PRESS RELEASE
Monday, June 30, 2025
WILMINGTON, Del. – The City of Wilmington is excited to share details for its family-friendly Independence Day Celebration, taking place Saturday, July 5, 2025, from noon to 3:00 p.m. in Rodney Square. This free, daytime event marks a new approach to celebrating the Fourth of July—bringing the festivities into the heart of downtown Wilmington for an afternoon of live music, fun, and civic pride.
Attendees can expect an exciting lineup of live music from three high-energy bands: lower case blues, Richard Raw & Word Warrior Band, and What The Funk. The celebration will also feature hot-air balloon rides, water slides, a rock wall, a trackless train, face painting, interactive games, and more—all free of charge. A wide variety of food trucks and vendors will be on-site offering summertime favorites like BBQ, burgers, tacos, crab cakes, kettle corn, water ice, and more.
While this year’s event will not feature fireworks, the City is proud to host an inclusive and festive daytime experience that’s safe and welcoming for all ages.
This is a non-alcohol event designed to foster a secure, family-friendly atmosphere. The City has partnered with Event Allies to coordinate the celebration.
“This celebration is a reminder of what makes Wilmington such a special place—our diversity, our history, and our commitment to community,” said Mayor John Carney. “We’re bringing people together for a fun, family-focused afternoon in the heart of our city, and we’re proud to use this moment to officially kick off the Wilmington 250th Celebration.”
Tina Betz, Director of the City’s Office of Cultural Affairs, emphasized the broader significance of the event: “Rodney Square is where our city’s past and future meet. This year’s celebration is about more than music and games—it’s about honoring our collective story and building momentum for a truly meaningful Wilmington 250th. We invite everyone to come out, celebrate, and be part of history.”
This year’s shift in format comes as Wilmington prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary. Wilmington 250 will invite residents to reflect on the city’s past, engage with its present, and help shape its future—through storytelling, history, and civic pride. The City looks forward to sharing more information about Wilmington 250 in the months to come.
For updates and information, visit www.WilmingtonDE.gov or follow the City of Wilmington on social media.
For more information about Delaware’s statewide efforts, visit www.delaware250.org.
