Norwalk Public Library Marks America's 250th Anniversary With July Events

NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Public Library invites the community to celebrate America's 250th birthday with a patriotic lineup of programs, activities and more.

According to a news release provided by the library, residents are invited to enjoy educational programs, family activities, historical presentations and hands-on experiences honoring the nation's founding and Connecticut's role in American history all month long.

Throughout July, patrons can explore colonial traditions, meet historical figures, discover local Revolutionary War history and participate in activities for all ages at the main library and the South Norwalk Library, according to the release.

Highlights include colonial candle making, an America 250 birthday tea party and a special appearance by Benjamin Franklin interpreter Jack Sherry, who brings one of America's founding fathers to life through stories, wit and historical insight.

Additionally, Matthew Warshauer, an author and history professor at Central Connecticut State University, will share Connecticut's role as the "Provision State" during the Revolutionary War, according to the release.

The following series of events commemorating America 250 was provided by the library:

Featured Events

Electrifying the Scientific World: Benjamin Franklin | Burndy Library Display

• June – July 2026

• Main Library Front Entrance

America 250 Scavenger Hunt

• July 1 – 31 | Aug 1 – 30, 2026

• Children's Department, Main Library

Families are invited to celebrate America's 250th birthday by searching for clues, reading about notable Americans throughout history, and learning about individuals whose contributions helped shape the nation.

Colonial Candle Making for Adults

• Saturday, July 11, 2026

• 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• Main Library

Create your own hand-rolled beeswax candle inspired by early American craftsmanship.

How Connecticut Became the “Provision State”—It Was All About Sugar and Rum!

• Wednesday, July 15, 2026

• 6:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.

• Main Library

Professor of History and Author, Matthew Warshauer, explores how Connecticut’s trade economy supplied General George Washington’s army during the Revolutionary War and examines the colony’s pivotal role in the nation’s fight for independence.

America's 250th Birthday Tea Party

• Saturday, July 18, 2026

• 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• South Norwalk Library

Celebrate America's milestone birthday dressed in red, white, and blue with an afternoon tea.

Meet Benjamin Franklin: Wit, Wisdom, and Revolution

• Saturday, July 25, 2026

• 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

• Main Library

Step back in time as historical interpreter Jack Sherry portrays Benjamin Franklin, covering topics such as: Franklin's diplomatic endeavors in France, his famous kite experiments, and the process of drafting the Declaration of Independence.

More information is available at norwalkpl.org.