The Ben Franklin Bridge closes to all vehicles from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, for a free public block party marking its 100th anniversary. The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) expects tens of thousands of pedestrians to walk the 1.6-mile span.
This is Philadelphia’s largest single-day street event this summer. The closure overlaps with MLB All-Star Game fan festivals, creating a weekend of overlapping road restrictions and transit adjustments.
What’s happening on the bridge
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the bridge is pedestrian-only. Organizers have set up five live music stages, one at each approach and three mid-span. Vintage car displays from the 1920s line the Camden side. Historical walking tours, led by bridge engineers, depart every hour from the Philadelphia entrance.
Food vendors include classic Philly cheesesteak trucks and Camden seafood stalls. A fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m., visible from the bridge and adjacent Penn’s Landing park. A kids’ zone with face painting and bridge-building activities runs until 5 p.m.
An MLB-themed exhibit titled “100 Years of Baseball” is stationed at the Philadelphia approach, linking the celebration to the All-Star Game events. The All-Star Village at Penn’s Landing opens Saturday at noon, featuring batting cages and autograph sessions.
Road closures and traffic impacts
I-676 ramps to the bridge on the Philadelphia side close at 5 a.m. Detours route traffic via the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-76) or Betsy Ross Bridge (I-95). On the Camden side, Route 30 and Admiral Wilson Boulevard exits are redirected starting 4 a.m.
MLB All-Star Game closures compound the disruption. Broad Street between Pattison Avenue and Washington Avenue will have rolling closures from Saturday through Tuesday for the Home Run Derby and fan festivals. PATCO Speedline is offering free rides all day Saturday to and from the 8th & Market (Philadelphia) and Broadway (Camden) stations. SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line and bus routes 17, 21, and 42 have extra service.
Bike valet is available at both bridge entrances. Limited paid parking exists near Penn’s Landing and the Camden Waterfront; lots fill by 8 a.m.
Safety and logistics
No vehicles, bikes, or scooters are allowed on the bridge during the event. Security checkpoints at both entrances prohibit large bags. First aid stations are at each end. Pets on leashes are permitted. Temperatures could hit 90°F; organizers recommend water and sunscreen.
Event schedule summary
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. | Bridge closed to vehicles | Entire span |
| 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Pedestrian festival | Bridge deck |
| 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. | MLB All-Star Village opens | Penn’s Landing |
| 9:30 p.m. | Fireworks | Viewable from bridge |
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: When and why is the Ben Franklin Bridge closing?
- A: The bridge closes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, for a free public block party celebrating its 100th anniversary.
- Q: What activities are planned on the bridge?
- A: Activities include five live music stages, vintage car displays, historical walking tours, food vendors, a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., a kids’ zone, and an MLB-themed exhibit titled ‘100 Years of Baseball.’
- Q: How will traffic be affected during the closure?
- A: I-676 ramps to the bridge on the Philadelphia side close at 5 a.m. Traffic is detoured via the Walt Whitman Bridge or Betsy Ross Bridge. The closure overlaps with MLB All-Star Game fan festivals, causing additional road restrictions and transit adjustments.
Extended Reading
Sources: NBC10 Philadelphia reported the closure schedule on July 7, 2026. The Philadelphia Inquirer detailed MLB All-Star Game road restrictions on July 10. USA Today published a guide to bridge activities on July 10. All data confirmed as of publication.