Independence Day Celebration
July 4, 2010
Come with family and friends to experience Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest come alive with patriotism!
Independence Day at Poplar Forest is a perennial favorite for individuals and families throughout Virginia. In 2010, the celebration will run from 11:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. and will feature music, dance, living history interpreters, historic craft demonstrations, storytelling, interactive children’s games, pony rides and much more.
Don't miss Poplar Forest’s signature July 4th event at 1:30 p.m.: a fife and drum introduction to a stirring reading of the Declaration of Independence from Jefferson’s back portico.
Independence Day entertainment and activities include:
• The Itinerant Band and The McKenzies - These talented groups of musicians perform traditional musical entertainment before and after the reading of the Declaration.
• Virginia Academy of Historic Dance – A troupe of dancers who research, choreograph and perform the social dances which were part of Virginia's early cultural heritage.
• Otto and Tarot, the Sword Swallowers – Watch as they swallow real swords and consume fire before your very eyes in a thrilling show of comedy and courage.
• Fife and Drum Corps – A costumed 18th-century fife and drum corps performs the marching music of Jefferson’s time before the reading of the Declaration of Independence.
• “Thomas Jefferson’s Spirit of New London” – Delight in this hand-crafted reproduction of a Jefferson-era bateau that traveled the James River.
• Signora Bella – This hilarious 19th-century Italian street performer amazes audiences with feats of balance, juggling, slack rope walking and more.
• Historic craft demonstrations including flax dressing, spinning, lace-making, Native American crafts, pottery and blacksmithing; new this year Poplar Forest will feature a silversmith, cooper and hearth cooking demonstrations.
Children can to step back in time by trying on period clothing and participating in old-fashioned games like stick horse races, rolling hoops, and tug of war. Other children’s activities include interactive storytelling and pony rides.
Food vendors will be on-site selling hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, SnoCones, BBQ, kettle corn and drinks.
New Admission Price
In 2010 admission at the gate for adults will be $5.00. All children under 16 will be admitted for free.
House Tours (available for an additional fee):
$9.00 Adult/Senior
$2.00 Youth 6-18
Free 5 & Under
Please call (434) 534-8120 for additional information.
This event is generously sponsored by:
