The Fourth at the Ford

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Commemorate America's 250 birthday with "The Fourth at the Ford," a special Independence Day event offering free admission and family-friendly activities on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Everyone is invited to celebrate the nation's founding with a day of history, education, and patriotic fun.

Admission to the entire Museum, including the new "Waltzing with the Queen" exhibit, will be free for all visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..

Event Highlights:

Living History Reenactors: Visitors can engage with three pivotal figures in American history. John Adams will deliver a special presentation at 11 a.m., Benjamin Franklin will offer a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 1 p.m. and Frederick Douglass will present excerpts from his historic "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" speech at 2:30 p.m.

Patriotic Art in the Lobby: The Museum lobby will feature artwork by Michigan artists, including a stunning painting of an American bald eagle, E Pluribus Unum, by ArtPrize winner Anni Crouter. Alongside this piece, visitors can view the prize winning quilt, Our Family Honor, by quilter R. Roos-Sullivan, celebrating her family’s history of service in the U.S. military.

Family Craft Activities: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., children can participate in making patriotic bead bracelets.

Flag Giveaways: Attendees can receive a complimentary flag, while supplies last.

Food Truck Rally: A variety of local food trucks, including Patty Matters, Furniture City Creamery, and Two Bones Barbecue, will be on-site starting at 11 a.m.. Outdoor seating and tents will be available for visitors to enjoy their meals on the Museum grounds.