The 11-day Welcome America Independence Day Festival is, of course, the biggest thing happening in Philly this month. In fact, Philadelphia is the destination of choice for many people travelling to celebrate the holiday. But the partying doesn't end on the 4th this month. July is filled a variety of exciting events throughout the city, like the XPoNential Music Festival for one.
Wawa Welcome America Festival
G. Widman for gptmc
When: June 24-July 4th
Where: Locations citywide
What: Don't wait until July to start celebrating the July 4th holiday. Visitors come from far and wide to take part in a full 11 days of events, beginning June 24th and culminating July 4th with a huge festival and Roots concert on the Parkway. From street festivals, to outdoor movie screenings, and of course, plenty of fireworks, here are the highlights of the 2011 Wawa Welcome America Festival.
Civil War Road Show
Civil War Roadshow
When: July 1-4, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Franklin Square
What: This impressive travleing show features exhibits and interactive displays that show how Pennsylvanians contributed to the Civil War. It makes a special stop in Philadelphia just in time for Independence Day weekend.
First Friday
When: July 1
Where: Old City (centered between Front and 3rd and Market and Vine Streets)
What: On the first Friday evening of each month, the city's art galleries open to the public, free of charge, usually from 5 until 9 p.m. People come in droves for the festive atmosphere as much as the art. Old City is the center of the action, but additional galleries and events can be found in other neighborhoods as well.
Fam Jams!
When: July 3, 1-5 p.m.
Where: Great Plaza at Penn's Landing
What: This family-oriented concert features Emily Osment from the Disney Channel, Cosy Simpson, and American Idol finalist Keith Urban, along with organized activities for kids.
Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll
When: July 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Baltimore Ave. between 42nd and 50th streets
What: Live music, performances and local businesses offer a variety of items from beer to ice cream for $1. A great event that is also affordable. Takes place every first Thursday from June-September
Q-Fest
When: July 7-18
Where: Ritz Theaters in Old City and various locations citywide
What:QFest (formerly the Philadelphia International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival) is considered the largest LGBT film festival on the East Coast and it celebrates its 17th year with an impressive array of indy films.
Blueberry Festival and Pie-Eating Contest
When: July 9, 2011, 9 a.m-6 p.m.
Where: Linvilla Orchards
What: Music, games, costumed characters, hayrides, facepainting, pony rides, pie-eating contest, and blueberries galore.
Hispanic Fiesta
When: July 9-10, 2-8 p.m.
Where: Great Plaza at Penn's Landing
What: Celebrate Hispanic culture at this fiesta which is part of the PECO Multicultural Series of summer festivals that celebrate the city's diversity. Music, food, crafts, entertainment and more.
American Cancer Society Bike-a-Thon
When: July 10
Where: Starts at Ben Franklin Bridge
What: The 39th annual ACS bike ride/fundraiser is always a huge success. The scenic and well organizaed ride raises big money for a great cause. Sing up or contribute if you can. There is a 61-mile route and a century loop (100 miles) for those who want an even bigger challenge.
Global Fusion Festival
When: July 11-17, Main Festival July 16th
Where: Great Plaza at Pennn's Landing
What: The 5th annual Global Fusion Festival celebrates "Carnival" with a full week of activitiencluding music, entertainment, and food representing a variety of world cultures.
