Independence Day Weekend at Old World Wisconsin

Independence Day Weekend at Old World Wisconsin

Celebrate Independence Day Weekend at Old World Wisconsin with patriotic parades, a pie-eating contest, historic baseball, live music and hands-on activities for all ages! As America’s 250th birthday and Old World Wisconsin’s 50th anniversary are celebrated together over a festive and fun-filled weekend, bring the whole family to make memories in the summer sunshine.

Old World Wisconsin is a 600-acre living history attraction that comes alive with the sights and sounds of the holiday. Enjoy live brass band performances, join a stroller-friendly participant parade, cheer on (or compete in!) the always-popular pie-eating contest, and listen to a stirring reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Base ball, pie and other red, white and blue delights; come celebrate America’s birthday at Old World Wisconsin! Suit up in your best patriotic gear and head to the Crossroads Village for an unforgettable Independence Day Weekend full of food, games, music, performances and more. Join a spelling bee, churn your own butter, watch (or deck out your stroller and take part in) a children’s parade, and enter our famous pie-eating event for a little healthy—or should we say sweet—competition.

And that’s just the beginning of a weekend filled with fun for everyone!

Children’s Parade: Don’t just watch a parade this Independence season; join one! Kids and parents can show off their patriotic pride walking through Old World with flags in hand or grab some decals and trick out your very own stars and stripes stroller!

Independence Weekend Picnic: Need a bite between the festivities? Fill your plate with picnic food favorites at the reopened Clausing Cafe!

Spelling Bee: What’s more American than a classic spelling bee? Show off your skill as you compete against other would-bee spelling champs this Independence Day Weekend.

Butter Churning: Join in on festive butter making at Old World! Take part in the art of old-fashioned butter churning alongside friends and family as you learn the process behind this early American tradition.

Meet the Mayor: Independence Day Weekend isn’t complete if you haven’t had a chance to shake the hand of the Crossroads Village mayor! First, grab a snapshot for socials… then, stick around for a reading of the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Four Mile House.

Live Music, Games, and Entertainment: The signature events are just the start of an unforgettable July 4th celebration! Hear live music, take part in lawn games and discover all sorts of entertaining activities as you make your way through the Crossroads Village.

50th Anniversary Brew: Raise a celebratory pint at Wittnebel’s Tavern with an Old World Wisconsin 50th anniversary brew

July 4 – July 5, 2026 | 10 AM – 4 PM

• A special Independence Day Weekend with more activities, experiences and fun in honor of Old World Wisconsin’s 50th anniversary and America’s 250th anniversary!
• Pie-eating contests, wagon rides, historic baseball, spelling bees and ice cream making
• A selection of rousing tunes performed by the Madison Brass Band
• A new Old World Wisconsin 50th Anniversary Exhibit showcasing the history of the site from 1976 to now
• A chance to explore the all-new Old World Wisconsin Welcome Center
• A patriotic reading of the Declaration of Independence
• A 50th and 250th anniversary parade—join in with flags, wagons and more!
• Unique holiday merchandise at the Welcome Center Gift Shop
• Holiday-inspired food at the reopened Clausing Cafe
• Raise a celebratory pint at Wittnebel’s Tavern with an Old World Wisconsin 50th anniversary brew plus specialty tastings and cocktails
• Time Travel Tokens that can be redeemed for souvenirs, gifts, treats and more

COST for Independence Day Weekend at Old World Wisconsin

Adult (18-64): $24
Teen (13-17): $24
Senior (65+): $20
Children (5-12): $16
Child Under 5: Free
Members: Free

Purchase your tickets in advance.

Wisconsin Historical Society members receive FREE general admission to Old World Wisconsin and a 10% discount on ticketed events. Become a member and save!

Find more 4th of July festivities, fireworks, and parades in our 4th of July Guide.

Find more FREE SUMMER FUN and our Bucket List: 77 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER!

Find ALL THINGS SUMMER.