PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia’s Historic District is hosting a new Fourth of July event this year. But it will take place a few days earlier than usual.
This year, the city will celebrate July 2, the day John Adams envisioned Independence Day to be, with Red, White & Blue To-Do.
It was on that date back in 1776 the Second Continental Congress voted in Independence Hall to approve a resolution declaring “That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
Following that declaration, Adams wrote his wife Abigail stating the historic event ought to be solemnized with “pomp and parade.”
Two days later, on July 4, the Declaration of Independence was signed by representatives from the colonies.
Adams’ prediction didn’t come true, as celebrations ring out on July 4, not July 2.
But this year, the historical district will bring his vision to life with celebrations kicking off at 9 a.m. on July 2 at the Betsy Ross House.
City representative Jazelle Jones is Philadelphia’s director of special events. She says there will be a parade, educational opportunities, musical performances and restaurant deals.
“I am proud to be here today and proud to be here on behalf of our mayor, Mayor Cherelle Parker, celebrating this incredible partnership with cultural institutions and Old City businesses that perfectly mirror Mayor Parker’s vision of building one Philadelphia and a city united in its diversity and strengthened by its communal spirit,” Jones said.