SPRINGFIELD – Illinois state historic sites in downtown Springfield will celebrate Independence Day on Friday, July 4, 2026 with free activities, including art, history programs, hands-on crafts and special tours.
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Visitors can explore the Noir 6 art exhibition at the Old State Capitol State Historic Site. The free exhibit features artwork by 26 Black artists exploring the Black experience of the past and hopes for the future.
Children ages 5-15 can create tie-dye T-shirts on the north lawn of the Old State Capitol at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required on Eventbrite. Children can also make crafts and participate in other hand-on activities while supplies last.
The Illinois State Museum will present “The History Behind the Donner-Reed Party” at the Old State Capitol at noon and 3 p.m. The program explores why the group left Springfield and their dreams for a future in California. Reservations are recommended on the Old State Capitol’s Eventbrite website.
The Dana-Thomas House State Historic Site will offer special tours at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. highlighting the home's architectural features and providing visitors with a deeper look beyond the site's standard tour.
To learn more or register for these programs, visit the Springfield state historic sites website or email dnr.historicspringfield@illinois.gov.
About IDNR
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources was established in 1925 as the Illinois Department of Conservation, bringing under one umbrella oversight of fish and game, forestry, public works, and lakes. Today, IDNR’s work encompasses management of about 400 sites across Illinois, including state parks and historic sites; wildlife, fisheries, forestry, and natural heritage; Lake Michigan water allocation and coastal management; conservation police; mines and minerals; oil and gas; issuance of licenses, permits, and numerous grants; the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta; and the Illinois State Museum. Visit https://dnr.illinois.gov and follow us on Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.
