Stars, Stripes and Pa. Pride: Keystone State Celebrates Fourth of July

What better place to celebrate Independence Day than the state that’s known as the birthplace of independence? As Americans across the country throw hot dogs on the grill and look forward to fireworks, here are just some highlights of celebrations in Pennsylvania. 

Philadelphia – Wawa Welcome America 

The home of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Philly boasts the largest Independence Day celebration in the nation (and one of the largest free festivals in the country). 

The Wawa Welcome America festival began on Juneteenth, including festive events, live music, free museum days, parades and more. It culminates today with a free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (featuring Jazmine Sullivan and LL Cool J) and fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. 

Pittsburgh – Independence Day Celebration 

On the other side of the state, Pittsburgh celebrates the Fourth along the North Shore Riverwalk, where residents and visitors alike will find a children’s fun zone, hot air balloon, the Trulieve Veterans Wellness Row, live musical performances, food trucks and more, beginning at 4 p.m. The city will host a fireworks display later tonight. 

New Castle – Pearson Park July 4th Celebration 

Fun fact: New Castle is named the “Fireworks Capital of America ” because two large fireworks companies (Zambelli Fireworks Internationale and Pyrotecnico) started in Lawrence County in the mid-1800s. 

So, what better place to watch fireworks on the Fourth? Today, Pearson Park hosts a celebration featuring an inflatable playground, face painting, food trucks, antique firetruck rides, live music and – of course – a festive fireworks display. 

State College – Central PA 4th Fest 

Central PA 4th Fest kicks off with the Firecracker 4K run/walk and also includes the annual Firecracker Car Show, Independence Day Parade, live entertainment, food (including free hot dogs), crafts, fireworks show and more. 

Harrisburg – Food Truck Festival 

From 12 to 7 p.m., Harrisburg will host a festival with more than 40 food trucks, live music, a wine/beer garden, a roller-skating rink, line dancing, an American music icon costume contest, a petting zoo and other free, family-friendly activities. The Harrisburg Senators baseball team will play at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks at the stadium. 

Lititz – 208th July 4th Celebration 

Claiming to be “one of the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebrations in the United States,” this festival is honoring the holiday with a variety of fun activities: live performers, crafts, games, numerous food options, a baby parade, the 84th Queen of the Candles Pageant and a DJ dance party/fireworks show. 

Franklin – 4th of July Festivities 

In Venango County, Franklin’s small-town charm lights up the Fourth of July. Festivities began June 27 and culminate today with live music, food vendors and the Thunder Over Franklin fireworks show in Riverfront Park. 

Wilkes-Barre – Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration 
The Old-Fashioned Celebration will be held in Kirby Park in Wilkes-Barre with plenty of vendors for visitors to enjoy.