American Independence Festival

Woman in colonial attire guides children playing a board game on a table outdoors.
Woman in colonial attire guides children playing a board game on a table outdoors.
On Saturday, July 12th, from 10 am to 4 pm, downtown Exeter comes alive for the 34th American Independence Festival—a free celebration honoring the arrival of the Declaration of Independence to New Hampshire in 1776.
Enjoy a live reenactment of the Declaration’s arrival, explore colonial-era crafts and games, and meet historical interpreters like George Washington. Visit the American Independence Museum, tour a historic tavern, and relax in the local beer garden.
It’s a fun, family-friendly way to experience Exeter’s history, just steps from your stay.