KIDS + FAMILIES

Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens Makes History Fun for Families at  the Fifth Annual July 4th Celebration at Bayou Bend. Enjoy an afternoon of free activities and performances Monday, July 4, 2011.

Start your Fourth of July at Bayou Bend, where America's Colonial era is celebrated in patriotic style. Ring in the holiday with an extravaganza of Americana—performers, crafts, activities, refreshments, and more—and don't forget to sign the Texas-sized Declaration of Independence before you leave!

With its unique blend of the arts and American history, Bayou Bend is the perfect place to spend Independence Day.

Sign the Declaration of Independence – use a quill pen and ink to add your signature to an oversized copy of Jefferson’s historic document. Make sure your signature is large enough for King George to read it without his glasses!

Reading of the Declaration & Cake – At 3:15 p.m., join us on Bayou Bend’s Diana Terrace for a reading of the Declaration of Independence, followed by a service of cake as we celebrate America’s birthday.

Soldiers of the Revolutionary War – Historical re-creator John Keahey and his team take you back to the American revolution as we look at the uniforms, equipment, and weapons used on both sides to fight the American Revolution.

Betsy Ross – Constance O’Brien performs her one-woman show on the life of Betsy Ross.

Craft Activities – Watercolor fireworks, make your own flag, and more!

Music Performances – Hear indigenously American styles of music from bluegrass to folk, and some good old brass band sound!

House Tours – Visit the first floor of the historic home to see furnishings and art that existed in cities like Philadelphia, Boston, Newport, and other major sites during the Revolutionary War.