Independence Day Celebration

Join us this Fourth of July welcoming ALL ages for live music, historic demonstrations, and more!

Did you know that Old Salem was the site of the first Independence Day celebration in North Carolina?

In 1783, Governor Alexander Martin declared July 4th to be a day of thanksgiving and peace as Salem residents shared in food, fellowship, and celebration.

Live Music

The Guilford Courthouse
Fife and Drum Corps

Costumed Moravian
Brass Band

Appalachian Strings

Listen to authentic Revolutionary War era music while learning how troops utilized music as a communication tool during the war.

Location: Salem Square
Time: 10:00 AM

Hear the same songs composed for worship by Moravian composers that Salem residents listened to in their weekly services!

Location: Salem Square
Time: 11:00 AM

Enjoy the melodies of the mountain dulcimer, originating in the Appalachian Mountains in the early 1800s.


Location: The Single Brother’s House
Time: Afternoon

Historic Demonstrations

Fire Bucket Brigade

Historic Firearms

Frozen Treat Making

Timothy Vogler Gun Shop
Miksch House demonstration

See how early firefighters in Salem handled fires prior to the use of hand-pumped fire engines!


Location: Salem Square
11:30 AM | 1:30 PM | 2:30 PM

Enjoy a demonstration of the type of firearms that were both created and used in Salem.


Location: Tavern Meadow
11:00 AM l 12:00 PM
2:00 PM l 3:00 PM

Stop by the Vogler House for a look into how the citizens of Salem made one of America’s most beloved sweet treats.

Location: Vogler House

Declaration of Independence

Throughout the day, join us for a reading of the Declaration of Independence on the 249th anniversary of its signing.

Location: Salem Square
11:00 AM | 12:00 PM | 2:00 PM | 3:00 PM

Guided Tours

After the 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM readings of the Declaration of Independence, join one of our costumed interpreters for a guided tour of Old Salem!

ALL activities are included with your standard ticket purchase, so be sure to reserve your place today.
Click here!

Interested in seeing what Old Salem has to offer year-round? Click here to learn more about Membership at Old Salem and receive a FREE exclusive t-shirt with membership purchase!