Philadelphia-based nonprofit One River Alliance(ORA) is proud to announce the full details for its highly popular annual 2025 FreedomFest Fireworks Festival, first launched in 2019 and has become a signature summer event set against the backdrop of one of the nation’s most historic waterfronts captures the spirit of community, celebration, and civic pride.
FreedomFest kicks off with a performance of the National Anthem, followed by a high-energy set on the main stage from crowd favorites Philly Heart & Soul. Back by popular demand is the beer garden, which will feature libations from Philadelphia’s own Attic Brewing Co., Briganti Wines, City Distilling, and Crooked Eye Brewery. Throughout the evening, the beer garden will host a rotating lineup of live performances by local talent. Also new for 2025, festival goers can soar to new heights aboard an exciting 40-foot Ferris wheel, offering a dazzling view of the Delaware River.
Partnering with State Street Events, FreedomFest takes place on the Fourth of July at Pleasant Hill Park(Delaware River and Linden Ave) beginning at 5 p.m. and wraps up with a spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m. The free family-fun event offers the community the opportunity to experience a dynamic lineup of live musical performances, indulge in delicious offerings and unique goods from more than 20 local food trucks and artisan vendors, and see a breathtaking state-of-the-art fireworks display by Pyrotecnico shot from a barge in the middle of the Delaware River.
Foodies will have plenty to savor with a mouthwatering lineup of local food trucks, including Philly Pretzel Factory, Los Gallos Mexican Restaurant, Champion Lowriders, Footies Catfish Cafe, Mama Smoothies, Let’z Eat, Joe’s Crafted Carvings, Byz Empire, Kanto Filipino BBQ, Mr. Burger, Taqueria Dos Hermanos, Ravioli Remix, and Spuddy Buddy Fry Factory. Also new for 2025, festival goers can soar to new heights aboard an exciting 40-foot Ferris wheel, offering a dazzling view of the Delaware River. At 9 p.m., folks can view a spectacular fireworks show that will fill the sky with vibrant colors and booming effects, providing a festive finale to the evening.
“What started as a bold ‘what if’ has now become the second largest event in Philadelphia on July 4th,” said Dana Russikoff, Founder and Executive Director of One River Alliance. “Our goal was to create a premier July 4th event in the Northeast for residents who could not make it downtown. Each year, we’re inspired by how this event has grown, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds who are grateful for a place in their own neighborhood to celebrate the holiday. We’re honored to offer this free, family-friendly event that captures the heart of summer and spirit of independence in Northeast Philly, and we could not do it without the unwavering support of the 8th Police District, Councilman Mike Driscoll, and our generous sponsors.”
Founded in 2019 by Russikoff, One River Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uniting communities along the tidal Delaware River from Trenton to the Delaware Bay to promote a healthier, more connected, and economically vibrant riverfront. ORA brings its mission to life through dynamic public events and community-driven initiatives that spark engagement, foster connection, and build lasting momentum, most notably through its annual signature celebration, FreedomFest. These efforts help elevate the River as a shared resource and support ORA’s long-term vision of establishing the Delaware River as a nationally recognized recreational destination.
Click here to learn more about FreedomFest and sponsorship opportunities.