For Immediate Release:

June 27, 2024

Media Contact:

Emily Klamm

pr@osv.org

Phone: (508) 347-0205

The Citizens Parade during Independence Celebration at Old Sturbridge Village.

Sturbridge, M.A. – Old Sturbridge Village is proud to announce the return of its annual Independence Celebration, taking place from July 4-7. This four-day event invites visitors to experience 19th -century rural New England traditions while enjoying an array of family-friendly activities and witnessing a citizen naturalization ceremony.

The festivities, which commence on July 4, will feature live fife and drum performances, cannon demonstrations, games, a parade, and more. A highlight of the celebration will be the citizen naturalization ceremony on Thursday, presented by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. During the ceremony, a group of candidates will take their Oath of Allegiance to the United States for the first time amidst the historic backdrop of Old Sturbridge Village.

“Independence Day at Old Sturbridge Village is always a cherished tradition,” said Jim Donahue, President & CEO of Old Sturbridge Village. “It’s incredible to see families and visitors come together to experience our nation’s history and traditions in a meaningful way.”

“Witnessing individuals pledge their allegiance and become citizens on the Fourth of July reinforces the enduring values of freedom and opportunity that our country was founded upon,” continued Donahue. “We are honored to be a part of this milestone moment in the lives of these new Americans.”

Independence Day Celebration is sponsored by Savers Bank. For more information on this year’s Independence Day Celebration, please visit https://www.osv.org/event/independence-celebration/.

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Fife and drum musicians during Independence Celebration at Old Sturbridge Village.

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About Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village, first opened to the public in 1946, is one of the country's oldest and largest living history museums, celebrating life in early New England from 1790-1840. It is the largest living history museum in the Northeast. More than 200,000 visitors interact with costumed historians each year, experience up-close demonstrations of early American trades, and meet heritage breed farm animals. Situated on 200 scenic acres, the Village is a collection of more than 40 historic buildings - including homes, meetinghouses, trade shops, working farms, restaurants, shops, and three water-powered mills.

Located just off the Massachusetts Turnpike and Routes I-84 and 20 in Sturbridge, Mass., Old Sturbridge Village is open year-round, but days and hours vary seasonally. Daily admission is: $30 for adults, $28 for seniors, $15 for College Students, $15 for children ages 4-17, and children 3 and under are admitted free. For details, visit https://www.osv.org/plan-your-visit/.