Residents and visitors alike are invited to celebrate Door County History Days and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a week of special programs at Heritage Village, June 15–21, 2026.
History Days 2026 is a countywide initiative coordinated by the Heritage Alliance of Door County. Heritage Village will host exhibits, discussions, guided tours, and hands-on programs exploring how the Declaration of Independence shaped our nation, our state, and our community. The week’s activities encourage participants to reflect on the enduring significance of America’s founding ideals while discovering the unique history of Door County.
History Days Kick-Off Event
Monday, June 15 | 10:00 a.m.
Heritage Village will serve as the host site for the Kick-Off Event for History Days 2026. Following a presentation in the Collins Learning Center, guests are invited to explore Heritage Village and visit informational displays staffed by representatives from Door County’s historical organizations.
Visitors can also stop by the Vignes School to view a special exhibit commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The display explores the document’s impact on American life and invites guests to leave a note sharing what the Declaration means to them today.
America@250 Community Conversations
Tuesday, June 16 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, June 18 | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
As part of the national America 250 commemoration, the Door County Historical Society will host two different America@250 Community Conversations in the Collins Learning Center.
Using thematic clips from The American Revolution, the new documentary series directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, participants will engage in guided small-group discussions about the American experience—past and present. The conversations are designed to help community members connect with one another, consider different perspectives, and reflect on the values and ideals that continue to shape our democracy.
Discussion topics will include citizenship, volunteerism, military service, civic participation, public leadership, and what it means to be American. All viewpoints are welcome in a respectful, facilitated environment.
Hands-on History Walk
Thursday, June 18 | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Take a guided stroll through Heritage Village and discover the stories behind its historic buildings during this engaging Hands-on History Walk. Visit the special Declaration of Independence exhibit, sample honey from Sweet Mountain Farm, and explore historic tools and trades at the Madden Tool Museum.
Patriotic Pies
Saturday, June 20 | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Why is apple pie America’s pie? What makes a Belgium pie Belgian? Take your taste buds on a journey through history during this delicious program exploring the stories behind some of our favorite pies. Participants will enjoy samples of locally made pies, a beverage, and lively conversation about family food traditions. Guests are encouraged to bring copies of their favorite family pie recipes to share. Registration is required.
Program Fee: $15 for Door County Historical Society members, $20 for non-members
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