This weekend, Kentucky State Parks has a lot of great opportunities for Fourth of July fun. While you're out and about enjoying the festivities, stop by and visit our historical markers, then post your pictures, coordinates and check-ins to Facebook! Don't know how to create a check-in? Read more about it on this History Burgoo post and stay tuned to learn more about the Kentucky Historical Society’s Explore KY History mobile app so you can take tours of historical markers no matter where you are or what adventure you're having online or on the road.
Below is just a sampling of some Independence Day history opportunities across the state! Don't see historical markers in your county? It doesn't mean they aren't there; we’ve just posted a few. Check out the full database of historical markers online and visit the Kentucky State Parks website for a complete listing of all their Fourth of July events!
Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Lucas
It’s a blast at Barren River Lake State Resort Park’s annual Fireworks Celebration on July 4, sponsored by The Friends of Barren River Lake and Park. The park will have plenty of patriotic fun crafts and games starting at 10 a.m., including the annual Float Your Boat contest at 7 p.m. The band Steel Country will perform at 5 p.m., followed by the fireworks display at dark. Call 1-800-325-0057.
Historical Markers in Barren County include:
- Bear Wallow, US 31-E at Hart Co. line, Bear Wallow
- Bell's Tavern, Public Park, KY 70, Cave City
- Cave City Raid, Public Park, KY 70, Cave City
- Diamond Caverns, 1900 Mammoth Cave Pkwy., Park City
- First Presbyterian Church, 200 E. Washington St., Glasgow
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn
The park will set up a tent and sell hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks and other items from 3-9:30 p.m. near the beach. Games will be available from 2-8:30 p.m. and musician Michael Dwayne will perform from 6-10 p.m. near the beach house. A spectacular show of fireworks will take place over the lake at dark. The park will also offer a special buffet July 4, from 5-9 p.m. (Adults $12.99 (plus beverage, tax and gratuity). Children 5 and under eat free.) Fireworks are sponsored by Hazard/Perry County Tourism and the city of Buckhorn. Call 1-800-325-0058.
Historical Markers in Perry County include:
- Founder of Hazard, Hazard, Courthouse lawn, KY 7, 15
- Mountain Missionary, N. Main St., Hazard, KY 7, 15
- Murdoch of Buckhorn, Buckhorn, KY 28
- Salt Works, 17 mi. S. of Hazard, KY 7
Fort Boonesborough State Resort Park, Richmond
Guests are invited to take part July 7 in a charitable event co-sponsored by the park and C.A.R.S. (Children Are Really Special). The Drive & Dive In Cruise will be 5-10 p.m. The park invites all classics – street rods, pro street, muscle cars, late model Camaros, Challengers, Corvettes, classic trucks, rat rods, modified and import vehicles! Bikes are also welcome! Enjoy the evening with live music, food, inflatable bounces for the kids, Levi Jackson pool will be open free to the C.A.R.S. spectators. Call 606-330-2130.
Historical Markers in Madison County include:
- Divine Elm, Ft. Boonesborough State Park near camping area, off KY 388
- Sycamore Hollow, Ft. Boonesborough State Park near picnic shelter, off KY 388
- Cassius Marcellus Clay, Entrance to Richmond Cemetery, US 25 & KY 52
- Civil War Field Hospital, Approx. 4 mi. S. of Richmond, US 421
- Daniel Boone's Trace, "Ft. Estill Hill" near 1526 Berea Rd., Richmond
Exploring Kentucky's history is a great way to celebrate the Fourth of July. Visit the Kentucky State Parks website to find festivities in your area, and search the Kentucky Historical Society's Historical Marker database to find history happening right where you live.
Have a happy and safe Independence Day!
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