Excitement builds for Democratic National Convention

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- We are just a few weeks away from the start of the Democratic National Convention, and convention CEO Rev. Leah Daughtry says all systems are 'Go.'

While the events inside the Wells Fargo Arena will require credentials, Daughtry says, there will still be plenty of ways for the rest of us to participate as well.

Regular Democratic National Committee meetings will be held every day during the convention, and those will be free and be open to the public, starting at 10 am.

"You can be part of the convention," said Daughtry. "You can hear some of our policy initiatives. You can participate - meet Democratic Party officials, meet (other) Philadelphians who are here to be engaged as well."

You can also expect some of those delegates to come to you, popping up at historic sites and in the neighborhoods to sightsee, mingle and spend money.

"So look out for the folks who may be a little lost, need some help, who want to know the best place to hear some jazz, get a cheesesteak," said Daughtry. "And only Philadelphians can tell them that."

And even if you're not a delegate, "You be in the room where it happens," as they say in the play 'Hamilton.'

The Wells Fargo Arena will be open for public tours on the Saturday and Sunday before the convention starts.

Daughtry promises chaos and congestion will be minimal, with little to no road closures in the area as well as plans to move delegates around outside of rush hour.

But if you still choose to keep your distance and just watch on television, you should still catch quite a show. Lots of stars are expected, including, according to rumor, Beyonce.

Is that rumor true?

"I can't say yes," said Daughtry. "Get your wave ready and your lemonade going and keep your fingers crossed."