SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Old Town will transport families to San Diego's early years during several free events this summer.
Locals can learn about San Diego's history through themed activities celebrating the region's heritage in July and August, starting on Independence Day.
"An 1800s Fourth of July" (11 a.m. - 4 p.m.) will celebrate America's Birthday with a parade around Old Town's historic plaza, invite guests to enjoy crafts and activities, and experience the Fourth as it would be celebrated in the 1800s.
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Free fun continues on July 13 with "San Diego Day" (11 a.m. - 4 p.m.) Visitors will celebrate 250 years of San Diego with education on the many cultures of our region, games, children's crafts, and other family activities in Old Town.
On July 27, Old Town celebrates "Women of the West" (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) through hands-on activities and demonstrations showing how women helped develop the west. Activities will have a special focus on skills and contributions by women including quilting, spinning, cooking, and basket making.
The trades that shaped San Diego will be on display during "Trades that Shaped the West" (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) on Aug. 3. Old Town will showcase 19th century's specialized trades and artisans that helped shape the San Diego community.
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Old Town will focus on San Diego's well-known military background during "Soldiers and Citizens" (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) on Aug. 10. Visitors can learn about San Diego's earliest military members and veterans thgouh historic uniforms, weapons, demonstrations, and listen to soldier stories.
Then on Aug. 18, "Twainfest" (10 a.m. - 5 p.m.) will take over Old Town with a festival celebrating the works of Mark Twain and other 19th century authors. Excerpts from some of Twain's famous works will be depicted by San Diego actors at various park venues.
Visitors can enjoy any of the free events at Old Town Park at San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street.More information about Old Town's free summer fun can be found online here.