The Arlington Historical Society will celebrate the nation’s 248th birthday with a bell-ringing at the Arlington Historical Museum on Thursday, July 4 at 5 p.m.
“We’ll be doing this alongside bells all over the state,” said Annette Benbow, who is leading the Arlington effort to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.
The museum, housed in the former Hume School, is located at 1805 South Arlington Ridge Road.
As part of the statewide effort, the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) will kick off a “moment of unity” at the Virginia State Capitol Bell Tower.
“The historic bell will toll 13 times, symbolizing the original 13 colonies that won their independence,” officials said.
“VA250 aims to create a truly unforgettable Fourth of July celebration that resonates throughout the commonwealth,” said Cheryl Wilson, executive director of VA250. “Imagine the joyous sounds of bells echoing everywhere, reminding us of the shared history and values that bind us together.”
In 1963, Congress and President Kennedy officially established “National Bell-Ringing Day.” Communities, firehouses, places of worship, public carillons, cemeteries and all residents across Virginia are encouraged to participate, livestream and tag their bell-ringing using #VA250.
