Penn Museum’s Inaugural Juneteenth Festival sets the tone for 32nd WAWA Welcome America Celebrations
Philadelphia is certainly the place to be this summer as Penn Museum’s Inaugural Juneteenth Festival held on June 15“complements” the annual WAWA Welcome America events.
Photos taken at Penn Museum on June 15 tell some of the story that the concepts of free admission and festival events connect the two very special and robust efforts.
According to an official Wawa media release, “Wednesday, June 19th marked the official kickoff of Wawa Welcome America with the Juneteenth Block Party and Free Museum Day at the African American Museum in Philadelphia.
“From there, the festival is officially in full swing with celebrations, family-friendly programming, the new Declaration House Block Party, and the new Celebration of Innovation and Education in honor of Jefferson’s 200th Anniversary, and community events throughout the days of this annual list of offerings.”
FREE MUSEUM DAYS: For the full list of participating museums offering free and/or pay-what-you-wish admission during Wawa Welcome America, click here.
FULL FESTIVAL SCHEDULE: The full 2024 festival schedule is available here in multiple languages.
For instance, Concilio’s Annual Hispanic Fiesta, supported by PECO, is a two-day festival, Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., uniting people of all ages through music, dance, and cuisine to celebrate Hispanic culture and heritage.
New this year, Philadelphia’s largest event of its kind, the Fiesta will move to the John F. Kennedy Bridge, from 20th to 30th streets on John F. Kennedy Boulevard.
Part of the PECO Multicultural Series since its inception, this year’s event will happen next to the iconic PECO Building in downtown Philadelphia.
Both days are jam packed with great performances, including legendary artist Joseph Fonseca, an icon of merengue music, and Huey Dunbar, one of the most prominent representatives of the history of salsa in all the Hispanic countries.
While there, guests can delve into cultural cuisine at the Oasis supported by the Philadelphia International Airport and explore the many vendors and activations.
“Well-Being On Wheels,” presented by Independence Blue Cross, will feature free health screenings, wellness information, and nutrition takeaways.
This event is produced in partnership with Concilio, a non-profit organization located in North Philadelphia which has been serving the community since 1962.
On Monday, June 24, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., celebrate the opening of Monument Lab’s newest exhibition at the Declaration House at Independence National Historical Park, 7th Street between Market and Chestnut.
This block party will celebrate the global debut of Sonya Clark’s The Descendants of Monticello with special performances.
Plus Monument Lab will showcase several historic and artistic organizations from the area, including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, PhillyCAM, and more.
This event is in partnership with Monument Lab at Independence National Historical Park. The exhibition will be live through early September.
And brand new!
Celebration of Innovation and Education, in partnership with Jefferson University and Medical School. In honor of Jefferson’s 200th Anniversary, join us at the new Jefferson Plaza in Center City for an afternoon celebrating innovation and education with entertainment, sweet and savory treats, and activities for all to enjoy.
Founded in 1824 as one of the nation’s first medical schools, Jefferson has grown to become a national global research university with over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs, and the region’s largest health system.
DJ Hollywood will be spinning all afternoon with performances by Mark Early Jr., Benita Farmer Band, The Austin Woodlin Band, and a special performance by the legendary Kathy Sledge, a founding member of Sister Sledge!
Make plans to attend on Tuesday, June 25, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Jefferson Plaza, 12th and Chestnut Streets.
REMINDER! Voting for the Wawa Foundation Hero Award is open through June 28:
The Wawa Foundation Hero Award honors a non-profit organization and its volunteers serving Philadelphia by providing services that build stronger communities through preserving our independence, protecting our safety, and mentoring and inspiring our youth.
Submissions were accepted through May 31, 2024. Four of the most compelling stories will be chosen for voting by the public.
Voting will occur from June 13 to June 28, 2024. The winning organization will receive a $50,000 grant from The Wawa Foundation, and three finalists will each receive a $10,000 grant.
The Wawa Foundation Hero Award will be announced during the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony on July 4. 2024.
For more information on The Wawa Foundation Hero Award terms and conditions or to vote, visit www.TheWawaFoundation.org.
About Welcome America, Inc: Welcome America, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization engaged in a public-private partnership with the City of Philadelphia which seeks to enhance the resident and visitor experience by planning and producing citywide celebrations including Wawa Welcome America and the Philly Holiday Experience.
These events generate positive economic impact to the local economy and increase awareness of Philadelphia as a global destination.
Wawa Welcome America is Philadelphia’s premier summer festival that celebrates freedom and independence from Juneteenth to July 4th!
As the nation’s largest July 4th celebration and one of the largest free festivals in the country, Wawa Welcome America offers Philadelphians and visitors sixteen days of free, family-friendly programs.
These featured programs celebrate the lives, voices, and experiences of all Americans through art, culture, wellness, and history.
The Wawa Welcome America Festival includes concerts, fireworks displays, Wawa Hoagie Day and more!
Welcome America was founded in 1993, and celebrates its 32nd festival in 2024. Visit july4thphilly.com to learn more, and join the conversation.
Safety Tips from the City of Philadelphia to help reduce heat-related illness while attending events during excessive heat:
- Know the forecast. Humidity increases what the actual temperature feels like and severe storms can pop up during excessive heat events. You can find forecasts on the National Weather Service website. Get free severe weather alerts from the City by texting AMERICA to 888777.
- Know the signs of heat-related illness like heat stroke or hyperthermia. Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Find information on the City of Philadelphia’s website. If you suspect someone is experiencing distress, call 911.
- Be aware of the effects of heat on vulnerable populations like older adults, small children, people with pre-existing health conditions, or those with access and functional needs.
- Pack plenty of water for you and your group. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Limit drinks that cause dehydration. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. Wear a hat or bring an umbrella.
- Use sunscreen for protection.
- Plan your trip! Besides deciding on a meet-up place where your group knows to go if you become separated, schedule visits that include locations that have air conditioning or shade to get a break from the sun, especially during the warmest part of the day.
- Limit the amount of strenuous activity. If travelling a distance, consider SEPTA mass transit or ride-share options.
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