Illinois state historic sites in downtown Springfield will celebrate Independence Day on Friday, July 4 with free activities, including art, history programs, hands-on crafts and special tours.
Children ages 5-15 can create tie-dye T-shirts on the north lawn of the Old State Capitol at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required on Eventbrite. Children can also make crafts and participate in other hand-on activities while supplies last.
The Illinois State Museum will present “The History Behind the Donner-Reed Party” at the Old State Capitol at noon and 3 p.m. The program explores why the group left Springfield and their dreams for a future in California. Reservations are recommended on the Old State Capitol’s Eventbrite website.
The Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site will offer special tours at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. highlighting the home’s architectural features and providing visitors with a deeper look beyond the site’s standard tour.
Visitors can explore the Noir 6 art exhibition at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site. The free exhibit features artwork by 26 Black artists exploring the Black experience of the past and hopes for the future.
To learn more or register for these programs, visit the Springfield state historic sites website or email dnr.historicspringfield@illinois.gov.
