Glorious Fourth

July 4th is a time to celebrate the country’s autonomy as the citizens of Prairietown come together to celebrate 60 years of American independence. However, independence and freedom are contested ideas. Through our Dissenting Voices program, experience how history challenges the question of freedom in America with a focus on the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s. Through passionate speeches and debates, experience how history shapes today’s idea of independence.

In the 1816 Lenape Indian Camp, celebrate Indigenous culture and history through traditional Indigenous music, social dances, and engaging storytelling.

Other activities throughout the day:

• Deck the town out in festive red, white, and blue as the citizens of Prairietown need your help to get ready for the celebrations. You may run into someone rehearsing for a special celebratory toast or speech.
• Join us at 2 p.m. every day during Glorious Fourth for our Glorious Fourth Grove Celebration in Prairietown. This historical ceremony honors veterans, displays the new 25-star flag, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and more.
• Enjoy live storytelling in Lenape Indian camp at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• The popular White River Guard Militia returns for a traditional reenactment in Prairietown.
• Stop by The Junction at Noon and 3 p.m. for Dissenting Voices which consists of two speeches, one by Richard Thatcher and the other by Helen Keller. This will provide historical dissenting views on the Fourth of July to showcase criticisms of America as old as the nation itself. This year’s Dissenting Voices focuses on the topic of social justice and Civil Rights.

Tickets for Glorious Fourth are free with general admission!