July 2 will be a day of ‘pomp and parade’ as envisioned by John Adams

Festivities include musical performances, Old City restaurant specials, more

PHILADELPHIA, PA  - Philadelphia Historic District partners today announced plans for the first-ever Red, White, & Blue To-Do celebration for July 2, 2024, 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 will bring together museums, historic sites, and local businesses in America’s most historic square mile to honor our nation’s founding. This monumental occasion promises to be a memorable experience for all, featuring the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade, festooned decor, concerts, games, extended visitation hours at area historic attractions, restaurant specials, and much more.

“Red, White, & Blue To-Do highlights the significance of Philadelphia’s historical landmarks and institutions—it’s a testament to our shared commitment to preserving and promoting our legacy as the birthplace of our nation,” said Vince Stango, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Constitution Center.

“All of the partners in Philadelphia’s Historic District are coming together to celebrate and welcome everyone for a memorable day and night,” said Amy Needle, President and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, Inc. “The Red, White, & Blue To-Do will debut this summer and continue to get bigger and more joyful each July 2 through 2026 and beyond, creating memories for residents and visitors.”

As a city steeped in history and culture, we are thrilled to host this grand-scale celebration of our nation’s independence,” said Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director of Special Events, City of Philadelphia. “Red, White, & Blue To-Do is an opportunity for all to experience the historic character of our city while enjoying the modern amenities of award-winning restaurants and charming shops throughout Old City.”

Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Days

To prepare for this historic celebration, the District will have Red, White, & Blue To-Do Decorating Days from June 29 -July 1, 2024, 11 am – I2 pm. Wagon Decorating will take place at the National Constitution Center, free and open to the public. Anyone can help create one of the official wagon “floats” for the Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade.

Decoration Stations will be available at each of the Philadelphia Historic District attractions and partner organizations for visitors to festoon themselves for the parade.

The District itself will get a boost of bunting, balloons, and begonias to bring a festive atmosphere throughout Independence Week.

Red, White, & Blue To-Do Schedule of Events – Tuesday, July 2, 2024

9-11 am: The fun begins with flag raisings, museums and historic sites openings, special recognitions, and Children’s Naturalization Ceremony at the Betsy Ross House (9 am)

11am: Red, White, & Blue To-Do Pomp & Parade kicks off at the National Constitution Center, traveling along Independence Mall (Pre-registration to march in the Pomp & Parade is required. Stay tuned to the website for information.)

11 am–3 pm: Welcome America’s Go 4th & Learn: Carpenters’ Hall 250th Anniversary

12 pm: Parade arrives at the end point at Carpenters’ Hall

12-2 pm: Independence Barbeque with lunch specials throughout Old City

2-5 pm: Musical performances at four locations throughout the Historic District (Arch Street Meeting House, African American Museum in Philadelphia, National Liberty Museum, and Elfreth’s Alley)*

4 - 7 pm: Extended hours and special events at various historic sites and food and drink specials throughout Old City  

*Philadelphia Historic District will come to life with a carefully curated lineup of musical street performances in four locations on the afternoon of July 2. The confirmed artists to date include (with more to be announced soon):

• Mad Beatz Philly (hip-hop-inspired drumlines)
• Callahan, McComiskey & Kelly (Irish)
• Los Bomberos de la Calle (bomba y plena)
• Rubble City String Band (old-time)
• Dan Blacksberg’s Freilachs Music (Klezmer)

Special thanks to The Weitzman Museum’s Director of Public Programs, Dan Samuels, for creating this diverse representation of  communities that enrich our city and nation.

For updated schedules and participating attractions, visit https://www.phlvisitorcenter.com/red-white-blue-to-do-philadelphia-pa.