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How Philadelphia threw America a 250th birthday party to remember

Will Smith, a heat wave, and a World Cup match.

News

Triple-digit heat. A canceled parade. An evacuation of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. None of it could spoil Philadelphia&#x27;s party for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America&#x27;s 250th birthday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/01/philly-is-taking-center-stage-for-americas-250th-birthday" data-vars-content-id="f012f8f7-25a2-435a-ae61-c811f4933a5f" data-vars-headline="How Philadelphia threw America a 250th birthday party to remember" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/01/philly-is-taking-center-stage-for-americas-250th-birthday" target="_self">America&#x27;s 250th birthday</a>.Why it matters: The nation&#x27;s birthplace delivered the kind of weekend only Philly could — reminding the country that Philadelphia remains at the heart of the American story.

This is what Pennsylvania included in America's Time Capsule

The time capsule will be buried at Independence National Historical Park on July 4.

Culture

Pennsylvania&#x27;s message to future generations gets buried this weekend inside <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="America&#x27;s Time Capsule" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/02/27/america-is-burying-a-time-capsule-in-philly-for-the-nations-250th-birthday?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_campaign=national&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23909507513&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACBUgDQ1LuDXn6oQr5u9EId2Z71yO&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw0o3SBhBVEiwAh28-jWEuf9nkGf3ztBzUsgUIqnnyhx-uZmnDEVC31SVKAlRiWqYsz4kCyRoCMNMQAvD_BwE" data-vars-content-id="97e5e1d0-859b-42a2-8374-50ebf2485135" data-vars-headline="This is what Pennsylvania included in America&#x27;s Time Capsule" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/02/27/america-is-burying-a-time-capsule-in-philly-for-the-nations-250th-birthday?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_campaign=national&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23909507513&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACBUgDQ1LuDXn6oQr5u9EId2Z71yO&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw0o3SBhBVEiwAh28-jWEuf9nkGf3ztBzUsgUIqnnyhx-uZmnDEVC31SVKAlRiWqYsz4kCyRoCMNMQAvD_BwE" target="_self">America&#x27;s Time Capsule</a> at Philly&#x27;s Independence National Historical Park.Why it matters: The steel capsule — which includes hundreds of letters and artifacts from all 56 states, D.C., and territories — is part of the country&#x27;s 250th anniversary festivities intended to give future Americans an authentic record of 2026 life.<ul><li>The time capsule will remain sealed until America&#x27;s 500th birthday in 2276. </li></ul>State of play: Pennsylvania&#x27;s two contributions to the time capsule are bureaucratic and, well, a bit uninspiring: <ul><li>✉️ A letter from Gov. Josh Shapiro, titled &quot;Greetings from Harrisburg.&quot;</li><li>📙 A booklet listing several of the state&#x27;s 250th anniversary commemorations. </li></ul>How it works: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Some of the content" data-vars-click-url="https://america250.org/news/america250-officially-seals-americas-time-capsule-and-reveals-final-contents-ahead-of-july-4-burial-in-philadelphia/" data-vars-content-id="97e5e1d0-859b-42a2-8374-50ebf2485135" data-vars-headline="This is what Pennsylvania included in America&#x27;s Time Capsule" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://america250.org/news/america250-officially-seals-americas-time-capsule-and-reveals-final-contents-ahead-of-july-4-burial-in-philadelphia/" target="_blank">Some of the content</a> for the time capsule was selected by America250, the Congress-approved organization planning this and other anniversary events.<ul><li>But the bulk of the items in the capsule were determined by the states and territories.</li></ul>Zoom in: Some states sent a bunch of stuff.<ul><li>For example: New Mexico included a Pueblo seed pot, vial of sand from the White Sands National Park, a silver squash blossom necklace, bolo tie and recipe card for biscochito, the state&#x27;s official state cookie. </li></ul>Meanwhile, other notable contributions include a whale bone from Maine, a copper ingot from Arizona, a diamond from Arkansas, and beaded artwork from Montana.What&#x27;s next: America250 will bury the time capsule at Independence National Historical Park on Saturday, July 4 at 8:30am. 💭 Mike&#x27;s thought bubble: Seems like Pennsylvania really phoned this one in. <ul><li>Let&#x27;s hope that future generations think of Pennsylvania in 2026 as more than a little letter and booklet. </li></ul><h2 class="text-h6 !font-sans !font-normal !leading-[1.2em]">🗣️ Your take</h2>What do you think Pennsylvania should have buried in America&#x27;s Time Capsule? Send your suggestions to philadelphia@axios.com.

