This event has become a fun tradition for north jersey families! Come spend the day at Ringwood Manor for the annual Declaration of Independence celebration! The event features a dramatic delivery and reading of the Declaration of Independence on the steps of the Manor’s porch along with colonial activities and demonstrations. Revolutionary War reenactors help celebrate the 243rd anniversary of American independence and bring the experience to life. The festivities will begin with Ringwood Manor open to the public as an "open house" from 10am to 1:30pm. Come wander through 30 rooms and take in the history of the site! At 1:00 p.m., the fun starts to pick up steam as colonial era toys and games will be available for children to play with. Young and old can sign their “John Hancock” on a copy of the Declaration using a traditional quill pen and ink. Colonial crafters, demonstrations, and displays will help to create an atmosphere of a town square in front of Ringwood Manor. The reenactment will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a short introduction about the history of the area and the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration will be delivered to the front steps of Ringwood Manor. The document will then be read to the crowd at 2:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to listen closely and cheer and jeer during the reading. Following the reading there will be a traditional flag raising with the “Hopkinson” flag. After the flag is raised, the militia will fire a ceremonial musket volley and the bell at Ringwood Manor will be rung thirteen times to conclude the ceremony. But the fun isn't over yet! The public is encouraged to stay after the ceremony as the celebration continues. Children are encouraged to join the Continental Army and learn military drills. The North River Historical Dancers will perform 18th century dances in the back gardens with members of the public who wish to join in. All are welcome to join the fun! Rich Wagoner will be back again this year demonstrating colonial beer brewing. New to the event for 2019 are Humor Me Farm, with a display of weaving and spinning, and Metropolitan Chapter of the International Organization of Lace along with the Lost Art Lacers, performing bobbin lace making. There is no charge for the Independence Day celebration. There is, however, a parking fee to enter Ringwood State Park of $5 for in-state residents, and $7 for out-of-state residents. Ringwood Manor will be open to the public between 10am and 1:30pm only to allow for the event to proceed as scheduled. The entrance fee for Ringwood Manor is $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12, and children 5 and under are free. The event will take place rain or shine. Independence Day at Ringwood Manor is sponsored by the North Jersey Highlands Historical Society and the Ringwood State Park staff. ​