Are We There Yet?
For the American Village in Montevallo, Independence Day means red, white and blue family fun, food, and fireworks. This year will be America’s 249th Birthday – just one year until the big semiquincentennial celebration (America’s 250th Birthday). Independence Day is a unique opportunity for all of us to rededicate ourselves and our families’ efforts toward learning more about our country and fostering a renewed sense of patriotism and pride. And what better place to jump start on that than the American Village!
Enjoy more than 50 patriotic activities throughout the day – music and dance, games, encounters with patriots of the past – including George and Martha Washington, Alexander and Eliza Hamilton, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Samuel Adams – the battle at Concord Bridge, and fireworks at twilight’s last gleaming! Visit more than 20 historically-inspired buildings such as Washington Hall, the Colonial Courthouse, the Colonial Chapel, replicas of the President’s Oval Office and the East Room of The White House, and a replica of Concord Bridge. Hands-on activities for children include cornhole toss, hula hoops, Jenga, sidewalk chalk art, and a farm animal petting area. A face painter and balloon artist will also be in the children’s area. 
Come hungry! 18 food trucks will be on-site serving everything from hot dogs, burgers, po boys, BBQ, shaved ice, ice cream, lemonade, and root beer. Planning for the big day begins months in advance. Communications Officer Melanie Poole says, “We take July 5th off, then begin working toward the next Independence Day.” Dozens of volunteers drive shuttles, hand out programs, give directions, help in the gift shop, and man each building. American Village gates open at 11 a.m. on July 4, 2025 and programming is offered from 11:15 a.m. through evening fireworks at 9 p.m. No entry is allowed after 8 p.m. Admission is $10. Veterans, active military and children ages 4 and under are free. To learn more and find details about the new Independence Day VIP Pass available for $150, visit www.americanvillage.org. †
