News Release

Join the Grand Old Post for an Old-Fashioned Fourth

Ranger Joe about to fire the cannon during an old-fashioned "Old-Fashioned Fourth"

NPS Photo

News Release Date: June 27, 2022

Contact: Clayton Hanson, 307-837-2221 #3010

Contact: Mark Davison, 307-837-2221

FORT LARAMIE, WYO., June 27, 2022 – Fort Laramie National Historic Site will celebrate Independence Day with an “Old-Fashioned Fourth” on July 4, 2022. The fort will host a full day of special activities from the 9:30 am flag-raising through retreat of the national colors at 4:00 pm. Highlights include children’s activities, performances, and exhibits of artifacts from the park’s collections. 

“The Old-Fashioned Fourth at Fort Laramie is the high point of the summer in Goshen County and southeast Wyoming,” said Superintendent Mark Davison, “We’re pleased to welcome the local community and visitors from across the nation for Independence Day.”

Following the morning flag-raising, children will be able to enlist as junior soldiers. If they pass a physical by climbing a greased pole, learn and show off military marching, and successfully drill on a cannon, they can earn a special ribbon. 

At noon, the Grand Old Post will salute the Union with pomp, ceremony, and the cannon’s roar. The celebration will continue into the afternoon with demonstrations by the Cheyenne Trotters Equestrian Drill Team and the Pony Express Association. The Merchant Family will also perform emigrant and military music.

Throughout the day, visitors can also take part in a scavenger hunt, view an exhibit of artifacts from the museum collection, or meet with living historians across the grounds. 

Admission is free to the park and all events. The visitor center will be open 9 am to 7 pm. 

Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on and wear sun protection. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase from the Fort Laramie Historical Association at the enlisted men’s bar. 

For a full list of events and times, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/fola or call the park at 307-837-2221. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.