VA250 leads statewide bell-ringing ceremony for Fourth of July
Contact:
Mike Frontiero
mfrontiero@va250.virginia.gov
804-823-9016
RICHMOND, VA (June 27, 2024) – Virginians are invited to join in a historic statewide bell-ringing ceremony this Fourth of July as America gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday.
On July 4th at precisely 5:00 pm, the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) will kick off a powerful moment of unity at the Virginia State Capitol Bell Tower. The historic bell will toll 13 times, symbolizing the original 13 colonies that won their independence.
“VA250 aims to create a truly unforgettable Fourth of July celebration that resonates throughout the Commonwealth,” Executive Director Cheryl Wilson said. “Imagine the joyous sounds of bells echoing everywhere, reminding us of the shared history and values that bind us together.”
The ceremony invites Virginians to join a long-standing tradition. Town halls, firehouses, places of worship, public carillons, cemeteries, and all citizens are encouraged to participate, livestream, and tag their bell-ringing using #VA250. In 1963, President John F. Kennedy officially established “National Bell Ringing Day” through U.S. Congressional Resolution Number 25, uniting the nation through the sounds of freedom – a tradition echoing the founders’ celebrations.
Participating locations include:
- Arlington – Arlington Historical Museum
- Botetourt County – Botetourt Preservation Partnership – churches
- Campbell County – Red Hill
- Fairfax County – Historic Pohick Church
- Isle of Wight County – old Isle of Wight Courthouse
- Northern Neck
- Irvington Baptist Church
- Yeocomico Church
- Nomini Church
- St. James-Tidwells
- Patrick County – Patrick County Branch Library
- Pulaski County – Wilderness Road Regional Museum, Historic Belle-Hampton Farm and local churches
- Richmond – Historic Bell Tower
- Salem – Salem Civic Center
- Suffolk – Suffolk Waterfront
The bell-ringing is part of VA250’s grand Fourth of July celebration at the State Capitol, honoring America’s founding and the spirit of freedom. Confirmed speakers and performers include:
Speakers:
- Master of Ceremonies: Geoff Bennett, PBS News Hour Co-Anchor
- Governor of Virginia Glenn Youngkin and First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin
- Speaker Don Scott, Virginia House of Delegates
- Carly Fiorina, VA250 National Honorary Chair
- Delegate Terry Austin, VA250 Commission Chair
- Senator Mamie Locke, VA250 Commission Vice Chair
- Chief Stephen Adkins, Chickahominy Indian Tribe
Performers:
- Thomas Jefferson as portrayed by Kurt Smith of Colonial Williamsburg
- Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums
- The DAY Program
- Quantico Marine Band
- Roanoke Symphony Orchestra & Chorus
- New Fellowship Gospel Choir
- Virginia’s Tribal Nations
- Drone light show by Grucci
Click here to RSVP.
About the VA250 Commission
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) was established to commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence. Its mission is to educate Virginians about their history and civic duty by hosting events and programs that tell Virginia’s complete story in shaping the nation. Sign up for VA250’s newsletter to discover events happening in your community.
