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Philadelphia's July 4th Festivities Begin To Take Shape

By Hadas Kuznits

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Some of the events have been announced for this year's "Welcome America" celebration, during the days surrounding America's birthday on July 4th.

Philadelphia city representative Melanie Johnson says the schedule for "Wawa Welcome America" is coming together.

"We are particularly excited to provide you with news of 'Taste of Philadelphia,' " she said today.  "It's one of our most popular events, and it kicks off June 29th and goes through until Sunday, July 1st."

Sunday, July 1st, will also be "Gospel Day" on Penn's Landing, along the Delaware River.

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(City representative Melanie Johnson.)

"Participants from gospel choirs throughout the region will join together and perform uplifting and inspiring sets along the waterfront at the Riverstage," Johnson (right) says.

And that won't be the only musical celebration, of course.

"Also back this year, on July 3rd, Peter Nero and the Pops.  They'll return for a free concert at Independence Hall, on July 3rd at 8pm."

And the festivities culminate again this year with the free party on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, July 4th, featuring the funk music of "The Roots."

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