Valdese celebrates America's 250th year next weekend

Next Saturday, families can enjoy a patriotic celebration of America’s 250th year as a nation at the Old Rock School in Valdese with crafts, an American history meet and greet, an outdoors movie, and more.

Director of Community Affairs and Tourism Morrissa Angi said this event will be the first time a movie has been shown on Temple Field. The film is “Wild America.” There will also be popcorn, concessions, and cold drinks. If it rains, the movie will be shown inside.

The American history meet and greet will feature historical figures including Amelia Earhart, Betsy Ross, Benjamin Franklin, Paul Revere, and many more, Angi said.

Angi said various volunteers will play the roles.

“They will be all throughout the Old Rock School. At each ‘stop’ attendees will receive an item connected to the American figure,” Angi said. “For example, Paul Revere will hand out little battery-powered lanterns.”

It will be a scavenger hunt of characters, Angi said.

“Attendees who visit the American figures will receive numerous goodies. Check-in will be with Betsy Ross in the Waldensian Room. Visit her to get started with the make-and-take art,” Angi said. “She will give attendees a goodie bag to get started.”

The event will be on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 5-8 p.m. The Old Rock School is at 400 Main St. W in Valdese.

Angi said partners that pulled this event together include Valdese Community Affairs & Old Rock School, Waldensian Heritage Museum, Burke America250, Rock School Arts Foundation, Charters of Freedom/Foundation Forward, Old Colony Players, Piedmont & Western Railroad Museum, and Valdese American Legion.