Welcome America CEO Michael DelBene exits after July 4 festival

DelBene's exit comes days after the city held its biggest-ever festival on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Michael DelBene is out as CEO of Welcome America, a surprising shakeup coming just days after Philly celebrated its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest-ever festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/05/philadelphia-july-4-concert-fireworks-will-smith-meek-mill" data-vars-content-id="13655c26-1f16-4f76-a980-fb259809415e" data-vars-headline="Welcome America CEO Michael DelBene exits after July 4 festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/05/philadelphia-july-4-concert-fireworks-will-smith-meek-mill" target="_self">biggest-ever festival</a> for the nation&#x27;s 250th birthday.Why it matters: DelBene was instrumental in helping plan two of the city&#x27;s biggest events this year: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="FIFA Fan Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/19/world-cup-fan-festival-details" data-vars-content-id="13655c26-1f16-4f76-a980-fb259809415e" data-vars-headline="Welcome America CEO Michael DelBene exits after July 4 festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/03/19/world-cup-fan-festival-details" target="_self">FIFA Fan Fest</a> and the Fourth of July festivities on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Philly is taking center stage for America's 250th birthday

A massive Fourth of July party. A World Cup knockout match. And one huge stress test for the Parker administration.

Philadelphia is acting as the &quot;drum major&quot; of the nation&#x27;s 250th birthday, throwing its biggest-ever party on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway this weekend.Why it matters: Years in the making, the signature event — paired with a same-day World Cup knockout match — will test even the city that birthed democracy and could define Mayor Cherelle Parker&#x27;s first term.

RockyFest's triumphant return in 2026

Tourism officials have renewed excitement planning "RockyFest 50."

RockyFest isn&#x27;t down for the count — it&#x27;s come back with an even more powerful punch.Why it matters: After a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="yearlong hiatus" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/03/scoop-rockyfest-2025-canceled-rocky-balboa-sylvester-stallone" data-vars-content-id="8fc07748-1a74-4d6e-84b6-475756fbed2f" data-vars-headline="RockyFest&#x27;s triumphant return in 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2025/12/03/scoop-rockyfest-2025-canceled-rocky-balboa-sylvester-stallone" target="_self">yearlong hiatus</a>, Philly tourism officials are answering the bell like only Philly&#x27;s greatest fighter would: with plans for an even bigger bash marking the film&#x27;s 50th anniversary.

Philadelphia's blockbuster events year rolls on

World Cup crowds were just the beginning. Here's what's coming to Philly later this year.

Things to Do

We&#x27;re halfway through Philadelphia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="blockbuster events year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/04/16/philly-flyers-sixers-playoffs-ufc-sports-year" data-vars-content-id="38df3483-9751-4cf5-9bc3-aa350c104a3e" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia&#x27;s blockbuster events year rolls on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/04/16/philly-flyers-sixers-playoffs-ufc-sports-year" target="_self">blockbuster events year</a> — and more crowds are coming.Why it matters: If the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/15/ecuador-ivory-coast-world-cup-philly-first-match" data-vars-content-id="38df3483-9751-4cf5-9bc3-aa350c104a3e" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia&#x27;s blockbuster events year rolls on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/15/ecuador-ivory-coast-world-cup-philly-first-match" target="_self">World Cup</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="matches" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/22/philly-goes-bleu" data-vars-content-id="38df3483-9751-4cf5-9bc3-aa350c104a3e" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia&#x27;s blockbuster events year rolls on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/22/philly-goes-bleu" target="_self">matches</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fourth of July parties" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/05/philadelphia-july-4-concert-fireworks-will-smith-meek-mill" data-vars-content-id="38df3483-9751-4cf5-9bc3-aa350c104a3e" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia&#x27;s blockbuster events year rolls on" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/05/philadelphia-july-4-concert-fireworks-will-smith-meek-mill" target="_self">Fourth of July parties</a> wore you out, pop an Advil. Philly&#x27;s calendar is just heating up.

Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more

Fill up your weekend social calendar with these popular events.

