Photos: Parade performers, spectators bid America ‘happy birthday’ in Philadelphia on Fourth of July

Philadelphia is called the Cradle of Liberty — and invites everyone to experience its history on Independence Day.

Marchers in Philadelphia’s Fourth of July Parade strut around City Hall on July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

Philadelphia celebrates the Fourth of July with enthusiasm.

Thousands flocked to the birthplace of America on July 4 to learn about Revolutionary War history and to cheer on the diverse organizations that march in the city’s annual parade.

Before the big concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Center City was a sea of red, white, and blue from the National Constitution Center to City Hall.

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A line of people stretch across the pathway to see the Liberty Bell.
The line to see the Liberty Bell on Independence Mall in Philadelphia on July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
A Christmas in July-themed float featured Santa Claus at the Fourth of July Parade in Center City Philadelphia
A Christmas in July-themed float featured Santa Claus at the Fourth of July Parade in Center City Philadelphia, July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)

People wave U.S. flags on Market Street as the parade goes by.
Market Street in Philadelphia was closed for the Fourth of July Parade, July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
Raquel signs into a microphone on a float.
Local artist Raquel performs Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas” at the Fourth of July parade in Philadelphia on July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
The Impulse Music Group drumline walks with someone dressed as Elmo
The Impulse Music Group drumline brought their tip-collecting Elmo to the Fourth of July parade in Philadelphia on July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
Someone dressed as Uncle Sam and officers walk by City Hall in the parade.
Spectators waved to Uncle Sam and young officers in Philadelphia at the Fourth of July Parade on July 4, 2023. (Kimberly Paynter/WHYY)
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