Queen Latifah, Idina Menzel, Eve, Kirk Franklin, Olga Tañón, and DJ Jazzy Jeff will perform at the 2026 Wawa Welcome America events leading up to the big July 4th concert which will celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.

On Monday, March 16, Wawa Welcome America announced the headliners for every concert in the 2026 festival except for the July 4th concert which will be revealed at a later date. Here’s everything you need to know.

List of performers

DJ Jazzy Jeff, the legendary hip hop producer, DJ and Philadelphia native, will headline the annual Juneteenth Block Party on June 19.

Pink Sweat$, the Philadelphia-based R&B artist will headline Philly Fair 250, a new three-day event at the festival from June 20 through June 22.

Eve, the Grammy Award-winning rapper, singer, actor and Philadelphia native will headline the Celebration of Black Music Month concert on June 25.

Olga Tañón, the Grammy and Latin Grammy award-winning singer, will headline Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta on June 27.

Kirk Franklin, the 20-time Grammy Award winning artist, songwriter, producer and gospel music icon, will headline the Gospel on Independence concert on June 28.

Trixie Mattel, the drag performer, author and recording artist, will host the Philadelphia Orchestra Free Pride Concert and Celebration on June 30.

Queen Latifah, the Grammy, Emmy, and Golden Globe award-winning rapper, musician, actress and producer will headline the U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus on July 2.

Idina Menzel, the Tony Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress will headline the Philly Pops concert on July 3.

This year’s festival will also feature the following new additions: 

Pope Leo honored at Liberty Medal ceremony

The National Constitution Center will award the 38th annual Liberty Medal to Pope Leo XIV at a public ceremony on July 3, 2026, outside the Center on Independence Mall. The award recognizes The Holy Father’s lifelong work promoting religious liberty and freedom of conscience and expression around the world, ideals enshrined by America’s founders in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Pope Leo intends to deliver live acceptance remarks virtually from the Vatican, which will be livestreamed to those in attendance on Independence Mall.

Pope Leo will accept the Liberty Medal via a live telecast available for viewers across the globe.

Philly Fair 250

This once-in-a-generation, three-day experience presented by Independence Blue Cross and produced in partnership with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation will activate the Centennial District from Saturday, June 20 to Monday, June 22 and will bring history to life through a dynamic blend of culture, cuisine, music, and adventure.

Guests can embark on a culinary journey with food trucks representing flavors from the original 13 colonies and enjoy performances from world-renowned artists alongside Philadelphia’s exceptional local talent. Saturday will feature Gerald Veasey’s Unscripted Jazz performance, and Sunday will be headlined by Philadelphia’s own  Pink Sweat$. Guests’ experience will be taken to new heights with the thrill of a spectacular trapeze attraction led by expert instructors and will be left in awe on hot air balloon rides. In honor of the 250th Anniversary, the National Liberty Museum will display a life-sized replica of the Liberty Bell for guests to engage with. Attendees will also discover interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and family-friendly activities curated by the Centennial District’s renowned cultural institutions, highlighting the innovation, artistry, and history that define this remarkable community.

Festivities on Saturday and Sunday will conclude with dazzling fireworks displays in partnership with the Science History Institute. One night will transport audiences back in time with a historically inspired exhibition— featuring the dramatic pyrotechnic burning of a temporary architectural structure, a form of entertainment that delighted crowds for centuries. The second night will showcase the evolution of the art form, building from early techniques into the breathtaking, modern fireworks displays we know and love today.

On Monday, the celebration continues with a Community Day presented by Jefferson, inviting families from across the city to enjoy an evening of activities, field games, and more as Philadelphia celebrates 250 years of the United States. 

Philadelphia Orchestra Free Pride Concert and Celebration

The Philadelphia Orchestra Free Pride Concert and Celebration on Tuesday, June 30, will feature a performance by the world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra, hosted by drag performer, author, and recording artist Trixie Mattel, best known for competing in the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race and the winner of season three of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.

Five Days of Giveaways

During the month of April, festival fans can get excited for the opportunity to win a $250 gift card to their favorite restaurant, hotel, spa, and more. Each day of the campaign, five lucky fans will be selected as winners. A full list of participating businesses will be announced on the July 4th Philly website.

Full 2026 Wawa Welcome America schedule of events *note* All locations are in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Event times and locations are subject to change

Juneteenth Block Party

Friday, June 19, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., African American Museum in Philadelphia, 7th & Arch Street 

The Annual Juneteenth Block Party at the African American Museum in Philadelphia is an unforgettable celebration of freedom and culture in partnership with Wawa Welcome America and Visit Philadelphia, Celebrate 50 years of the African American Museum this year at this Juneteenth Jubilee and enjoy live musical performances – including a headlining performance by the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff, plus shop Black-owned businesses, savor delicious local eateries, and experience fun for the whole family!

