Independence Day the 18th Century Way!

Join park staff & volunteers in celebration of our nation's 250th birthday. Begin the day with the annual Rotary ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldiers, as park staff & volunteers help pay tribute to the fallen.
The celebration continues throughout the day with cannon & musket salutes and Declaration of Independence readings. Full schedule below!
Happy Birthday, United States!
ALL DAY
Sign a birthday card to our country.
Declare Your Allegiance!
ALL DAY
Sign your own Declaration of Independence or British loyalty oaths or make a tricorn hat or design your own flag to show off your patriotism!
Inside the fort

Independence Day Discovery Activity
ALL DAY All kids and their families are invited to explore what it took for the Continental Army and their families to survive the American Revolution and how they contributed to our Nation’s victory.
Get your booklet at the fort or visitor center.
Hands-on History
ALL DAY
Play some 18th Century toys and games, dress up in a soldier’s uniform, learn more about life during the Revolution with this interactive program!
Inside the fort

I Am Free Because…
ALL DAY
“Freedom” and “independence” are not just words; they are also ideas. What do they mean to you and why? Share your thoughts in chalk, on paper, or out loud to hear.
Sidewalk in front of the visitor center

Memorial Service
9:30am – 10 am
Remember those who sacrificed so much to see our new country to gain its independence. Join the community at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor those men and women.
Corner of Liberty and James Streets
Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence
11am – 11:15 am
Listen to the words that placed a new nation on the world stage. Period cheers and muskets salutes to the new nation and its supporters to follow.
11:15 am – 11:30 am
Join soldiers in a musket salute to the new nation.