Ice cream proved the perfect antidote to scorching temps and sticky conditions as the Wawa Welcome America festival officially kicked off Saturday.
Fourteen frozen treat stores from the greater Philadelphia region set up shop in the middle of Reading Terminal Market to show off their ice cream specials and help people cool off from the heat.
Tastings were free. Larger scoops were also for sale.
Pictures: Philly Ice Cream Scoop, US Army Band u0022Pershing's Ownu0022 and Fireworks on the Delaware River
There were all types of crazy creations, like ice cream muffins, fried ice cream, bubble tea-flavored ice cream and even mushroom-flavored ice cream.
Along with the vendors inside the market, there were also demonstrations and games on Filbert Street, like a no-hands ice cream eating competition, ice cream juggling and a blindfolded taste test.
While the ice cream extravaganza was set to continue through 5 p.m., other events were on hand to keep the celebrations going.
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Saturday night, the United States Army Band played selections from fan-favorite musicals, such as Chicago and Hamilton to a packed crowd.
Day 1 wrapped up with fireworks over the Delaware River Waterfront.
