Philadelphia, PA

Independence Day is an important holiday in our country, but it also holds a special significance to Philadelphia. If you all remember back to 3rd grade history class, you’ll recall that the Declaration of Independence was signed at Independence Hall, then known as the Pennsylvania State House. All this week, I’ll be providing you historic information on Philadelphia, and the roll it played in bringing about our nation’s independence.

Photo credited to Britannica.com

But first, I’ll provide you with this week’s calendar of events.

Sunoco Welcome America
From History and culture to food and entertainment, Sunoco presents the week long Welcome America celebration. It started June 28th and continues up to the 4th of July.
Sun the 1st is the Fair on the Square, and all day event with food and amusement activities in Rittenhouse Square.
July 2nd, the Kimmel center invits you to Go 4th and Learn; explore a world of music with interactive games and activities.
On July 3rd, the place to be is on the Avenue of the Arts, for live music, food, FREE salsa lessons, and more!
and of course, july 4th… there will be cake at the National Constitution Center at noon, a parade starting at 7pm, and concerts with fireworks starting at 8:30 pm.
Click here for a full list of Welcome America events.

Other Events
The City Tavern in Old City, was the site of the first 4th of July celebration. This year, you can continue the tradition with all day festivities and culinary delights.

July 5th, the fireworks may be over, but the fun isn’t. From July 4th thru July 8th, Shove Productions Presents the 2nd Annual BROTHERLY SHOVE FEST - “SO CALLED INDIE NIGHT” at the Trocadero Theater(1003 Arch Street). Tickets are $14 adv./ $16 day of show, doors open at 6 pm.

July 6th marks the first Friday in July, as well as First Friday at the galleries of Philadelphia, from 5pm-9pm. First Friday is an on-going event on the first friday of every month (as if it wasn’t obvious), where 40-plus galleries around the city open their doors to art lovers abound. Free food & drink and a sociable atmosphere, much like an opening night in SoHo, only better. Most galleries can be found in Old City between Front and Third, and Market and Vine Streets, which is where i usually hang hit up.

And now for an event you won’t find on the tourist sites. Making Time, with Simian Mobile Disco. Making Time is a dance party event started by Dave Pianka 7 years ago. “It was meant to be a one-off. My goal was to have a great party and make people freak out,” said Pianka. You too can “freak out” from 9 pm- 3:30 am this friday, Jul. 6th, at Pure nightclub. Maybe I’ll see you there!

Independence Hall, 4th of July, Welcome America, The City Tavern, First Friday, Making Time, Simian Mobile Disco, Pure Night Club