Wilton Celebrates America's 250th
May 9, 2026
And the Week Leading up to It
This May, Wilton isn’t just celebrating its place in the American story—we’re bringing it to life. Throughout town, stories will unfold and traditions will shine as neighbors, families, and friends come together to honor those who built Wilton - and the spirit that continues to shape it today.
Hear the echoes of Revolutionary history. Share laughter over a meal. Dance with your neighbors. Make new memories where so many have come before. This is more than a celebration—it’s a rare and meaningful moment to stand shoulder to shoulder, feel the pride of our shared roots, and be part of the story we’re still writing together.
Come join us. Come be part of it.
Family-Friendly Activities
Ignite a sense of wonder in the next generation. Embark on a family scavenger hunt through Wilton’s hidden history, watch a period film at The Town Hall Theatre, or let the kids discover the simple joy of 1776-style games.
Living History & Tributes
Feel the past come alive. Experience the thunder of musket fire and roar of cannons, then join us for a powerful, quiet moment of reflection as we finally unveil a long-overlooked hero’s name on the Revolutionary War Memorial.
Community Spirit
Feel the heartbeat of our town. Gather for a classic firehouse breakfast, find your spot in the crowd for the Let Freedom Ring Procession, and enjoy the local bands that provide the soundtrack to our shared celebration.
This is a free celebration for everyone. Come for the history, stay for the stories, and help us inspire the next generation. We can’t wait to celebrate 250 years of independence with you.
Events-
Wall of Revolutionary War Flags Display On the hillside across from the Main Street Park
- May 6-9, dawn to duskDance Through History: A Contra Dance Kick off the weekend’s festivities with an open air contra dance
-May 8, 5:30-7:30pmFuel the Celebration: The Fire Department Breakfast A hearty home-cooked breakfast alongside our trucks
- May 9, 7:00-10:00amContinental Army Encampment All day living history encampment at Whiting Park
- May 9, 9:00am-3:00pmPlanting History: Liberty Tree Dedication A living monument honoring our revolutionary roots
- May 9, 10:00amWilton Unites: Let Freedom Ring Procession Community bell ringing in joyous celebration from Whiting Park to Main Street
- May 9, 10:30-11:15amHonoring Pomp Russell: War Memorial Dedication Honoring the long-overlooked Wilton patriot, Pomp Russell
- May 9, 11:15am-12:00pmThe Proclamation: Reading of the Declaration of Independence Hear the bold words that birthed our nation 250 years ago
- May 9 (as part of the Memorial Ceremony)Main Street Jubilee Face painting, candle dipping, card making, screen printing and cotton candy to name a few
- May 9: 12:30-3:00pm1776 Games for Children Travel back in time to colonial style competition
- May 9, 12:30-3:00pmJubilee Jam: Pine Mountain Bluegrass BandTraditional American bluegrass music
- May 9, 12:30-3:00pmFarm & Craft Market Open air market with live Celtic music
- May 9, 12:30-3:00pmBehind Bars: Historic Jail Cell Tour Descend into the historic iron-barred jail cells of our original police station
- May 9, 1:00-2:00pmJubilee Bandstand: The Temple Band Spirited community concert
- May 9, 3:00-5:00pmJubilee BBQ: Afternoon Cookout Chicken BBQ, Desserts and Drinks
- May 9, 3:00-5:00pm -
Unlocking the Past: Wilton Historical Society Open House Explore the collections and exhibits
- May 2, 9:30am-1:30pmWilton Reads - April Morning Community discussion of a Revolutionary War classic
- May 2, 10:00amColonial Cooking Demonstration Culinary secrets and and tasty samples with Allyson Szabo
- May 5, 7:00pmWho was Pomp Russell: Forgotten No More Wilton’s Revolutionary War Memorial Honoree, with Judy Granger
- May 6, 7:00pmPaws & Stories Thematic story time with Police Chief Frechette and his loyal sidekick Dora
- May 7, 3:30pmRebels & Redcoats NH Humanities Council presentation on NH’s role in the Revolutionary War
- May 7, 7:00pm -
1776: The Musical Film A tuneful, patriotic journey
- May 8th and 9th, 7:30pmJohnny Tremain: Family Matinee Disney’s timeless Revolutionary War family film
- May 9th, 2:00 pmA Cinematic Masterpiece: “America” With Live PianoA silent film masterpiece meets a powerful live piano score
- May 10, 2:00pm -
250th Anniversary Heritage Quest: Family Scavenger Hunt An adventure that takes you to 24 Wilton historic markers
- April 25-May 9Drive Through History: Wilton’s Historic Homes Map Uncover the homes of Wilton’s past at your own pace.
- April 25-May 9Whispering Walls and Soaring Pines: A Heritage Hike. At the Sheldrick Forest
- May 9, 1:30pmUnder Wilton’s Stars: A 250th Anniversary Skywatch Celestial beauty at Carnival Hill Field
- May 9th, 8:30pmR&B Dignity Band at the American Legion Soul, blues, and community spirit come together to finish our day's celebrations
- May 9, 7:00pm