It’s a Wrap: Philly Fireworks Ends Wawa Welcome America 2018

Posing with cardboard cut-out of Pitbull is real deal: Wawa Welcome America President and CEO Jeff Guaracino.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

There are many definitions for “lit” … as in “getting lit.” Not all have to do with a booze buzz. One alcohol-unrelated definition is “something that’s amazing in any sense.” Certainly, the spectacular July 4th fireworks’ display on the Ben Franklin Parkway, which concluded the weeklong celebration of the 4th annual Wawa Welcome America Festival, definitely was lit-worthy. Alcoholic beverages were discouraged; participants were asked to remain compliant in this regard.

In Phoenixville, the borough in which I reside, I could almost hear the Philly crowds’ collective oohs and aahs as the sky was lighted up. The appreciative fawning seemed to travel down river (Schuylkill) … a roaring, explosive jawn, possibly indeed the festival-concluding pyrotechnics’ extravaganza. But before there was that – the weeklong June 28th through July 4th celebration of 50 free events as banging as the fireworks – there was this, this being the May 21st press conference held at Independence Visitor Center to announce to representing media the specifics of the festival.

In attendance were nearly (if not all) of the events’ dignitaries, sponsors and top brass, those responsible for the planning, execution and delivery of a massively successful Independence Day (read: week) celebration. Opening remarks were made by Welcome America President and CEO Jeff Guaracino, who then welcomed Mayor Kenney who, in turn, was followed by other speakers, including Wawa President and CEO Chris Geysens, and David L. Cohen of Comcast Corporation … to name just several of many.

The big deal was the fact that 50 free events would be taking place. That number stuck with me because it’s one hella freebie party, where anyone – young, elderly, middlin’ and more – could enjoy a full week of fun without having to spend a dime. Pretty impressive for such a large city. The powers that be got it done expertly on only their 4th year organizing and running the show. Media also were treated to a sampling of gospel music by a gospel choir with more than 150 talented singers scheduled to perform July 1st on Independence Mall. Just as these folks know how to shine and rouse the crowd at a press conference, they performed equally joyously at the festival itself.

Word on the street is that the 2018 event went off with a positive and successful bang, particularly for such an ambitious (a full week, people!) effort. One can only imagine what Mr. Guaracino and Co. are probably already planning for their fifth go around in the “City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.” Whatever this team (for it takes an all-consuming team effort) brings to our Independence Day festivities in 2019, I suspect it’ll prove even more thrilling, as practice really does make close to perfect.

Ernest Hemingway wrote of “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place.” Here’s hoping 2019’s week-long celebration in Philadelphia is again a clean, well-oiled machine and place.

From Left, Jeff Guaracino listens as Mayor Kenney makes Wawa Welcome America’s opening remarks and details this year’s additions and improvements on an already good time.

Wawa President & CEO Chris Geysens describes 2018’s plans, keeping the crowds’ attention as did Jeff. All speakers were hyper-enthusiastic; the buzz was contagious.

NBC10 and Telemundo62 provided maximum event coverage. Fox29 also attended the press conference.

Comcast Corporation’s David L. Cohen was yet another speaker exhibiting an excitable vibe in his words to the media crowd.

This year’s Wawa Hero Award Gold Medal recipient was deservedly presented to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia. Sweet: $50,ooo grant from the Wawa Foundation!