Gov. Andy Beshear is inviting Kentuckians to “Kentucky Celebrates America250” on from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (ET) on July 4 at the Kentucky Historical Society campus, 100 West Broadway, in historic downtown Frankfort.
“Our nation’s 250th birthday is a great opportunity to come together as Americans and celebrate the values that unite us, and the people and stories that have shaped our nation and our commonwealth,” Beshear said. “From history to live music to family activities and fireworks, this event offers something for everyone.”
Beginning at 10 a.m., as part of the free, family-friendly event, guests can explore KHS’s Martin F. Schmidt Research Library, Commonwealth Hall, the Keeneland Gallery, the Old State Capitol grounds and the Capital Plaza Hotel Green Space.
Highlights throughout the day include:
- Live music performances, including Walker Montgomery, Kentucky Blue, the Louisville Orchestra, Dr. Everett McCorvey and Ben Sollee.
- Kids’ activities in the Cralle Day Garden, including games, giant checkers, Jenga, cornhole and free hot dogs (while supplies last.
- Tours of downtown landmarks and historic cemeteries.
- Keeneland Gallery talks on Daniel Boone, the Burgoyne Cannon and the Weight of Old Glory.
- Special exhibition tours of A Kentucky Journey and Civil War Governors of Kentucky.
- An Oral History Listening Booth, a free copy of the Register of the Kentucky Historical Society and a scavenger hunt.
- Hands-on History Passports for collecting stamps across all activity stations.
- Quill-and-ink signings of a replica Declaration of Independence.
- Kentucky Corps of Longriflemen firing demonstrations.
- Gallery talks on topics ranging from the Civil War to Kentucky fashion.
- Chautauqua Performances featuring Henry Clay, Charlotte Dupuy, Abraham Lincoln and Loretta Lynn.
The event will end with a fireworks finale set to music.
For the full event lineup and more information, go to history.ky.gov.
Tom Latek has been the Frankfort correspondent for Kentucky Today, the online news website of the Kentucky Baptist Convention, since 2016. Previously, he covered news for radio and television stations in Frankfort, Lexington, and Louisville.
