Loews Hotel Philadelphia Sparks Red, White and Views at Fireworks Watch Party

Iconic, indeed! Loews Hotel Philadelphia’s 33rd floor really made for some exquisite panoramic views at the fireworks’ watch party.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

“I’ve learned through the years that it’s not where you live, it’s the people who surround you that make you feel at home.” – J.B. McGee

“You must remember, family is often born of blood, but it doesn’t depend on blood. Nor is it exclusive of friendship. Family members can be your best friends, you know. And best friends, whether or not they are related to you, can be your family.” ― Trenton Lee Stewart

Not to put too fine a point on it, but it’s a shit show out there. If you know, you know, and sadly, many do.

“Shit show” and “hot mess” are the only descriptors I can think to assign to the current state of the world – and society-at-large – with its scores of issues gone next-level tumultuous. That said, I’m inviting you here to join me on my latest adventure at Loews Philadelphia Hotel which includes a party, so I’ll skip woe-waxing over drama-trauma other than to wonder if anyone will coin a phrase to aptly describe the collective madness enveloping us. Again, if you know, you know.

My own world circa 2025 has seen its record share of upheaval, including $6,000 surgery on my eight-year-old Maine Coon, Mister Kai-Kai. On May 18th, I narrowly escaped serious injury and death in a motor vehicle accident caused by a massive tree instantaneously falling onto Lancaster Avenue in Lower Merion Township in Montgomery County. Tragically, the woman in the right lane (to my left) did not survive. 6abc Action News captured the devastating incident. To wit:  Survivor recounts traumatic experience after tree falls, kills woman in Wynnewood, Pa. – 6abc Philadelphia.

Post-crash, I spent nearly seven hours in the ED at Lankenau Hospital, where I was scanned, X-rayed, interviewed then ultimately released. Seven hours was a long time to be laid up but certainly offered occasion to reflect. In such crisis moments, many think of family, and by family, I mean whatever version one recognizes as such – nuclear, extended, blended, brood of choice – you name it; the units of kith and kin are varied, complex and intricate.

I call the Loews Hotel chain “family,” and not just because of their brand promise “Welcoming You Like Family,” although they very much do that. Family-friendly services and amenities for kids, pets and all guests are par for the stay rather than hidden in the fine print. I feel warmth from the moment I arrive. My stays are always personalized; attention is paid.

After the crash, my world hasn’t felt safe and, while I have always favored puttering at home and hearth, I’m inclined of late be more hermetic – in my hermitage era, if you will. Said era is where I was firmly entrenched when, as if by family intuition (when you ring a family member, but the line is busy as they are simultaneously calling you!), my Loew’s kinfolk sent me an invitation to their “Red, White & Views” Fourth of July celebration! I’ve been hosted some five or six times at their Philadelphia location, so I was keen to spend an overnighter where I always feel safe, properly cared for and protected.

I was excited at the prospect of a city sojourn. And my home in Gladwyne is a mere 11 miles away. I braced myself for the drive in, as I now navigate mostly only single-lane opposing roads. Still, I stashed a paper bag in my new vehicle to deter or assist with any potential episodes of panic. The ride into Philly was surprisingly uneventful. I white-knuckled the steering wheel far less than expected.

My customary routine during stays is to arrive, check in, scope my room (including a jump or two on the bed to test it), unpack, explore the City Hall area, return to room, shower and primp for dinner, nip over to the lobby bar for a pre-feast cocktail, dine on a gorgeous meal that includes starters, entree and dessert, then return to room for digestion and relaxation.

This time, I’d taken tons of photos but decided to wait until the morning after to begin working and working out; I am a morning person – always have been, so gym routines and writing begin après coffee. That’s my standard operating procedure while at work as an “influencer,” as a server called me. My Independence Day stay differed in that, come the darkness, the fireworks’ watch party was happening, so I prepped for an extended evening well past my bedtime.

Follow me below with photos as I arrive and settle in. Onliest thing: you won’t see any city exploratory snaps, as this stay (fireworks excepting) was more a rest and relaxation affair. The crash was still fresh – only a little over a month – in mind, body, spirit, unconscious, memory and more. It was a herculean effort to leave home after my world had taken a turn for the danger zone (PTSD is scarily real). I just wanted to be home with my brood.