The Five Points Night Market

Wednesday, June 24, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Cottman and Rising Sun Avenue

Experience the energy of the Five Points Night Market, a vibrant celebration bringing food, music, and community pride to Rising Sun Avenue. Enjoy delicious eats from food trucks, shop local vendors, and take in live performances, summer fun, and activities for all ages—all in one lively neighborhood gathering you won’t want to miss.

Celebration of Black Music Month and Fireworks

Thursday, June 25, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., the Dell Music Center, 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive

Celebrate Black Music Month, which was founded in Philadelphia, during a special evening showcasing powerful performances honoring the excellence of women in Black music. This year’s event will feature a headlining performance by Grammy award-winning rapper, singer and actress, and native Philadelphian, Eve. The evening will conclude with a dazzling fireworks finale at the iconic Dell Music Center.

Guests are encouraged to get tickets at the Dell Box Office in advance, however guests without tickets will be admitted on a first come first serve basis while capacity allows.

Kidchella Music Festival and Fireworks

Friday, June 26, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive

Dance, play, create! Kids of all ages can enjoy this free music festival featuring dynamic performances on the Kidchella Music Stage supported by PECO, art stations, mouthwatering treats, exciting giveaways, and more! This vibrant celebration will take place on Smith’s spacious front lawn, promising a comfortable and scenic experience. It’s not just a concert; it’s a community celebration. The evening will conclude with a kid-tastic fireworks display!

Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta

Saturday, June 27, 2 p.m. – 9 p.m., LOVE Park, 16th Street & JFK Boulevard

Celebrate culture, community, and tradition at Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta at LOVE Park. Experience a high-energy festival filled with live music, including a headlining performance by Grammy Award-Winning and Latin Grammy Award-Winning Puerto Rican singer, Olga Tañón, along with dynamic dance performances, top food trucks, and family-friendly attractions that showcase the rich diversity and vibrant spirit of Philadelphia’s Hispanic community — all in the heart of the city

Patriotic Concert & Spectacular Waterfront Fireworks

Saturday, June 27, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m., Independence Blue Cross RiverRink

Celebrate summer with a high-energy patriotic concert, followed by a thrilling fireworks display over the Delaware River Waterfront. Performer to be announced.

Gospel on Independence

Sunday, June 28, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., Independence National Historical Park at 6th and Market streets

Gospel on Independence will return for yet another moving and soul-stirring performance with Independence Hall in the background. This powerful celebration of gospel music will bring together an incredible lineup of local artists, choirs, and musicians for a night of uplifting performances, plus, a headlining performance by 20-time Grammy Award-winning artist, songwriter, producer, and music icon Kirk Franklin 

Philadelphia Orchestra Free Pride Concert and Celebration

Tuesday, June 30, 7 p.m., Kimmel Center, 300 South Broad Street

Now in its fifth year, The Philadelphia Orchestra’s free Pride Concert returns in partnership with Wawa Welcome America as part of Philadelphia’s America 250 celebration. The Orchestra, led by guest conductor Carolyn Kuan, performs music by LGBTQ+ composers and allies in a fabulous celebration of unity, empowerment, and the Philadelphia region’s LGBTQ+ community.

The concert spotlights ANNA Crusis Feminist Choir, the Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, Philadelphia Voices of Pride, and the Transcendent Choir of Philadelphia, and is hosted by drag performer, author, and recording artist Trixie Mattel, best known for winning season three of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.

Arrive early for fun entertainment in the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza featuring local Philly LGBTQ+ organizations, giveaways, a drag performance showcase, and a rainbow runway

Wawa Hoagie Day

Wednesday, July 1, 12 p.m., Arch Street between 5th and 6th streets at Independence Mall

Join Wawa for historic Hoagie Day, honoring local heroes, building and serving Wawa Shorti Hoagies, and a performance by Voices of Service. Hoagies will be served FREE at Noon, on Arch Street between 5th & 6th , followed by a free concert from the U.S. Airforce Heritage of America Band on Independence Mall. Guests can also enjoy free admission all day to the National Constitution Center courtesy of Wawa.

Red, White, & Blue To-Do

Thursday, July 2, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., Historic District, various locations

The Philadelphia Historic District 250th Committee presents the 2026 Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration to take place on July 2, commemorating a day of “pomp and parade,” as declared by John Adams in 1776, encouraging visitors to celebrate independence in the place where it all began. A vibrant display of patriotic celebration, Red, White, & Blue To-Do brings together museums, historic sites, and local businesses in America’s most historic square mile to honor the nation’s founding. The day begins with bell ringings, museum and historic site openings, and a flag-raising ceremony with Betsy Ross, followed by the Red, White, & Blue To Do Pomp & Parade featuring whimsical red wagon floats, drill teams, and cultural dance troupes. As the parade concludes, free fun ensues with an All-American Block Party presented by Bank of America full of music, games, food, and family-friendly activities, plus highlights from Historic District attractions. The afternoon and evening feature a culturally diverse lineup of free street musical performances at Red, White, & Blue To-Do Independence Folk Festival at locations throughout the Historic District. The elaborate floats that will star in the The Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade will be on display during Float Fest for guests to snap their photos with. The evening also includes festive happy hour specials and extended hours and special events at historic attractions. The evening concludes with Wawa Welcome America’s Salute to Service featuring The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus on Independence Mall.

