The City of Taunton and the Old Colony History Museum are inviting the community to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary on Wednesday, July 8, with an evening of Revolutionary War history, live entertainment, family activities and a fireworks finale.
The free celebration begins at 5 p.m. at the Old Colony History Museum, where visitors can explore the Voices of the Revolution exhibit, meet colonial re-enactors, enjoy patriotic music by The Unlikely Strummers, and participate in quill writing and children’s crafts.
At 6 p.m., the museum will host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence as part of a statewide commemoration marking the first public reading of the document in Massachusetts on July 8, 1776.
Festivities continue at Hopewell Park beginning at 7 p.m. with a patriotic performance by the Southeastern Massachusetts Festival Chorus. Families can enjoy complimentary water, popcorn and glow sticks for children, while ice cream and kettle corn will be available for purchase. The evening concludes with a fireworks display at 9 p.m.
Mayor Shaunna O’Connell said the celebration offers residents and visitors an opportunity to honor the nation’s history while bringing the community together for a family-friendly evening. Old Colony History Museum Executive Director Katie MacDonald said the event highlights Taunton’s Revolutionary heritage and encourages the public to reflect on the ideals that shaped the nation.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets. The event is free and open to the public.