Oh, but July 4th was truly an Independence Day for me, beginning on my arrival at Loews.

I arrived at 1200 Market Street in the “Heart of Center City” around 2 p.m. for an early check in. My Loews family is always willing to accommodate both early requests and later departures.

The hallway heading toward check in was as I remember it – clean, neat and modern.

A mini-lounge space just ahead of the check-in area is a nice spot for sitting, shifting gears and organizing clan and/or belongings.

Four-Diamond rated Loews Philadelphia Hotel showcases coveted award plaques where they can’t be missed. The hotel calls home the architectural landmark that is the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS) building.

In true family tradition, I was offered a king-sized room upgrade. Nothing like a clean, well-lighted place to greet a weary, careworn traveler. And what a fun bed to jump on–a silly little arrival tradition of my own culled over many years of hotel stays. Shh: don’t tell my hosts!

Working full-time makes keeping neat my own home a challenge; I appreciated the room’s uncluttered and spotless decor and roominess.

Destination driving and travel can be messy, cramp-inducing and tiresome; it’s no wonder this room’s order and ample space invited sighs of welcome relief.

I do quite fancy a roomy shower stall and fluffy white towels.

There’s really nothing quite like the anticipation of parting a hotel room’s curtains to check the view. I let out an audible gasp on sighting Billy Penn from my 30th floor room upgrade. He’s that handsome! ** chuckle ** And yes, I talk to him throughout my stay.

William Penn stands sentry over my room and keeps watch day and night on the city’s goings on.

Another incredible view from the hotel’s 30th floor is the iconic City Hall Building.

As I was admiring the incredible views, my attention was diverted by a door knock and delivery of a delectable-looking amenity accompanied by a sweet, handwritten card, wishing me a wonderful stay. Familial hospitality at its finest! I nibbled on the cheeses from the charcuterie board, albeit daintily for not wanting to disturb my appetite for a 6 p.m. dinner reservation at a personal favorite restaurant, Bank & Bourbon.

Unparalleled hospitality is what I’ve grown accustomed from Loews Hotel Philadelphia. Welcomed with open arms, candied pecans and more!

Time really does seem to fly when traveling, and I prefer to get the proverbial bang-for-buck, cramming a host of activities into a short duration. This visit was different (as mentioned) with a more restful and relaxing itinerary; I wanted to be low-key as befits healing and recovery.

Fortunately, the accident’s impact did not jostle my brain enough to disturb my foodie self. This gal’s appetite was as spot-on as ever. Being fed and watered when hosted is always a priority. Bank & Bourbon without fail does well (but never well done–I’m medium-rare!) by me. I cannot recall a less than stellar meal from starters to sweet-treat finishers.

After an invigorating shower in a spacious stall, I toweled off, then primped for dinner. Primping circa 2025 is vastly reconfigured from earlier times. What, pray, is an eyelash curler? This time around, I exchanged flip flops for comfy slip-on shoes with minimal presence of heel. Still, I had to mark the occasion as special, so out came a swoosh of eyeshadow and a smidge of lip gloss.

I made my way downstairs to the Lobby Lounge with bar area, snapped some shots of the ample gathering region populated by a wall of TVs set to various channels to appeal to one and all, then announced myself at Bank & Bourbon for my 6:00 pm reservation. Of course, I was promptly seated.

I made my way to the restaurant via a spacious lobby with a sleek, contemporary design and with a bank vault in the distance.

Read the history of Loews Hotel Philadelphia and discover that the building once housed the country’s first savings bank (PSFS).

I’m not trying to place nefarious ideas in anyone’s head, but what a great location spot for a heist movie! Would love to see this art installation in Technicolor on the silver screen.

Lounge loungers exhibit sign of the times with the majority attached to their phones. The two women making eye contact seem out of some 70’s hotel postcard memorabilia. That said, it’s a nicely appointed and apportioned gathering space featuring a cozy lounge bar.

