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Old Sturbridge Village, Independence Day
July 2 - July 4
Welcoming New Citizens
On July 4th only, watch and be inspired by a citizen naturalization ceremony on the Village common. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will present 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.
Firing the Cannon
An exciting feature of the Independence Day festivities is the firing of our reproduction cannon. There were 46 militia units armed with cannons in Massachusetts in the 1830s and one of them was located in here in Sturbridge. These units fired their cannons on militia training days and during celebrations, like the 4th of July. Our cannon has a cast-iron barrel and is mounted on a carriage made by Village artisans.
Celebratory Song and Dance
On Saturday, July 2nd, hear special performances by the Old Sturbridge Village Singers and on Sunday, July 3rd, catch the Old Sturbridge Village Dancers demonstrate 1830s-style dances. (Subject to change)
“Declaring Independence” Returns
Six costumed interpreters will render the words of the Declaration line by line, assisted by a narrator who sets these words in their rich historical context. Some lines will be familiar to all; others – especially the many grievances that justified altering an ancient government – will receive background and commentary. As the interpreters dramatize these 18th-century words and ideas, the narrator will draw out their meaning and challenge the audience to consider their relevance and power for today.
“Declaring Independence” is part of a multi-year joint initiative of Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area and the American Antiquarian Society to engage citizens in the ideas and transformative potential of the Declaration of Independence. This initiative includes researching the ways in which independence was conceived and debated within colonial communities in the years leading up to 1776; tracing how the Declaration’s role evolved in American communities; and considering the challenges and potential of this living document for Americans today.
Tickets
Click here to get tickets for Saturday, July 2nd
Click here to get tickets for Sunday, July 3rd
Click here to get tickets for Monday, July 4th
Ox and Yoke Mercantile (Located outside the Visitor Center)
Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at our new Ox & Yoke Mercantile, where you’ll find upscale Village-made crafts and designs that work in the modern-day. Take home traditional rural New England treasures, mixing the old with the contemporary for a Village-inspired look. Locally-made gifts for every occasion including, home décor, bath and body, books, unique food items, Village-made crafts and kits, gardening supplies, children’s books, toys, and so much more! In celebration of opening, we also have several special in-store events happening on July 2nd! See below for details.
The Ox and Yoke Mercantile will be open 10:00 am – 5:30 pm on days when the Village is open! Stay tuned for special holiday hours too.
As always, members of Old Sturbridge Village receive a 10% discount on all regular price merchandise when they show their membership ID. Not a member? Join today!
Free Whimsical Tote Bag Giveaway
Customers who make a purchase of $50 or more at Ox & Yoke will receive a FREE whimsical Old Sturbridge Village tote bag! Available while supplies last; offer valid July 2nd – 4th, 2022.