Salute to Service: The United States Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus with Headliner Queen Latifah

Thursday, July 2, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., Independence National Historical Park at 6th and Market streets 

The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus return to Independence Mall with a rousing performance honoring our Soldiers and Veterans, while showcasing the talented musicians and artists in the Army. Featuring a headlining performance by Grammy, Emmy, Golden Globe, NAACP, SAG and Critic’s Choice award-winning and Oscar-nominated musician, actress, producer, label president, author, and entrepreneur Queen Latifah. The concert will also feature a special performance by Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan.

The evening will begin with a special award ceremony in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The Wawa Foundation will present The Wawa Foundation Salute to Service Award to a USO Center and a USO volunteer who support active-duty service members and their families. Over $100,000 in USO program donations will be announced, with the Salute to Service medal awarded to the volunteer.

The Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade

Friday, July 3, 11 a.m., begins at 5th and Chestnut streets

Wawa Welcome America’s Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade is a favorite tradition of the festival every year and is returning in 2026 as the largest professionally produced Semiquincentennial celebration parade in the country. Taking place on July 3 at 11 a.m., the parade will feature 250 elements representing all 50 states and U.S. territories, including all 52 Miss America state and territory titleholders representing their home state or territory with thematic elements. The parade will also include 50 marching bands, 13 floats, military elements, special units, and historical elements, as well as international groups from countries around the globe – all traveling through the very streets where the nation’s independence was born 250 years ago.

The parade will debut an expanded route this year, beginning at 5th and Chestnut Streets and passing Independence Hall before continuing down Market Street, circling City Hall, traveling along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and around Logan Circle, and returning toward Market Street City Hall before concluding at Broad and Chestnut Streets.

38th annual Liberty Medal Ceremony

Friday, July 3, time to be announced, Independence National Historical Park at 6th & Market Streets

The National Constitution Center will award the 38th annual Liberty Medal to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at a public ceremony held on July 3, 2026, the eve of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, outside the Center on Independence Mall in Philadelphia. The award recognizes The Holy Father’s lifelong work promoting religious liberty and freedom of conscience and expression around the world, ideals enshrined by America’s founders in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Pope Leo intends to deliver live acceptance remarks virtually from the Vatican, which will be livestreamed to those in attendance on Independence Mall, as well as online via the Center’s website.

This special Liberty Medal ceremony, held in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary and semiquincentennial, is presented in partnership with the City of Philadelphia and Wawa Welcome America as part of the city’s Independence Week events celebrating the semiquincentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Villanova University also played a critical role in shaping this year’s Liberty Medal program. Pope Leo will accept the Liberty Medal via live telecast, and viewers around the globe can watch the full ceremony live.

Pops on Independence with Headliner Idina Menzel

Friday, July 3, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m., Independence National Historic Park at 6th and Market streets

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of America with the Philly Pops at Independence Mall featuring a headlining performance by Tony Award-winning, powerhouse multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter, actress, Broadway star, and philanthropist, Idina Menzel.

Enjoy a patriotic evening of live orchestral music, favorite tunes, and festive cheer in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district.

Celebration of Freedom Ceremony

Saturday, July 4, 10 a.m., Independence National Historic Park

July Fourth in Philadelphia will once again begin with the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony outside of Independence Hall at 10 a.m., honoring America’s 250th anniversary in the very place where it all happened. This ceremony will include moving speeches, powerful performances, and impactful awards.

The Wawa Foundation Hero Award will be presented again on July 4th. Since 2015 as part of this Festival, Wawa has been offering Philadelphia non-profits the opportunity to nominate their organization for grants to build stronger communities. One non-profit will receive a $50,000 grant, and three non-profits will each receive $10,000. The community will be invited to vote to determine the Hero Award top grant winner. Be part of this historic milestone in Philadelphia’s iconic historic district!

July 4th Concert and Fireworks

Time to be announced, Benjamin Franklin Parkway

The grand finale of the Wawa Welcome America festival is the July 4th Concert + Fireworks on the evening of July 4. Enjoy an unforgettable night of world-class musical performances, followed by a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the city skyline — an iconic celebration in the birthplace of America. Headlining performers to be announced.