Bank & Bourbon’s host station area features a modern, rustic vibe with an oak wood barrel positioned just beyond the entrance.

This seating area near the host station easily accommodates larger parties.

Bank & Bourbon’s bar exhibits spacious, comfortable seating and ample spirits for innovative cocktail creations. Bourbon Masters boast specialized expertise and knowledge.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Sharon Kozden attempts to replicate in 2025 a photo from her prior visit, circa 2022.

Back in the day (2022), Sharon Kozden sipped a margarita and was outfitted and bejeweled in red, white and blue.

My hands-down favorite cocktail is a classic Margarita, lightly salted, straight up and always crafted with Jose Cuervo Tequila.

This is one shelving hack I must replicate in my home. Mister Kai-Kai (Maine Coon) and Belle du Joule (Doll-faced Himalayan) would thrill to climb it.

The Ahi Tuna Crudo starter was exceptional! Pineapple, chili pepper, smoked sea salt, cilantro and infused oils combined to create taste perfection.

Scrumptious Ahi tuna is mild, meaty, firm-textured and delicious raw, seared or grilled.

After the lightness of the Ahi tuna, I continued “lighting up” with another starter–the Spring Verde Salad, featuring snap peas, asparagus, haricot vert, noble cheddar and preserved lemon vinaigrette.

Bank & Bourbon “features innovative creative cocktails under the guidance of our experienced Bourbon Masters, and an inherently American menu that offers creative, seasonal interpretations of classic dishes – all in a comfortable, relaxed setting.”

Would that I could indulge in a nice red with my steak; however, my Rosacea is triggered by reds, so I opt for a Chardonnay grape. I chose a glass of Chardonnay, Nielson out of Santa Barbara County, California/2021 to accompany the filet.

Behold Bank & Bourbon’s exceptionally tender Filet Mignon with charred broccolini, mushroom confit and rosemary demi.

Done to medium-rare request perfection! Bank & Bourbon chefs never fail me.

These Parmesan Rosemary Fries were golden, crispy and finger-licking yummy.

While two starters and an entree more than sated my belly, I was not about to let dessert go; ergo, I placed a “to go” order.

Even as takeaway, the Chocolate Crunch Cake with bourbon vanilla ice cream, butter toffee bits and salted caramel sauce still reigned supreme.

Just after eating dessert, it was time to head to the 33rd floor for more indulgences at “Red, White & Views” fireworks’ watch party. Beginning at 8:00 p.m., guests presented tickets ($75 per adult) entitling them to “light bites, festive drinks and endless views.”

I nipped in a wee bit early to location scout at setup time. The staff did a fantastic job with decorations as well as with seating and food-station arrangements. As guests continued arriving, watch spots were claimed for maximum pre-sunset skyline gaping and for the rockets red, white, green and blue glare. Attendees easily navigated between rooms, heaping plates, sipping cocktails, grabbing passed morsels, mingling and chatting either seated or standing–all while a deejay cranked tunes and entertained patriotic partyers.

Let’s party!

Billed as the “crown jewel” of the PSFS Building, the iconic 33rd floor boasts some of the city’s best skyline views.

I checked out the pre-party scene, where things were coming together nicely. Stage left was the window area I claimed for my peeping.

Photo-op station with Loews-centric backdrop awaited first guest.

Patriotically decked out trio posed for the camera in the photo-op zone.

Photo-op props were plentiful and a fun accompaniment for guests’ event keepsakes.

From Left, Loews Hotel Philadelphia Director of Sales & Marketing Kimberly Pomerantz and Loews Philadelphia Hotel Director of Outlets Daniella Iaconelli were all smiles and eagerly accommodated my request for a photo.

Is a game-show hostess side hustle in the cards for writer Sharon Kozden?

Two gents get busy plating from a heap o’ foodstuff.

Ah … the fresh fruit bowl, which and along with crudité offerings, I appreciate more as costs continue to climb, particularly for wholesome foods.

This vibrant antipasto (“before the meal”) platter features an arrangement of prosciutto, salami, cheeses and marinated vegetables.

