activities and more from 2:00pm – 6:00pm. “2026 represents a landmark year, as the city takes center stage to host events that will capture national and international attention,” said Michael Harris, Vice President of Marketing and Government Affairs of the Philadelphia Phillies. “From the MLB All-Star Game and FIFA World Cup to the broader celebration of the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase Philadelphia’s energy, passion, and pride.”

RETURNING

The Philly Pops

Announced earlier this week, the No Name Pops will take the name Philly Pops on July 1, and Welcome America for the official return of Pops on Independence as part of the festival, bringing back an over 40-year tradition. The Pops will perform for the first time under their new name on the evening of July 3, 2025 at Independence National Historical Park under newly appointed Music Director, Chris Dragon. Matthew Koveal, Executive Director of The No Name Pops, added, “We’re thrilled to reclaim our partnership with Wawa Welcome America and bring Pops on Independence back to life. This concert is a celebration of our nation’s birth, our return as the Philly Pops, and the exciting debut of our new Music Director, Chris Dragon. There’s no better way to mark a fresh chapter than with music in the heart of historic Philadelphia.”

Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta- This year the fiesta will take place at LOVE Park and will celebrate Latino culture with a day filled with music, dance, food, and community engagement, with event proceeds supporting Concilio’s Scholarship Fund.

• Saturday, June 28, 2:00pm – 9:00pm, Love Park, 16th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard

The Annual Juneteenth Block Party at the African American Museum  All are welcome to unite to celebrate freedom through live musical performances, shop Black-owned businesses, and enjoy local eateries, and experience fun for the whole family.

• Thursday, June 19, 12:00pm- 7:00pm, African American Museum in Philadelphia, 7th & Arch Street

Kidchella Music Festival – Dance, play, create. Kids of all ages can enjoy this free music festival featuring dynamic performances, art stations, mouthwatering treats, exciting giveaways, and more.

• Friday, June 20, 4:00pm-9:00pm, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive

Avenue of the Arts Block Party in partnership with the Ensemble Arts Philly — 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

Cherashore Pool Party presented by Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital – Come together with friends and family for a unique pool party and evening of fun. Celebrate the season opening of the pool at Cherashore Playground, hosted by Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital. Guests will enjoy entertainment, free food, giveaways, lawn games, local vendors, and the opportunity to learn about healthcare services and job opportunities at Jefferson Health.

• Tuesday, June 24, 4:00pm – 7:00pm, Cherashore Playground, 8th Street & Olney Avenue

Wawa Hoagie Day® — Join Wawa for historic Hoagie Day, honoring local heroes, and building and serving Wawa Shorti Hoagies. Hoagies will be served FREE at Noon along Arch Street between 5th & 6th Streets in the Independence Mall area. Guests can enjoy entertainment, along with free admission all day to the National Constitution Center courtesy of Wawa Hoagie Day.

• Thursday, June 26, 12:00pm, Arch Street between 5th & 6th Streets at Independence Mall

Gospel on Independence will return for yet another moving and soul-stirring performance on Independence Mall with Independence Hall in the background. This powerful celebration of gospel music will bring together an incredible lineup of local artists, choirs, and musicians.

• Friday, June 27, 7:00pm, Independence National Historical Park at 6th & Market Streets

Pershing’s Own: The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” Concert & Waterfront Fireworks – The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” will perform a patriotic, all-star concert followed by a thrilling fireworks display over the Delaware River Waterfront.

• Friday, June 27, 8:00pm, Delaware River Waterfront

Celebration of Black Music Month + Fireworks – Curated by Philadelphia music legend Dyana Williams, this celebration will feature multiple expressions of music pioneered by Black musicians, performed by some of Philadelphia’s most well-known and sought-after artists. Guests will be treated to music, food, and fun activities under the stars at the iconic Dell Music Center. The evening will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display.

• Sunday, June 29, 4:00pm – 9:00pm, The Dell Music Center, 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive

Red, White, & Blue To-Do – The Philadelphia Historic District partners are gearing up for the annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration, commemorating a day of “pomp and parade,” as declared by John Adams in 1776, encouraging visitors to celebrate independence in the place where it all began. A vibrant display of patriotic celebration, Red, White, & Blue To-Do features flag raisings, events at historic sites and museums, and the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade with red wagon floats and entertainment, as well as a block party, live music, happy hours, extended hours at historic attractions, and ending with a patriotic concert on Independence Mall. More details will be announced on April 8.

• Wednesday, July 2, 9:00am – 9:00pm, Historic District, various locations

Salute to Service: The United States Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus – The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus return to Independence Mall with a rousing performance honoring our Soldiers and Veterans, while showcasing the talented musicians and artists in the Army.

• Wednesday, July 2, 7:00pm, Independence National Historical Park at 6th & Market Streets

July Fourth in Philadelphia will once again begin with the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony outside of Independence Hall at 10am, followed by the Salute to Independence Parade beginning at 11am, proceeding in the exact path our founding fathers took nearly 250 years ago.

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