06/04/2026
On Saturday, July 4, 2026, America will mark its 250th birthday, and there are big plans underway for a loud, exuberant commemoration taking place across the country. Rather than the booming explosions of public fireworks and ceremonial cannons, listen for the resonant chorus of church, cathedral, and school bells at exactly 2:50pm. 🔔🔔🔔Carillons and bells across the country will peal 13 times, a homage to the first American colonies. Wherever you are, please take a short break to listen out for bells ringing. When you hear their sound, pause for a moment to appreciate our unique history and our country’s storied beginnings. Count each chime with gratitude. Better yet, find a bell of your own and ring it with pride.
Here at the Hershey History Center, we’ve got a bell of our own to ring. It’s a relic from an old trolley that we aim to dust off, polish, and ring with gusto. If you’re in the neighborhood that day, please stop by.
