NEVADA CITY, California – The 56th annual Constitution Weekend celebration will return to Nevada City on September 17and 18, 2022. Nevada City’s Constitution celebration has been a tradition since 1967 and is reported to be the oldest and largest Constitution observance in the western United States.
The weekend kicks off with Revolutionary War Reenactments at Pioneer Park on September 17 from 10am-5pm and again on Sunday, September 18 from 10am-12pm. The Delaware Regiment of the Brigade of the American Revolution will offer living history demonstrations of Revolutionary War soldiers drilling and firing, along with kids mock drilling activities, music by the California Consolidated Drum Band and colonial life living history.
On the afternoon of September 17, enjoy an open-air concert with the Nevada County Concert Band and the Watsonville Community Band from 4:30-6:30pm on North Pine Street. Bring a chair, sit back and enjoy lively music in the historic district.
The Constitution Day Parade will be held in the heart of historic Nevada City, winding its way down Broad Street on Sunday, September 18 at 2pm. It features dozens of entries including marching bands, floats, antique autos, politicians, and the perennial favorite–the Famous Marching Presidents of Nevada City, a humorous but reverent depiction of each U.S. president and first lady. The Famous Marching Presidents was founded by David Sparky Parker, a Nevada City artist, 35 years ago. “The Famous Marching Presidents may be the only group of its kind in America.” Explained Parker, “The Presidents have the best of fun celebrating the three C’s…Community…Country…Constitution! “
You can also catch the Ben Ali Shrine Club with various entries including their renowned go-cart unit, a favorite among kids and all ages alike. Prior to the parade at 1:30pm there will be a reenactment of the signing of the United States Constitution. “This fun family event is certainly one of the most unique events of the year, states Lynn Skrukrud, Constitution Day Committee Member and Event Manager for the Nevada City Chamber, “The reenactments and colorful groups help to bring history to life with an artful flare that Nevada City is known for. It’s sure to be entertaining for all ages.”
Avoid parking hassles with the free shuttle on Sunday, September 18 from 12pm-6pm from the Nevada County Rood Center located at 950 Maidu Avenue to downtown Nevada City. Make a day out of it, by having lunch, perusing Nevada City’s boutique shops, and stopping by the annual 49er Rotary Duck Race. We encourage the whole community to come out to join this wonderful celebration.
The details:
· Saturday, September 17th
o 10am-5pm– Revolutionary Way Living History at Pioneer Park
o 4:30-6:30pm – Open Air Concert with the Nevada County Concert Band & Watsonville Community Band on North Pine Street (bring a chair)
· Sunday, September 18th
o 10am-12pm – Revolutionary Way Living History at Pioneer Park
o 12:00pm-4:00pm – 49er Rotary Duck Race at 101 Boulder Street
o 1:30pm – Re-enactment of the signing of the U.S. Constitution at Broad & Pine St.
o 2:00pm – Constitution Day Parade on Broad Street