Looking for a fun, free, and festive way to celebrate the Fourth of July with your family? Head to Franklin Square on Tuesday, July 2nd for the second annual Red, White, & Blue To-Do - a full day of patriotic fun, music, historic storytelling, and kid-friendly activities right in the heart of Philly!
📍 Where:
Franklin Square (6th & Race Streets), Philadelphia
🗓️ When:
Tuesday, July 2, 2025 from 9 AM – 7 PM
🎟️ Admission: Free all day!
9 AM: Flag-Raising Ceremony at the Betsy Ross House (239 Arch St) with Betsy Ross herself!
11 AM–3 PM: New! Historic Chocolate Making with a real 18th-century chocolate maker + free cocoa drink samples.
3–5:45 PM: Live music in the courtyard featuring:
Rubble City String Band (Old Time)
Karter Jaymes (Soul)
Ursula Rucker & Little Lives (Poetry + Music)
1–3 PM at Franklin Square: Patriotic tattoos, meet Wonder Woman, and enjoy free kids' activities!
11 AM–4 PM: Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches - hear historic tales from around Philly and earn a free carousel ride!
11 AM–3 PM: Wawa Welcome America All-American Block Party with music, games, and mural art
2–6 PM: Music across Old City sites like Carpenter’s Hall and Elfreth’s Alley
Arrive early for the flag ceremony and chocolate demos, then let the kids play in Franklin Square’s playground and cool off with a carousel ride. Don’t forget sunscreen and snacks!
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Fair Play Philly is working to bring safe, fun play spaces to every neighborhood - because all kids deserve the freedom to play, no matter their zip code.
Philly moms, looking for something fun and free to do with the kids? Head to Mander Rec Center for Family Field Day on July 26 - a day full of games, music, crafts, and community fun!
Cool off and enjoy the water with free paddle boating at FDR Park on July 20! A fun and relaxing family activity for Philly moms and kids - no registration needed.
Amber Bowie
Author