Nevada City’s 57th Annual Constitution Weekend is a one-of-a kind event. This colorful celebration is the oldest and largest Constitution Day observance in the Western United States. Nevada City dedicates an entire weekend of festivities to the observance of the nearly 250-year-old document, which outlines our governmental structure.
The weekend kicks off with two-days of Revolutionary War living history demonstrations at Pioneer Park on September 14 and 15. There attendees can experience aspects of civilian and military life including camp set-ups, cooking, and period music. Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to learn stories and myths of the era. It’s an especially fun way to bring history to life for youth who can participate in interactive demonstrations and speak with the reenactors about what life was like in the eighteenth century.
On the afternoon of Saturday, September 14, there will be an open-air concert with the Nevada County Concert Band on North Pine Street in downtown Nevada City. This special performance brings back to life an era in American history when the local weekend band concert was a grand social occasion. The musicians will entertain attendees with a fine selection of family-friendly music.
On Sunday, September 15, the Constitution Day Parade takes place on Broad Street in Nevada City. The parade starts off with a reenactment of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. This year’s parade theme is “Heartbeat of America,” and will feature numerous marching bands along with floats, military groups, fire trucks, youth groups, and the perennial favorite–the Famous Marching Presidents of Nevada City, a humorous but reverent depiction of each U.S. president and first lady. Believed to be the only group of its kind in the United States.
Arrive early and come hungry! There will be a small street fair on Sunday, September 15 from 12-4pm on North Pine Street. Grab a spot to watch the parade, then peruse the vendors. Make a day out of it, by checking out Nevada City’s boutique shops and restaurants, and stopping by the annual 49er Rotary Dry Duck Race immediately after the parade.
The events are perfect for history buffs, everyone is sure to find something to enjoy. We hope you’ll join us for this longstanding tradition commemorating the history of our country and community. All activities are free to attend and open to all ages. Avoid parking hassles with the free shuttle on Sunday, September 15 from 12pm-5pm from the Nevada County Rood Center, located at 950 Maidu Avenue, to downtown Nevada City.
KNOW & GO:
· Saturday, September 14th
o 10am-5pm– Revolutionary War Living History at Pioneer Park
o 4:30-6:30pm – Open Air Concert with the Nevada County Concert Band on North Pine Street (bring a chair)
· Sunday, September 15th
o 10:00am-12:00pm – Revolutionary War Living History at Pioneer Park
o 12:00pm-4pm – Constitution Day Parade Street
o 1:30pm – Reenactment of the signing of the U.S. Constitution at Broad & Pine St.
o 2:00pm – Constitution Day Parade on Broad Street Fair
o 3:00pm – 49er Rotary “Dry” Duck Race at Robinson Plaza *NEW Location
More information can be found by visiting: nevadacitychamber.com