This gorgeously presented Baba Ghanoush is a silky-creamy appetizer consisting of garlic, roasted eggplant, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini and sundry seasonings.

Check out the adorbs repurposing of this card-catalog cabinet with pita wedges and artisan breads replacing the ol’ 3 x 5 cards.

Boursin Dip is a favorite party appetizer that is super-easy to make and a whipped dream for dipping.

This marinated medley of seasoned Greek- and Mediterranean olives was a delicious snack addition.

Guests bellied up to the bar, keeping its tender busy throughout the event.

A well-stocked bar area is essential for such a celebration.

Revelers wore casual threads that showcased tat artistry.

Warm passed appetizers were a hit with the crowd for ease of chowing down in a bite or two.

The Truffle Burger chafing dishes emptied quickly but also were speedily replenished.

The Crispy Hot Chicken with creamy slaw and pickle was another tasty dish that required repeat refills.

Jersey-based DJ, artist and audio engineer Cory Minto ignited the music and dance scene with popular favorites.

A guest family viewed the memorable and spectacular skyline from Loew’s 33rd floor.

A happy quartet eagerly honored my photo request and complied with easy smiles.

Could this have been the most patriotically decked out twosome? If not, they were a close second or third.

A pair of partyers appeared effortlessly cool and casual.

Piled high with blueberries, raspberries and strawberries to achieve optimum stars and stripes decorative effect, this heavenly cheesecake awaited its inaugural slice.

I curated the contents of this plate with great care to achieve the effect of dessert irresistibility.

Mini but mighty in the decadent delicacy department, these petites gave cuteness overload.

These petite tarts favor the pastries seen in Parisian boulangeries et patisseries.

Mini cupcakes outfitted with starts and stripes decor and red, white and blue jimmies populated this three-tiered dessert stand.

These ooey-gooey dense chocolate brownies with chocolate icing were calling all chocolate lovers.

Soon be time!

One of the hottest tickets in the nation’s birthplace from which to view an incredible light show was at Loew’s Hotel Philadelphia.

Darkness settled in, heralding showtime’s arrival.

While awaiting the fireworks’ commencement, this boy kept the entertainment indoors.

Is it possible the photographer was more interesting than the big bangs and color kaleidoscope in the sky?

Color bursts of red …

… white …

… and blue lighted up the nighttime sky and thrilled spectators.

Now that I’ve regaled you with my “what I did on my summer vacation” escape to the city on the 4th of July and with summer 2025 having wrapped, Loews Philadelphia Hotel is featuring Freshly Rooted by Loews Hotels, “a culinary program that brings sustainability to the forefront of the property’s food and beverage offerings.”

With crops at their peak in autumn and talk of roots making me think of the many root vegetables I add to hearty stews made during chilly weather, I am eager to try this initiative’s locally sourced culinary repertoire. I actually sampled one of the “rotating selections of salads showcasing the best of Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic’s local harvest” when I devoured the Spring Salad Verde (see photo in above article) “made with greens from farms in Pennsylvania, Asparagus, peas, fine herbs, Goat Rodeo Farm Cheese (PA) and Cured Lemon vinaigrette.”

Freshly Rooted even up the ante with concern for guests’ well-being by “providing details about the farms and purveyors listed on the menu, offering guests a deeper connection to the sustainability practices behind each dish. By partnering with local, trusted purveyors, Loews Philadelphia Hotel ensures that all ingredients—whether meat, dairy, produce, grains, or beverages—are Certified Humane, free from antibiotics, hormones, and steroids, and fully traceable to their origin.”

The notion of guests being given details about the menu items puts me in mind of how the cooks in my family would always announce that the trout was from such-and-such local pond or the blueberries in my pancakes were picked by whom and from which neighbors bushes. Once again, Loews embodies those homespun traditions and connections. Like mam. Like gram. Like fam.

For more information on Freshly Rooted by Loews Hotels visit https://www.loewshotels.com/discover-loews/sustainable-savors
For more information about Loews Hotels & Co or to book your upcoming travel, call 1-800-23 LOEWS or visit Loews Hotels online.