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Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
The Daily Pennsylvanian

Photo Essay | Flags, flyovers, and fireworks: Phila. celebrates July Fourth amid pandemic

Philadelphia Independence Day 4th of July 2020 Air Force Planes Thunderbirds City Hall Flyover.jpg

The United States Air Force Thunderbirds soared above City Hall at 5:22 p.m. Philadelphia was their third stop on a route over four cities that were significant in the United States' path to achieving independence.

Independence Day celebrations in Philadelphia, the birthplace of America, looked very different this year amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Military aircrafts flew over the city, protesters filled the streets, and unofficial fireworks lit up the sky.