Events all day in our nation's birthplace on its birthday

Independence Day in America's birthplace means Wawa Welcome America, these days. There's a whole lot to do, to get out and enjoy.

You may not have realized it's a six-day festival and started June 29 with more than 50 free events.

Activities will be going on all day. Click here for a complete list of Tuesday events.

Among the highlights are the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony at Independence Hall at 10. Mayor Jim Kenney will present the Magis Award to Philadelphia Hometown Hero Ralph Galati, and local music icons Boyz II Men will be honored for their achievements in music and philanthropy. The Philly POPS BIG Band debuts and Boyz II Men's Nathan, Wanya & Shawn will read an excerpt from the Declaration of Independence.

That'll be followed by the United States of America's Independence Day Parade at 11, going west on Chestnut Street, north on 9th, east on Market, and south on Front - ending at Chestnut at noon.

That's when you should cross town to Party on the Parkway. From noon to 7, organizers say:

"Families can enjoy an interactive kid's area featuring the Strider Bikes obstacle course, Zipline, games, and make-and-take arts and crafts. Animal lovers can bring their furry friends to enjoy the Amtrak Pet Friendly area. The 21+ crowd can kick back and relax in two beer gardens, and all can enjoy the diverse food and music from the Philly Groove stage.
"For the second year, KIDZ BOP Kids will perform the group's only free live concert on July 4 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at 1 p.m. on the main stage. Bring the kids!"

Want free food? See Termini Bros. Bakery's spectacular five-tier cake decorated and 2,500 cupcakes displayed in the shape of an American flag - then dig in! First come, first served, at the Independence Visitor Center from 1 to 3.

Or you can just hang around Independence Mall for free entertainment from 1 to 5, plus you can visit all the usual tourist attractions.

That's just a sampling. Don't forget to click here for a complete list of Tuesday events.

It all ends with a grand finale on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

The Queen of Hip Hop, Mary J. Blige, will take the stage at 7 p.m., and she'll be joined by the Philly POPS BIG Band to honor Philly's own Boyz II Men.

Then, don't miss the patriotic fireworks display immediately following the concert at 9:30!

No need to fret it you're across town. There will also be fireworks at 9:30 on the Delaware River Waterfront.