Patriots’ Day at Old Sturbridge Village | April 16 | 9:30 am – 4 pm

Patriots’ Day observances at Old Sturbridge Village will resound with the peal of bells, the stirring beat of drums and the thrilling call of the fife, as the Sturbridge Militia musters in the countryside on Monday, April 16. Special programs and activities throughout the day will invite visitors to experience the sights and sounds of our colonial ancestors as the Revolutionary War began.

Through military drills and maneuvers, musket demonstrations, and more, the members for the Sturbridge Militia will bring to life the stories of the men who hastened from their farms, homes, and families to march to the aid of those already engaged in the initial battle of the American Revolution against King George’s tyranny. Young visitors are invited to take part, wielding muskets and swords, learning to drill and march in the manner of the boys of ’76. “Muskets” are provided for this ever-popular exercise in leadership, bravery, and derring-do for small patriots. Witness the making of real musket balls in the Blacksmith Shop. Also joining us for the day will be the martial band and the visiting surgeon from the USS Constitution. Cannon demonstrations will be held in the morning and afternoon.

Not all Americans fought against the British crown; many sided with and pledged their allegiance to the king. They called themselves loyalists; to them, our patriots were rebels. On Monday meet one of those loyalists; he will tell you of his side of the conflict, oft times at the cost of hardship and heartache to him and his family.

How did the news of Lexington and Concord affect a small New England community? For a day of history, entertainment and discovery, visit Old Sturbridge Village on April 16 as we celebrate our nation’s beginning and continuing perseverance, in war and in peace.

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Old Sturbridge Village | 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge, MA 01566