Keeseville 250 Committee requesting participation in upcoming celebration

KEESEVILLE | Communities across the United States are gearing up for the America250 celebration, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, and a local vibrant committee released a letter asking for community leaders, educators, faith organizations, local businesses, and more to participate in some way in a historic celebration of the town's very own. Last month, the Keeseville 250 Committee met in the Town of Chesterfield office on Vine Street for the first time this year to not only gather and discuss new ideas, but also begin to solidify them for this week-long celebration, from July 19 (the last day of the Keeseville Plein Air Festival) through July 26. So far, the committee is set to host a larger-scale celebration over the weekend, featuring a parade on Sunday, fireworks on Saturday evening, and more. The parade will be historical or patriotic-themed, starting at either the elementary school or the fire station and ending at JC Park, where the committee plans to organize a farmers' market, craft fair, community picnic, games, and live music. "Many thanks to the Keeseville Elks, Keeseville Knights of Columbus, Keeseville VFW, Keeseville AMVETS, Mountain Lake Services, and Mr. Dingaling for jumping on the bandwagon," wrote Town of Chesterfield Clerk Bruce Bourgeois, who is also chair of the Keeseville 250 Committee, in the letter that not only promoted this historical event, but also called for more participation. "We are welcoming whoever wants to join in with any ideas or just wants to be part of the celebration." At the time this article was written, six vendors were secured for the craft fair, but more are welcome and encouraged to sign up. The committee is also on the hunt for floats, bands, marching groups, organizations, cars, or just individuals who want to participate in the parade. Those interested in participating may also do so by hosting a program, performance, meal, or activity; organizing a competition, race, or game; sponsoring an event; contributing prizes; volunteering; or even suggesting new ideas. Other ideas currently being circulated and considered include historic boat tours to Crab Island, a time capsule, and a contest to design a celebratory button for the festivities. While in the preliminary planning stages, the committee decided to try to keep the celebration's weekdays open for now, hopeful that other local organizations or individuals will come up with events they would like to host. "I anticipate that organizations like the Ausable Valley Grange, Knights of Columbus, and Memorial VFW Post 1505 will do something special over the week, but each organization has to decide what they're going to do. That will be up to them," clarified Bourgeois in a previous interview. "But regardless of what happens, there's going to be a lot of big celebrations not just in Keeseville, but everywhere, all over the country." This year, the U.S. will mark an extraordinary milestone: 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. In honor of this important milestone, communities across the country will come together to celebrate, including several in New York. Throughout the state, historic sites, museums, battlefields, and attractions will open their doors for a variety of events, which can be listed on the 250 Commemoration events calendar on the I Love NY website. "There's a lot of excitement building up, and the puzzle pieces are starting to fall into place," Bourgeois said. "This summer is definitely going to be big." To stay informed about plans, volunteer opportunities, and announcements, check out the Facebook page "Keeseville 250 Celebration." To share ideas or ask questions, contact Mary Hughes at 518-645-0881 or Bruce Burgeois at 518-802-7797.

Signup for our newsletter

Keeseville 250 Committee requesting participation in upcoming celebration

COMPANY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

SUBMISSION FORMS

BEYOND THE NEWS