The 250th Anniversary Heritage Quest: family scavenger hunt
Discover Wilton’s rich history firsthand with the Wilton 250 Heritage Passport, a town-wide scavenger hunt that takes you on an adventure to 24 historic markers. Simply follow the map to collect stamps at each location and earn a commemorative treat from Nelson’s Candy Shop to celebrate your journey through 250 years of community heritage.
Unlocking the Past: Wilton Historical Society Open House
Step inside a living time capsule and explore the hidden treasures of Wilton’s past at the Historical Society Open House. Wander through rooms filled with hand-labeled artifacts and centuries-old stories in the stunning setting of the library’s top floor!
Wilton Reads - “April Morning”
Trace the footsteps of a young hero through the smoke of Lexington in our community discussion of the revolutionary classic, April Morning. Come share your thoughts on this gripping tale of courage and coming-of-age at the Wilton Public & Gregg Free Library.
Colonial Cooking Demonstration
Step into the 1700s and discover the sights, scents, and flavors that sustained a revolution. Join historian Allyson Szabo for an evening of colonial culinary secrets and tasty samples that bring New Hampshire’s heritage to life.
Wall of Revolutionary War Flags Display
Experience the bold colors and defiant symbols of the American Spirit at our Revolutionary War Flags Display. Stand among the banners that led the charge for independence and discover the stories behind the icons that defined a new nation a large display of flags of the American Revolution along the hillside across from Main Street Park.
Who was Pomp Russell: Forgotten no More
This year, Wilton is honoring and including a soldier who has been left off of our Revolutionary War Memorial, Pomp Russell. Discover the incredible journey of a man who fought for a nation's freedom before he had his own, and see how his legacy shaped our town’s conscience.
Paws & Stories
Meet Chief Frechette and his loyal companion, Dora, the friendly duo dedicated to keeping Wilton safe and spirited. Whether they are patrolling the town or sharing a story at the Wilton Public & Gregg Free Library, this inseparable pair is always ready to bring a smile to neighbors of all ages.
Rebels & Redcoats: New Hampshire and the American Revolution
Discover the untold stories of the Granite State patriots who fueled the fire of revolution. Join New Hampshire Historical Society’s Mary Adams for a deep dive into the local legends, hard-fought battles, and the true spirit of New Hampshire's 'Rebels and Redcoats.'
1776: The Musical Film
Grab some popcorn, warm up your vocal cords, and step into the heat of 1776 as we bring the story of our nation’s birth to life with a spirited musical. Join your neighbors at the historic Wilton Town Hall Theatre for a night where history hits all the right notes!
Fuel the Celebration: The Fire Department Breakfast
Fuel up for a day of celebration at the Wilton Fire Department, where the Auxiliary serves up a hearty, home-cooked breakfast right alongside the trucks. It’s a beloved local tradition and the perfect way to gather with neighbors before diving into the Wilton 250 festivities.
Continental Army Encampment
Experience the daily life of a Revolutionary War soldier at Whiting Park, featuring live musket demonstrations and cannon fire by the 1st NH Regiment. This all-day encampment offers a rare, hands-on look at the courage and camp life of the longest-serving unit in the Continental Army.
Planting History: Liberty Tree Dedication
Join the Sons of the American Revolution at Whiting Park to revive a powerful symbol of American independence. We invite you to witness the planting of a new Liberty Tree, a living monument that honors our revolutionary roots and Wilton's enduring spirit.
Wilton Unites: Let Freedom Ring Procession
Carry the spirit of independence through the heart of town in a ¼ mile procession from Whiting Park to the War Memorial. Bring your own bell or arrive early to claim a limited-edition commemorative Wilton 250 bell to ring out in joyous celebration with your neighbors.
Honoring Pomp Russell: War Memorial Dedication
Join us for a historic unveiling as we add the name of Pomp Russell, a long-overlooked Black patriot and Wilton resident, to our Revolutionary War Memorial. This solemn ceremony honors his service and ensures that his legacy of courage is forever woven into the fabric of our town's history.
The Proclamation: Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Gather at the heart of town to hear the bold words that birthed a nation during a live, community reading of the Declaration of Independence. Witness history come alive as we honor our founding principles in a powerful tribute to 250 years of American liberty.
The Main Street Jubilee
Celebrate on Main Street with live music, face painting, and complimentary cotton candy. Don't forget to bring an item to screen-print with an exclusive, student-designed commemorative logo to take a piece of Wilton’s 250th history home with you.
The Jubilee Jam: Pine Mountain Bluegrass Band
Start the afternoon’s celebrations with a bang as the Pine Mountain Bluegrass Band fills Main Street with the high-speed energy of traditional American bluegrass. From virtuosic banjo picking to soaring harmonies, it’s a foot-stomping musical kick-off you won’t want to miss!
Farm & Craft Market
Stroll along the river and discover a treasure trove of local flavors and handmade crafts at our open-air market. With live Celtic music in the air and the best of Wilton’s harvests on display, it’s the perfect place to soak up the festive town spirit!
1776 Games for Children
Unplug and travel back in time for an afternoon of colonial-style competition and 'low-tech' thrills! From hoop-rolling to classic lawn games, come see how much fun the 1700s can be at the 1776 Games for Children.
Behind Bars: Historic Jail Cell Tour
Unlock the secrets of Wilton’s past with a rare, guided descent into the historic iron-barred jail cells of our original police station. Join Dick Putnam for an atmospheric journey through 19th-century justice that you won't find on any ordinary map!
Whispering Walls and Soaring Pines: A Heritage Hike
Come explore some of the trails of this 227-acre Nature Conservancy property right here in Wilton. Learn about the old-growth stands of white pines that soar over 150 feet and see where hardwoods have stood for centuries.
Johnny Tremain: Family Matinee
Witness the spark of revolution through the eyes of a young hero in Disney’s timeless adventure, Johnny Tremain. Bring the whole family to the Wilton Town Hall Theatre for an afternoon of history, heart, and the daring deeds that shaped America
Jubilee bandstand: The Temple Band
Experience over 200 years of musical tradition as The Temple Band takes the stage in full Colonial attire for a spirited community concert. From Broadway favorites to stirring patriotic marches, come hear the sounds that have defined our region for generations!
Jubilee BBQ: Afternoon Cookout
Follow the savory scent of woodsmoke to the heart of the celebration for an afternoon of great food and live music. This community BBQ is available to purchase on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to stop by early and grab a plate!
1776: The Musical Film
Grab some popcorn, warm up your vocal cords, and step into the heat of 1776 as we bring the story of our nation’s birth to life with a spirited musical. Join your neighbors at the historic Wilton Town Hall Theatre for a night where history hits all the right notes!
Under Wilton’s Stars: A 250th Anniversary Skywatch
Experience the wonder of Wilton’s dark skies as we journey through the cosmos with high-powered telescopes and expert guidance. Come discover the same celestial beauty that has watched over our town for 250 years.
A Cinematic Masterpiece: “America” with Live Piano
Witness the drama of the Revolution come to life as silent film masterpiece America meets a powerful live orchestral score performed by composer Jeff Rapsis. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind sensory journey through our nation's birth.