Wawa Welcome America Concerts Moved a Block North This Year

I thought the new site was great

With an easy-to-hear P.A. system, view of Independence Hall and restroom facilities nearby, I think this new location near the Independence Visitor Center deserves 5 stars. Photo by Jim Murphy, author of Real Philly History, Real Fast.

Someone at Wawa Welcome America thought outside the box this year … and came up with a great idea.

Organizers moved some of the popular concerts typically held near the July 4th holiday from Chestnut Street in front of Independence Hall … to the north side of Market Street next to the Independence Visitor Center. 

And while I didn’t know if it would work or not, to me the change was wonderful.

People set up chairs or blankets on both sides of Market Street — from near Independence Hall up a long way toward the south side of Market Street — and then from the side of the Visitor Center up toward Arch Street and the Constitution Center.

The sound system was superb. You could hear from anywhere on the Mall, while experiencing a breath-taking view of Independence Hall in the background the whole time.

At two of the concerts, I distributed American flags for the Independence Historical Trust. I attended a third one with my wife. At each one, the Army Field Band and Chorus, Gospel on Independence and the Philly POPS, the crowd seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the programs. 

A lot to like at the new site

People also took full advantage of having clean, abundant bathroom facilities close by. What a concept! They just had to enter from the Market Street entrance. And many did.

Personally, I hope they move the July 4th Independence Day events north of Market Street next year, too, and use the same bandstand and powerful public address system.

This year, I went to the July 4th ceremony behind Independence Hall near the John Barry statue. But my old ears could only pick up a small part of the audio … no matter where I moved. So after about 15 minutes, I went home.

To me the advantages of being able to see and hear speakers clearly, and have restroom facilities close by makes the site decision a no-brainer. I would move it to the Market Street location in an instant. 

But I won’t hold my breath that it will happen. Next year. Or any year.

The Philly POPS attracted a big crowd on both sides of Market Street. Photo by Jim Murphy.