Live updates: Philadelphia's 'Salute to Independence' parade canceled amid heat wave

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Last updated: Friday, July 3, 2026 2:44PM GMT
Philadelphia's Salute to Independence parade canceled amid heat wave

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The birthplace of the nation is getting ready to celebrate the Fourth of July and America's 250th birthday as festivities kick into high gear in Philadelphia.

However, extreme heat is forcing many event cancellations, including Philadelphia's "Salute to Independence" parade.

This, as an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for the entire Philadelphia region.

Temperatures in the city are expected to be around 100 degrees through Saturday.

For the latest forecast, visit 6abc.com/Weather.

Meanwhile, ABC is marking America's 250th anniversary with 24 hours of unparalleled programming called "Disney Celebrates America."

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Jul 02, 2026, 9:34 PM GMT

U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers' Chorus concert canceled due to heat

The The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers' Chorus concert that was planned for Thursday, July 2, in Philadelphia has been canceled due to the extreme heat.

The concert was set to begin at 7 p.m. on Independence Mall.

The performance was to be headlined by award-winning performing artist Queen Latifah and along with a special performance by Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan.

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Jul 02, 2026, 5:00 PM GMT

List of fireworks in the Philadelphia area

There are dozens of July 4th fireworks displays happening across the entire Delaware Valley.

Philadelphia's will blast off a display fit for the birthplace of America around midnight on July 4, following the One Philly Unity Concert along the Ben Franklin Parkway.

Check out our full list to see where to find them in your neighborhood HERE.

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Jul 02, 2026, 3:48 PM GMT

Road closures for July 4th concerts, events in Philadelphia

The City of Philadelphia has released a list of road closures ahead of the many events taking place across the city to celebrate America's 250th birthday on July 4.

The Wawa Welcome America Festival runs June 24 through July 4, bringing visitors from all over the country to celebrate these historic events in Philadelphia.

Festival events will include concerts on Independence Mall, fireworks, neighborhood block parties, Wawa Hoagie Day, free museum days and a parade featuring representatives from all 50 states and U.S. territories.

The City encourages residents, businesses, commuters, and visitors to plan ahead and stay informed about transportation impacts and event updates. To receive alerts, text AMERICA to 888-777.

See list of road closures HERE.

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Jul 02, 2026, 3:32 PM GMT

Big Boy 4014: Largest operating steam locomotive in world coming to Philly

Train enthusiasts will be waiting along the tracks to watch a historic locomotive pass through our region.

The Union Pacific Big Boy 4014 is chugging along the East Coast to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

The Union Pacific Big Boy 4014 is chugging along the East Coast to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

It's the largest operating steam locomotive in the world.

RELATED: Big Boy 4014: World's largest operating steam locomotive coming to Philadelphia for America 250

The conductor will say "all aboard" in Jim Thorpe and then make stops in Reading and Pottstown Thursday.

The locomotive will then be on display at the Navy Yard in South Philadelphia on July 4-5.

For the full schedule, visit the Union Pacific website. You can even track Big Boy along its tour online HERE.