Wawa Welcome America

Wawa Welcome America Day 13: A big block party, patriotic music and fireworks

From free museums to a mega block party to a fireworks display, there were many free events to look forward to on Day 13.

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July is finally here. The Wawa Welcome America Festival continues over the weekend as we get closer to July 4th with more activities to get involved with.

From free museums to a mega block party to a fireworks display, there were many free events to look forward to on Day 13.

Pershing's Own Concert & Waterfront Fireworks

What: Attendees went to Penn's Landing on the Delaware River Waterfront to see the U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" during their patriotic concert, followed by a display of fireworks over the Waterfront.

Pershing's Own dates back more than a century, after being founded by General John J. Pershing. Rita's was founded more recently, but the Philly-area favorite is also going to be there doling out free samples of cherry lemonade water ice.

When: The concert began at 8 p.m. and concluded at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks.

Where: Penn's Landing Great Plaza, S. Columbus Boulevard & Chestnut Street 19106

Avenue of the Arts Block Party

What: Dance on over to the Avenue of the Arts block Party to experience live art, all day long.

Festivalgoers had the opportunity to watch live entertainment from world renowned artists including Tara Hendricks, Seraiah Nicole, and more. They also had a "pawsome" opportunity to meet "Gabby" from "Gabby's Dollhouse."

"Gabby" is out of the Dollhouse to bring her "On the Go" tour to a pair of Wawa Welcome America events Friday and Saturday. Philly Live's Aunyea Lachelle finds out how kids can get their "Pawsport" to the fun.

There were several activities for all ages to enjoy, including a 120-foot slide for all to slide down for free.

There was also plenty of great food.

"Grab a bite to eat from one of the many local food trucks or nearby restaurants, shop local vendors and snag free giveaways from festival sponsors," Wawa Welcome America said on its website. "There is sure to be something for everyone at this day-long block party!"

And of course, there were free samples of Rita's cherry lemonade water ice for festival goers to enjoy.

The Kimmel Center also had a preview of the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Broadway season with special performances.

When: Family and friends partied from 11 a.m. through 7 p.m. on July 1.

Where: Broad Street between Locust & Spruce Streets

Road Closure: While the event ended at 7 p.m., detours will remain until 11 p.m.

  • Broad Street between Lombard Street to Walnut Street from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Spruce Street between Watts Street to Broad Street from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Locust Street between 15th Street to Broad Street from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Free admission to Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum

What: Race over to the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum to witness a collection of racing sports cars. The museum contains over 75 historically significant cars, including the Mercedes, Ford and many more.

When: Visitors enjoyed free admission to the museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 1.

Where: 6825-31 Norwitch Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19153

Stop, drop and roll into this museum

What: Step into the Fireman’s Hall Museum to experience Philadelphia's fire history. Get the chance to watch a video of the fire boat independence while you "steer" the boat.

When: Visitors enjoyed free admission from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on July 1.

Where: 147 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Free admission to Arch Street Meeting House

What: Head over to the Arch Street Meeting House to experience a National Historic Landmark, as well as an active place of Quaker Worship. Guests can learn about the building, the grounds of Arch Street Meeting House and more.

When: Visitors enjoyed free admission from 10 a.m. and until 4 p.m. on July 1.

Where: 320 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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