Declaration 250 Celebration to Bring Three Days of History, Music & Patriotism to Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay will take center stage as the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration continues with Declaration 250, a three-day event from Friday, July 31st through Sunday, August 2nd, honoring America’s founding while celebrating the island’s rich historical significance.

Hosted on the grounds of Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, the weekend combines living history, military traditions, nationally recognized musical performances and a special appearance by The Ohio State University Marching Pep Band.

The celebration begins Friday at noon with the opening of Freedom Village, an interactive historical experience featuring living history demonstrations. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet descendants of America’s founding families, along with portrayals of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, beginning at 3 p.m.

At 4 p.m., the Bristol County Fifes & Drums will perform traditional colonial music before local favorites Bob Gatewood & Calabash take the stage at 7 p.m. Friday evening concludes with Queen Tribute band Bohemian Queen, featuring vocalist Paulie Z portraying Freddie Mercury, performing at 8 p.m.

Saturday’s festivities continue with another afternoon of historical programming. Visitors can once again meet descendants and Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln beginning at 3 p.m., followed by the Bristol County Fifes & Drums at 4 p.m.

One of Saturday’s highlights will be the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, performing at 5 p.m. The ceremonial unit, known for preserving the military traditions of the Revolutionary War era, will provide a fitting tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.

Bob Gatewood & Calabash return to the stage at 7 p.m., with classic rock icons Jefferson Starship closing out Saturday night’s entertainment with an 8 p.m. concert.

Sunday shifts the spotlight to one of Ohio’s most recognizable traditions as The Ohio State University Marching Pep Band arrives on the island.

Freedom Village reopens at 10 a.m., followed by another Bristol County Fifes & Drums performance at noon.

The Ohio State University Marching Pep Band is scheduled to arrive at 2 p.m. before leading a parade along Bayview Avenue to Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial from approximately 2:05 to 2:15 p.m. The band will then perform from 2:20 to 2:45 p.m., immediately followed by the event’s official opening ceremonies at the monument.

With thousands expected to attend throughout the weekend, organizers are encouraging visitors to take advantage of extended ferry service. Miller Boat Line will operate additional late-night passenger-only departures from Put-in-Bay throughout the celebration, while Jet Express will also offer late-night passenger service to the mainland, allowing visitors to enjoy the evening concerts before returning home.

Declaration 250 commemorates the nation’s 250th anniversary while highlighting Put-in-Bay’s important place in American history. With Revolutionary War music, living history exhibits, military ceremonial performances, nationally recognized concerts and one of college football’s most famous marching bands, the weekend promises to be one of the island’s signature events of the summer.

For a complete schedule of events and additional visitor information, go to visitputinbay.com.