The Martinsville Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to join in a hometown celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Linn Park and surrounding locations in Martinsville.
The evening will feature live music, community activities, historical attractions, family-friendly events, food, and opportunities for residents and local organizations to participate in the celebration.
Activities and attractions include:
Porch & Yard Pride Contest
Residents and businesses within the Martinsville School District are invited to decorate their porches, yards, homes, or businesses in patriotic and Independence Day themes.
Participants may submit photos through the online entry form. Entries must be submitted by Friday, June 26, 2026.
The first-place entry will receive a commemorative American flag, and all participants will receive a commemorative challenge coin.
Winners will be announced during the July 2 celebration.
Historic Military Vehicle Display
The Chamber is seeking owners and collectors of historic military vehicles to participate in a special vehicle display near Linn Park and the Martinsville Public Library during the celebration.
No registration is required. Collectors, enthusiasts, and historical organizations interested in participating are encouraged to watch for additional details.
Self-Guided Cemetery Walks
Beginning at 5 p.m., visitors are invited to take part in self-guided cemetery walks featuring historic gravesites at Martinsville City Cemetery and Ridgelawn Cemetery.
Cake Walk
A Cake Walk sponsored by Changing Hands Resale Shoppe will begin at 5 p.m.
Linn Park Activities
Visitors are encouraged to stop by Linn Park throughout the evening for birthday cake and community activities celebrating the historic anniversary.
Live Music
Live music performances at Linn Park will begin at 7 p.m. featuring:
- Less is More
- Trouble & Company
- Community Performance Showcase*
*During the evening’s entertainment, the public will be invited to share their talents. Community members, musicians, singers, and performers will have opportunities throughout the evening to share patriotic music, performances, and talents as part of the celebration.
Food & Concessions
Concessions will be available throughout the evening, including tenderloin sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, soda, iced tea, and water.
Clark County Historical Society Quilt Raffle
Tickets will be available during the event for the Clark County Historical Society Quilt Raffle. The raffle drawing will be held in October.
Additional activities, participant information, and event updates will be announced as planning continues.
Community members are encouraged to follow the Martinsville Chamber of Commerce, and City of Martinsville for future updates and announcements related to the celebration.
