The fireworks might be the main event, but really – no one wants to spend all day standing around waiting for 9:30 p.m.

The best Fourth of July plans are built around the fireworks, not entirely about them. Imagine rooftop cocktails before sunset, waterfront beers, a great dinner, maybe one more stop afterward, and then ending the night under one of the biggest fireworks displays of the year...pretty good, right?

Here's how to make the most of Independence Day in Philadelphia.

Ah, the Fourth of July! For most, it’s a day filled with fireworks lighting up the skies, but what if you’re looking for some different ways to celebrate America's 248th birthday? Philadelphia has so much to offer for those wanting a unique, non-fireworks Fourth. Let’s check out the who, what, and where of these events, without the need for all the crash, bang, boom.

Our beloved city, the birthplace of the United States, the hometown of cheesesteaks and water ice, is pulling out all the stops this July 4th. Philadelphia is set to put on not one, but two shows that'll have you ooh'ing and aah'ing.