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Explore culture, history, nature, and more at virtual events or events at The National Parks Store. To find events among the 70+ national parks that partner with Western National Parks Association, visit the Discover Our Parks page and choose a partner park.
The public is invited to join the inhabitants of Bent’s Old Fort on Monday, July 4 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm to celebrate American Independence during the 2023 Old-Fashioned 4th Celebration.
The 4th of July was one of the few holidays celebrated across the country in the 1840s. The victory over the British in the War for Independence was still only a few generations in the past, and the War of 1812, which some Americans considered “a second battle for Independence” was but a few decades earlier.
The holiday will be commemorated at the fort in “1840s-style” with orations, games, and a historic weapons demonstration. Some of the cross-cultural nature of the fort will be shown with a piñata break. A replica flag that has flown over the fort will also be given away through a drawing.
We recommend visitors to come early to avoid a long line when paying entrance fees. Please be prepared for the weather with comfortable shoes, protection from the sun, and plenty of water.