Ashleigh Sander is the assistant town manager of Millsboro.
On June 27, the town of Millsboro and the Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce will proudly join communities across the country in commemorating a historical milestone: the 250th anniversary of the United States of America!
For 250 years, our nation has endured, evolved and prospered through the dedication of citizens who have embraced the principles of freedom, opportunity, service and unity.
As we mark this extraordinary anniversary, we have an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past, while celebrating the communities that continue to shape its future.
The day will begin with opportunities to explore the rich history of our town. From 1-3:00 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to stop by Millsboro Town Hall at 322 Wilson Highway to visit the Town of Millsboro Museum.
Few things embody the American spirit more than neighbors coming together in celebration, and that is exactly what will take place in Millsboro on June 27.
The America250: Millsboro Celebrates festival will kick off on downtown’s Main Street at 2 p.m., with an exciting lineup of family-friendly activities and entertainment. (Main Street will close at noon for event setup.)
Attendees can enjoy live music by Southbound, browse a variety of vendors, sample food from local restaurants and explore a touch-a-truck experience. Balloon artists, face-painters and a caricature artist will provide fun for visitors of all ages. Families with young children are encouraged to visit the Millsboro Public Library, where Americana-themed children’s book readings will take place from 2-3:30 p.m., inspiring the next generation to appreciate the stories and values that have shaped our nation. Don’t forget to stop into the Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce for the silent auction and bake sale!
Be sure to stop into the former Ball Theatre at 214 Main St. between 2-4 p.m. Step inside this nostalgic venue and take a trip back in time, while exploring the theater’s rich history and charm.
Outside the theater, join a local mural artist to create a community mural painting! Residents and visitors of all ages are invited to leave their marks on this collaborative art project celebrating our community and America’s 250th anniversary.
At 4 p.m., Main Street will come alive with a patriotic parade celebrating America, community pride and the people who make Millsboro such a special place to call home. The parade is sure to be one of the highlights of the day, as residents, organizations, businesses and community groups come together in a colorful display of patriotism.
But the celebration doesn’t end there!
Following the parade, the festivities will continue at the W.B. Atkins Memorial Park at the Millsboro Little League complex, where families can enjoy a vibrant Kids Zone featuring inflatables, face-painters and other activities. Mobile food vendors and other vendors will be on-site, while a DJ keeps the energy going throughout the evening. Visitors will also have the unique opportunity to experience living history through Caesar Rodney reenactments and other special attractions.
At 5 p.m., on the way to the ball field from Main Street, guests can also venture in to the historical John and Elsie Williams House Museum and Conference Center at 105 W. State St. to learn more about the people, places and stories that shaped Millsboro into the thriving community it is today.
As dusk approaches, the community will gather for a spectacular fireworks display, providing a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
Compliments of Dutton Bus Service, free shuttles will be available from 1 p.m. until the conclusion of the fireworks display.
Shuttles will operate on a continuous loop between:
The buses will drop off and pick up at the Millsboro Police Department.
An accessible bus will be included on the route to accommodate guests with mobility needs.
Guests are encouraged to go to any of the designated locations and take advantage of this complimentary service throughout the day and evening.
Events like these remind us that the American story is not just found in history books. It is found in communities like Millsboro, where neighbors support one another, where families gather to create lasting memories and where traditions are passed from one generation to the next.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, let us honor those who came before us, appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today and look forward with optimism to the future of our nation and our community.
We invite everyone to join us June 27 for a day of patriotism, family fun, community spirit and celebration. Together, let’s make Millsboro’s America250 celebration a memorable chapter in our town’s history.
Happy America250, Millsboro!
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