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Experience the True Meaning of Independence Day with an All-American Celebration at Poplar Forest -

"That all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." 

The author of American independence, Thomas Jefferson was only 33-years old when he penned these words, inspiring a nation with the stroke of his hand and altering forever the course of human events. Jefferson firmly believed in celebrating America’s birthday— the birth of “my countries liberties.”

Jefferson’s beloved private retreat at Poplar Forest will come alive this July 4th with all the fun, festivities and historical significance of a birthday party for America.

Families around the country, history lovers, parents, grandparents and children of all ages are invited to Jefferson’s retreat, Poplar Forest, in Bedford County, Virginia on July 4th. Gates will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to celebrate America’s independence and feature the sights, sounds and stories from Jefferson’s time.

The signature Independence Day event is a stirring reading at 1:30 p.m. of the Declaration of Independence. The reading will take place on the back portico of Mr. Jefferson’s unique octagonal home, overlooking the retreat’s lawn.

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.

New Admission Price
In 2010 admission at the gate for adults will be $5.00. All children under 16 will be admitted for free. Food vendors will be on-site selling hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, SnoCones, BBQ, kettle corn and drinks. Interior tours of Jefferson’s house are available for a separate admission fee.
 
About Poplar Forest
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson's secluded plantation and retreat home, a National Historic Landmark and recently added to the U.S. nomination list to become a World Heritage Site. Undergoing award-winning restoration and archaeology, Poplar Forest is open April through November from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Closed Tuesdays and Thanksgiving Day. Call (434) 525-1806 or visit www.poplarforest.org for additional information.

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Poplar Forest is open to the public seven days a week, March 15 through December 15 (closed Thanksgiving Day). Group tours are available year-round by appointment.