🎥 You still have a couple more chances to check out <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Philadelphia Film Society&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://july4thphilly.com/event/free-movie-days/" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://july4thphilly.com/event/free-movie-days/" target="_blank">Philadelphia Film Society&#x27;s</a> free movie days: &quot;Mean Girls&quot; is playing Thursday and Independence Day on Friday.🎭 It&#x27;s your last chance to check out &quot;Dear Evan Hansen,&quot; the six-time Tony Award-wining show the follows the journey of a high school senior who suffers from social anxiety.<ul><li>The Washington Post called the show &quot;outrageously reckless.&quot; Runs through Sunday. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets:" data-vars-click-url="https://purchase.ardentheatre.org/ChooseSeats/41407" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://purchase.ardentheatre.org/ChooseSeats/41407" target="_blank">Tickets:</a> $43-$76</li></ul>🐅 Use the code 4JULY25 to get 25% off admission to the<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" Philadelphia Zoo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/visit/?utm_medium=paid-search&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_campaign=philadelphia-zoo-2026-brand&amp;utm_content=general&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23657327464&amp;gbraid=0AAAAApFDePB8-oFf8h7EUOqyLdsXrubDR&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw9ZLSBhCcARIsAEhGKgPf14RuHTnYrKdX_WmWOMowS8gWg1hsLqzu-xp8p5qCxASkGDwU5PAaAqImEALw_wcB" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/visit/?utm_medium=paid-search&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_campaign=philadelphia-zoo-2026-brand&amp;utm_content=general&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23657327464&amp;gbraid=0AAAAApFDePB8-oFf8h7EUOqyLdsXrubDR&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw9ZLSBhCcARIsAEhGKgPf14RuHTnYrKdX_WmWOMowS8gWg1hsLqzu-xp8p5qCxASkGDwU5PAaAqImEALw_wcB" target="_blank"> Philadelphia Zoo</a> through July 5.<ul><li>While you&#x27;re there, stop by the new $25 million Francis J. Carey Bear Country to meet Turbo and Alba, a pair of Andean bears relocated from San Diego.</li></ul>🇺🇲 John Adams thought Americans would celebrate Independence Day on July 2 — the day the Continental Congress voted to break from Great Britain.<ul><li>And Philadelphia&#x27;s Historic District agrees: It&#x27;s honoring history with its annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Red, White, &amp; Blue To-Do" data-vars-click-url="https://www.phlvisitorcenter.com/red-white-blue-to-do-philadelphia-pa" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.phlvisitorcenter.com/red-white-blue-to-do-philadelphia-pa" target="_blank">Red, White, &amp; Blue To-Do</a>, featuring a patriotic parade, live music, family activities and extended hours at historic sites. Various sites through the city. Thursday, 7am-10pm</li></ul>🎺 The U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers&#x27; Chorus takes the stage at Independence Hall on Thursday at 8pm for patriotic music honoring service members and veterans.<ul><li>Queen Latifah headlines the free concert, joined by a special appearance from Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan.</li></ul>🎖️Tour Fort Mifflin, one of America&#x27;s oldest military bases. It&#x27;s where colonial troops beat back the British Navy and fended off 2,000 Redcoats while George Washington withdrew from Valley Forge. Friday, 10am-4pm. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets: " data-vars-click-url="https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/fortmifflinonthedelaware/fourth-at-the-fort-669357977" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/fortmifflinonthedelaware/fourth-at-the-fort-669357977" target="_blank">Tickets: </a>$17.32.🥁 In the lead-up to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nation&#x27;s biggest Fourth of July celebration" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/01/philly-is-taking-center-stage-for-americas-250th-birthday" data-vars-content-id="3597e17f-5c0d-4b39-af0d-1bc74c3a6cf6" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Fourth of July festivities, movies and more" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/07/01/philly-is-taking-center-stage-for-americas-250th-birthday" target="_self">nation&#x27;s biggest Fourth of July celebration</a>, take the kids to the annual parade. It kicks off at noon Friday at 5th and Chestnut streets.<ul><li>Expect more than 40 marching bands and 19 floats, plus military marchers, dancers and more.</li></ul>

How Philly's "pigeon people" turned a pet bird into a walking tour

Their motto is simple: "Pigeon haters welcome."

Philly&#x27;s &quot;pigeon people&quot; want to change your mind about one of the world&#x27;s most maligned birds.Why it matters: Aspen Simone and Hannah Michelle Brower — often spotted carrying their pet pigeon, Primrose, around town in a transparent backpack — have created a walking tour that challenges the &quot;rats with wings&quot; stereotype and traces the birds&#x27; surprising history.

Meet Philly's newest museum: Historic First Bank of the U.S.

It's just in time for this summer's big 250th anniversary events.

The First Bank of the United States reopens Wednesday after a $43 million restoration.Why it matters: Visitors can add the historic landmark to their already-packed <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="250th anniversary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="dbf051dd-fa95-4dd2-b049-3b16999743eb" data-vars-headline="Meet Philly&#x27;s newest museum: Historic First Bank of the U.S." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">250th anniversary</a> bucket list.

Philadelphia weekender: Concerts, fireworks and Kidchella

🚨 New exhibit alert! <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Revisit 1876" data-vars-click-url="https://centercityphila.org/press-release/revisit-1876-exhibition-coming-to-lits-building/" data-vars-content-id="225a3234-120e-4431-b028-218d442f5fb4" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Concerts, fireworks and Kidchella" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://centercityphila.org/press-release/revisit-1876-exhibition-coming-to-lits-building/" target="_blank">Revisit 1876</a> debuts today at the Lits Building at 8th and Market Streets, reflecting back on Philly&#x27;s 1876 World&#x27;s Fair with artifacts and stories. On view through November. 🎆 Music and fireworks are on tap at the Dell Music Center tonight starting at 7pm. Philly-native and Grammy-winning singer Eve is headlining the free <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wawa Welcome America concert" data-vars-click-url="https://july4thphilly.com/event/celebration-of-black-music-month-and-fireworks/" data-vars-content-id="225a3234-120e-4431-b028-218d442f5fb4" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Concerts, fireworks and Kidchella" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://july4thphilly.com/event/celebration-of-black-music-month-and-fireworks/" target="_blank">Wawa Welcome America concert</a>.

Meek Mill to take the stage at Philly's July 4 concert

The party on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will be the place to celebrate Independence Day.

Meek Mill will join a star-studded lineup taking the stage at Philadelphia&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fourth of July concert" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/21/fourth-of-july-concert-christina-aguilera-jill-scott-will-smith" data-vars-content-id="21bee2e9-4bee-4fff-83f9-16ceef5355ea" data-vars-headline="Meek Mill to take the stage at Philly&#x27;s July 4 concert" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/21/fourth-of-july-concert-christina-aguilera-jill-scott-will-smith" target="_self">Fourth of July concert</a>.Why it matters: The party on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will be the place to celebrate Independence Day and America&#x27;s 250th anniversary.

Cocktails and Congress keep Philly's 250th celebrations rolling

Historic Philadelphia has launched two new ways to party like a patriot.

Philly&#x27;s got a couple new after-dark options for people looking to extend the 250th birthday party in the U.S.A. a little longer.Why it matters: In the cradle of democracy, the celebration doesn&#x27;t stop when the big candle in the sky goes down.

Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival

🎥 The two-day <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="United We Heal Film Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://unitedwehealfilmfestival.com/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://unitedwehealfilmfestival.com/" target="_blank">United We Heal Film Festival</a> kicks off Thursday at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Underground Arts" data-vars-click-url="https://undergroundarts.org/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://undergroundarts.org/" target="_blank">Underground Arts</a>, showcasing nearly a dozen filmmakers of color, with works ranging from debut shorts to documentaries. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://blacksoulsummer.com/events/unitedwehealfilmfestival-june19/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://blacksoulsummer.com/events/unitedwehealfilmfestival-june19/" target="_blank">Tickets</a>: $30-$65.🇺🇲 Celebrate <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Women of the 18th Century" data-vars-click-url="https://historicphiladelphia.org/events/meet-the-women-of-the-18th-century/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://historicphiladelphia.org/events/meet-the-women-of-the-18th-century/" target="_blank">Women of the 18th Century</a> at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Betsy Ross House" data-vars-click-url="https://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/" target="_blank">Betsy Ross House</a>. The four-month series focuses on the women of the American Revolution, including icons like Susanna Cooke, Peggy Chew and Hannah Till. <ul><li>Runs every Thursday-Sunday from 11am-3pm.</li></ul>⚽ Refill your World Cup on Friday at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="East Passyunk Avenue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visiteastpassyunk.com/events/world-cup-block-party-1700-block" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visiteastpassyunk.com/events/world-cup-block-party-1700-block" target="_blank">East Passyunk Avenue</a> block party, which will have jumbo screens for the Brazil-Haiti match, plus food, street vendors and a night of all-out fun. Runs from 7-11pm.The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wawa Welcome America" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/01/wawa-welcome-america-philly-july-4-concert-fireworks" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/01/wawa-welcome-america-philly-july-4-concert-fireworks" target="_self">Wawa Welcome America</a> festival kicks off Friday with 16 days of fun, starting with a Juneteenth Jubilee from noon-5pm at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="African American Museum in Philadelphia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.aampmuseum.org/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.aampmuseum.org/" target="_blank">African American Museum in Philadelphia</a>.<ul><li>Expect live performances from hip-hop pioneers Slick Rick and Doug E Fresh, plus DJ Jazzy Jeff, as well as food trucks and plenty of goodies to purchase from Black vendors.</li></ul>🇭🇹 The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Philly Caribbean Carnival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/phillycaribbeancarnival/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/phillycaribbeancarnival/?hl=en" target="_blank">Philly Caribbean Carnival</a> takes over Philly for two days of fun, starting with Friday night&#x27;s World Cup watch party.<ul><li>Then on Saturday, Fairmount Park will be filled with the sounds of reggae. 10am-6pm at Chamounix Drive.</li></ul>🎈 Dad, can we go to the Chester County Balloon Festival? The three-day celebration kicks off Friday at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ludwig&#x27;s Corner Horse Show Ground" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ludwigshorseshow.com/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ludwigshorseshow.com/" target="_blank">Ludwig&#x27;s Corner Horse Show Ground</a>, and includes tethered balloon rides, pilot briefings and more. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ccballoonfest.com/tickets.html" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ccballoonfest.com/tickets.html" target="_blank">Tickets</a>: $28.52, free for children under 6.🎤 Ambler turns Butler Avenue into a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="two-day block-party" data-vars-click-url="https://amblerfest.org/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://amblerfest.org/" target="_blank">two-day block-party</a> blowout this weekend, with 12 straight hours of live music, food trucks and Forest &amp; Main pours.<ul><li>Expect Billy Joel bangers, a 10-piece horn band, and a town backstory with actual 1850s hero energy. Click <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="here" data-vars-click-url="https://amblerfest.org/2026-music-fest/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://amblerfest.org/2026-music-fest/" target="_blank">here</a> for the full schedule.</li></ul>🥇 Check out this week&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Firstival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visitphilly.com/52-weeks-of-firsts/" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visitphilly.com/52-weeks-of-firsts/" target="_blank">Firstival</a>, a celebration of the first Annual Reminder demonstration, when thousands of gay rights activists gathered at Independence Hall. Saturday, 11am-1pm.🍨 Sundae Philly returns to Schuylkill Yards&#x27; Gather Food Hall on Sunday for an open-air dance party running from 4–10pm with sets from Grammy-nominated DJ Terry Hunter, Francisco Collazo, Lee Jones, Musho and more.<ul><li>The family-friendly event will also feature food and drinks from Gather&#x27;s vendors and Bulletin Bar. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Tickets" data-vars-click-url="https://ra.co/events/2442706" data-vars-content-id="7cfe8b22-10b2-4c65-adf1-1f35de964871" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia weekender: Juneteenth Jubilee, Chester County Balloon Festival" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://ra.co/events/2442706" target="_blank">Tickets</a>: $23.</li></ul>

You can rent a Maserati in Philly for $23 a day — if you're fast enough

The luxury car flex is one way of keeping the Italian spirit alive in this year's World Cup.

Italy isn&#x27;t playing in this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/15/ecuador-ivory-coast-world-cup-philly-first-match" data-vars-content-id="8fa0273f-6223-47b7-a8e0-067f216e2170" data-vars-headline="You can rent a Maserati in Philly for $23 a day — if you&#x27;re fast enough" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/06/15/ecuador-ivory-coast-world-cup-philly-first-match" target="_self">World Cup</a>, but its legendary cars are making an appearance in Philly.Why it matters: The luxury car flex is one way of keeping the Italian spirit alive in this year&#x27;s tournament since the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="four-time champs" data-vars-click-url="https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-italy-isnt-2026-fifa-145235420.html" data-vars-content-id="8fa0273f-6223-47b7-a8e0-067f216e2170" data-vars-headline="You can rent a Maserati in Philly for $23 a day — if you&#x27;re fast enough" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-italy-isnt-2026-fifa-145235420.html" target="_blank">four-time champs</a> haven&#x27;t been in the field since 2014.

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