Philadelphia – Where Better to Celebrate the 4th of July?

Nowadays the 4th of July is an excuse to get out the barbecues, set off thousands of fireworks, and go bargain hunting at the malls. Most of us regard it as just another time to have a great time with family and friends. But in fact, the 4th of July is something more. On that day, in 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved and officially adopted the Declaration of Independence. Perhaps a few signatures still needed to be added, but that date is officially recognized as the anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.

Independence Day celebrations kick off in America’s birthplace with scores of free events lasting throughout the day. There is an Independence Day Ceremony, an Ice Cream Festival, the family-friendly festival Party on the Parkway, and concerts and fireworks. You will find many ways to celebrate the nation’s birthday while you’re here.

While you’re visiting, be sure to explore the city and its many offerings. Philadelphia has a fascinating history. It’s a city of many firsts. It was the site of the first presidential mansion. It’s home to the first public zoological gardens, founded by Benjamin Franklin. The first daily newspaper was also published here in 1784. The first American piano was constructed here in 1775, and the first computer was booted up in this city in 1946.

One attraction you may want to visit is the city hall, which is unlike any other. For one thing, it is topped by a 37-foot bronze structure of William Penn. With 642 rooms, this building is the largest city hall in the country, and no steel structure supports it. The 27-ton cast iron statue of Penn is the largest single piece of sculpture on a building.

Another must-see attraction is Independence National Historical Park. This is the most historic square mile in America. In this area, you will find several key places from America’s history. Here the Liberty Bell first rang out to summon Philadelphians to the State House yard to hear the first reading of the Declaration of Independence.

You can also visit the historic buildings of Old City, and especially along Elfreth’s Alley. This is said to be the country’s oldest residential street. Walking through the area, surrounded by cobblestone lanes and historic homes is sure to take you back through time. You’ll feel like you were living in the time when so many of our nation’s historic events occurred.

However, Philadelphia has much more to offer than just historical sites and landmarks. It offers a diverse array of cultural and culinary experiences. The city also has beautiful museums, an abundance of shopping and performing arts experiences.

This year, you can experience our nation’s birthday in a whole new way by celebrating at its birthplace. You may never think of July Fourth in the same way again.