East Haddam Needs Volunteers for America's 250th Birthday

East Haddam is planning something special for America's 250th birthday, and everyone's invited to help make history come alive.

The town is seeking volunteers for a daylong celebration on July 11, 2026, marking the nation's Semiquincentennial. The event will feature a historic reading and community signing of the Declaration of Independence, live music, food trucks, and activities that transport visitors back to 1776.

"This event offers a unique opportunity for East Haddam residents and the community at large to become part of history," said Todd Gelston, the town's First Selectman. The celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic First Church Meeting House on Route 151.

Volunteers can choose from roles like event guides, parking assistants, activity monitors, and setup crews. Whether you have a few hours or the whole day, there's a spot waiting for you.

Here's where it gets fun: volunteers are encouraged to dress as their favorite Revolutionary War figure or wear red, white, and blue. Imagine George Washington helping with parking or Betsy Ross monitoring the water station.

The Ripple Effect

East Haddam played an important role in the American Revolution, and this celebration honors that heritage while creating new memories for future generations. When communities gather to celebrate shared history, they strengthen the bonds that hold neighborhoods together.

By volunteering, residents aren't just helping run an event. They're teaching children about the founding of our nation, preserving local history, and showing that civic participation still matters in 2026.

The town has made volunteering easy with sign-up forms available at the Municipal Complex, libraries, and post offices. You can also contact the First Selectman's Office at (860) 873-5021 or email admin@easthaddam.org.

Weekly volunteer meetings are happening, but attendance isn't required. The committee simply wants willing hands and enthusiastic hearts to help showcase East Haddam's founding story.

This is more than a birthday party for America—it's a chance for one small Connecticut town to show what community spirit looks like in action.