Philadelphia announces road closures for Independence Day parade, concert, and fireworks events. Here’s what to know for July 4th celebrations.

As Philadelphia gears up to celebrate the Fourth of July, the city will host a series of events to mark the United States’ 249th birthday. The festivities will feature live music, parades, and fireworks, which necessitate extensive road closures in various neighborhoods, particularly from Old City to the Parkway. These events begin on Thursday, July 3, with activities culminating on July 4.

The newly renamed Philly POPS orchestra will perform at Independence National Historical Park, sharing the stage with renowned musician Ben Folds for an evening of celebratory music. The following day, residents and visitors can look forward to the traditional Salute to Independence Parade, alongside a grand concert on the Parkway headlined by popular artists including LL COOL J, Jazmine Sullivan, and JoJo. The night will conclude with spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky over the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

For those planning to attend the events or navigate around the city, it is essential to be aware of the road closures associated with these celebrations. On Thursday, July 3, several significant streets in the downtown area will be affected. Specifically, the northbound lane on Market Street between 5th and 6th Streets will close from 12 PM to 11 PM, along with all sidewalks on the north side of Market Street. Additionally, 6th Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets will be closed from 8 AM to noon for stage preparations.

On Friday, July 4, road closures will be more extensive. The Celebration of Freedom ceremony, scheduled from 8 AM to noon, will include remarks from local leaders and performances by DJs and musicians. The parade will start mid-morning, resulting in rolling closures across Old City and Center City. Notably, major segments such as 2nd to 5th Streets between Market and Walnut will be restricted, with other streets also undergoing closures during the event.

The Parkway concert on July 4 is expected to draw large crowds, with related road closures extending from 5 AM on July 4 to 2 AM on July 5. Significant streets that will be closed include sections of Ben Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and several local access routes. As the fireworks display approaches, additional safety closures will be enforced around key locations from 8 PM on July 4 until the conclusion of the event.

Citizens and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly, bearing in mind that local access for residents will be maintained where possible, though delays are expected. Public transit agency SEPTA will also be detouring multiple routes during the festivities, ensuring continued public service amidst the celebration.

As Philadelphia prepares for its vibrant Fourth of July observances, the city invites everyone to partake in the joyous spirit of independence while remaining mindful of the logistical challenges posed by the festivities.