Independence Day Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village

An explosive good time will be had by all on Independence Day Weekend when Old Sturbridge Village celebrates with the firing of a new reproduction cannon and a host of other patriotic activities. Visitors will have the chance to take part in a citizens' parade, play 19th-century style "base ball," march with the militia, participate in a pie-eating contest, and sign their "John Hancocks" on a giant copy of the Declaration of Independence. A summer barbecue, prepared by the Village's own chef, will be available for purchase along with beer and wine; visitors may enjoy a picnic on the Common. Children and families will especially enjoy a little physical activity and friendly competition with "Farm Olympics" games. A brass band, Quintebrass, will perform on July 3rd and 5th. Public readings of the Declaration of Independence will take place each day, with special guest readers; State Senator Stephen Brewer will perform the reading on July 4th.

Musicians play fife and drum music throughout the weekend, and at 11:00 a.m. on July 4th, the 239th Anniversary of American Independence, a naturalization ceremony takes place on the Village Common. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will present scores of candidates to the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, and they will pledge their Oath of Allegiance to the United States for the very first time. Old Sturbridge Village Singers will perform patriotic songs during the ceremony. Independence Day Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village is sponsored by Southbridge Credit Union.