Celebrating the 250th Anniversary

Communities across New Hampshire came together this July to celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary, with one of the state’s signature events taking place in historic Exeter. Thousands of residents and visitors gathered for the American Independence Festival, featuring colonial reenactments, a live reading of the Declaration of Independence, artisan demonstrations, family activities, live music, and an evening fireworks display over Swasey Parkway. The annual celebration commemorates the arrival of the Declaration of Independence to New Hampshire in July 1776, making Exeter a fitting location to honor the nation’s milestone anniversary.

This year’s celebration served as both a tribute to the nation’s founding and a reminder of New Hampshire’s important role in American history. As one of the first capitals of the state during the Revolutionary era, Exeter remains closely connected to the events that shaped the United States. Throughout the weekend, families, veterans, local organizations, and historical interpreters came together to celebrate 250 years of American independence, reflecting on the nation’s past while inspiring future generations to appreciate the values of freedom, service, and community.