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The 250th-anniversary celebrations at the Betsy Ross House are here and the house of America’s most famous flag maker celebrates with a full year of special events.
A gem in Philadelphia’s Historic District, the Betsy Ross House tells the stories of 18th-century women and is home to the only (fully functional) 18th-century upholstery shop in America. The 250th-anniversary events commemorate both Betsy and John Ross’s elopement, as well as the opening (and impact) of their historic shop.
Special events include National Flag Week celebrations, outdoor film screenings, professional storytellers, historical interpreters, crafting demos (featuring authentic 18th-century craftsmanship), tours, socials and much more.
The year-long commemoration kicks off this fall and continues through Summer 2024. Read on for a list of events marking the semiquincentennial celebration at the Betsy Ross House.
October 19 & November 9, 2023 and March 14, April 11 & May 9, 2024
Have a drink, socialize and get crafty with other local needleworkers on select evenings throughout the year. These BYOB gatherings feature guest speakers, new sewing techniques and beginner-friendly projects (and, of course, Betsy Ross cameos). Admission to the event is free and advanced registration is required.
— Photo courtesy S. Moore for the Betsy Ross House
November 3, 2023 and February 9, 2024
What would you do for love? Enjoy a complimentary “love potion” cocktail as a young Betsy Ross tells a story of true love — and how her illicit marriage upended her Quaker community. Tickets are $25 and include a tour of the house (advanced purchase required).
Sunday, December 31, 2023 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
It’s Betsy’s birthday party — and you’re invited! The Betsy Ross House celebrates the 271st anniversary of Betsy herself with a day of stories, crafts and lots of cake. The party is free to attend and you can keep an eye on the official website for more details.
February 2024 (Saturdays & Sundays only)
Meet historic figures from Colonial Philadelphia’s Black community and learn about the 18th-century Black experience during this storytelling series. Black History Month programming at the Betsy Ross House is free to attend.
March 2024 (Saturdays & Sundays only)
As part of Women’s History Month, the Betsy Ross House spotlights the lives, families and careers of women throughout the 1700s. The figures represent a range of racial, religious, social and political perspectives, and guests can look forward to free, hands-on workshops throughout.
— Photo courtesy Betsy Ross House
May 25 – September 2, 2024
This free, all-ages series features professional storytellers sharing fun and interactive tales about Betsy — among other prominent 18th-century women. Keep an eye out for the full schedule in early 2024.
June 7 & July 5, 2024
Bring your friends and enjoy a campy film under the stars at the Betsy Ross House courtyard. Tickets are $8, the event is BYOB and BYO-snacks, and special after-hours tours are included.
June 11-17, 2024
An annual tradition, Flag Festival 2024 celebrates National Flag Week with a week full of free family programming. Special events include an interactive flag history presentation by Betsy Ross, a chance to learn about the lives of other 18th-century women and Flag Day, a June 14 celebration that features a naturalization ceremony, presentations by modern-day flagmakers and more.
Saturday, June 17, 2024 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
This family-friendly celebration — hosted outdoors in Betsy’s courtyard — caps off Flag Fest with a full day of free entertainment. The day includes magic, puppet shows, circus acts, old-timey carnival games and more. Full details will be announced in Spring 2024.
Thursday, July 4, 2024 | 11 a.m.
Dress your pets in their most patriotic attire to compete for awards and special prizes. All species of pets are invited to this free parade and the judging panel consists of local celebrities (including Betsy Ross, obviously). Registration details are available Spring 2024.
Spooky Twilight Tours — Photo courtesy Betsy Ross House
Ongoing
The 250th celebration isn’t your only chance to see Betsy at work. The Betsy Ross House is open all year and offers tours daily, March through November, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Tuesdays from December through February). Tour options include:
To purchase tickets and to learn more about the Betsy Ross House 250th anniversary celebration, visit the official website below.
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Meet the historic seamstress and learn about her role in creating the American flag...