250th
Salute to Independence Parade

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Web: July4thPhilly.com

Email: Todd Marcocci, Parade Producer

Phone: 610-692-7233

If you're interested in entering your band in the 250th Salute to Independence Parade, please request an application from Todd Marcocci at the contact info above.

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Hear Ye! Here Ye! Here Ye!

The City of Philadelphia, in partnership with Wawa Welcome America, invites everyone to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for the 250th Salute to Independence Parade, a spectacular celebration of the United States' 250th birthday in 2026!

As the heart of America's independence, Philadelphia will host the nation's largest parade, set for July 3, 2026 — a day before the usual festivities, making it a truly unique occasion for all to experience.

Looking back at pivotal moments in history, July 2, 1776 marked the day Congress voted to declare independence as the British fleet and army arrived at New York. The following day, July 3, 1776, Congress debated and revised the Declaration of Independence, leading to its adoption on the morning of July 4, 1776 — on a bright, sunny, yet cool day. This sets the stage to make July 3, 2026 a perfect day for a stunning 250th celebration parade commemorating the defining events that shaped the nation.

All Eyes on Philadelphia
With numerous landmarks and events bringing national attention to Philadelphia in 2026, July 3 will be "parade day" and will focus directly on this massive parade that has been in the planning and invitation stages since 2022. This is a parade NOT to be missed, as it will feature elements from around the nation and the globe coming together to create a four-hour long procession. The parade will travel in the footsteps of the nation's founders along a 2.4-mile route providing ample viewing space for spectators.

The parade will begin at 5th and Chestnut Streets and travel directly in front of Independence Hall, then on to Market Street and other historical and magnificent streets in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.

WAMSB International Marching Bands
Making the parade extra special, marching bands from as many as 17 nations will perform in the parade as part of the World Association of Marching Show Bands (WAMSB) USA Regional Competition as they strive to achieve a qualifying score for the 2027 WASMB World Championships.

Application Deadline is August 30, 2025
Marching bands and other units interested to appear in the parade can contact the parade organizers: Email Parade Producer Todd Marcocci or Email Associate Producer Annie Woods to request an application. The deadline to submit a completed application is August 30, 2025.

Check this page often to see updates about the parade and a list of participating marching bands and performing groups (to be posted below beginning in May 2025) as the list expands in the coming months.

In the words of John Adams, one of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence and the 2nd President of the U.S., "Let us celebrate with Pomp and Parade from one end of this continent to the other from this time forward forever more!"

HUZZAH!

Look for an initial roster of marching units to be released in May 2025.

• Historic Philadelphia is always a great place to gather for Independence Day celebrations because the "WAWA Welcome America!" celebration features numerous special events from late June through early July. The 2026 semiquincentennial (250th) celebration will bring added significance to annual events such as a televised concert featuring major artists and an amazing choreographed fireworks show. For a complete schedule of events, visit the "WAWA Welcome America!" website at July4thPhilly.com.
• Bands traveling to Philadelphia for the 250th Salute to Independence Parade can take advantage of many educational opportunities by touring historic sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center and Valley Forge National Historical Park.

Web: July4thPhilly.com

Email: Todd Marcocci, Parade Producer
Phone: 610-692-7233

If you're interested in entering your band in the 250th Salute to Independence Parade, please request an application from Todd Marcocci at the contact info above.