Kick Off America 250 with June in Olde Williamsburg Festival

This Fourth of July is like no other. It marks the 250th year since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America. Williamsburg in Clermont County will celebrate America 250 with a variety of festivities taking place over the course of a few days known as June in Olde Williamsburg Festival.

Liz Betemps and Judi Adams of Williamsburg have set out to get a head start with plans for a community celebration of America 250.

"We've been working on this for over two years" said Adams. 

Adams is the president of the Bethel Historic Society and the co-chair of America 250. Betemps is with the Harmony Hill Museum and is co-chair for planning the America 250 celebration.

Adams and Betemps place great value in the rich history of Clermont County and have put this passion into planning America 250 for Clermont.

“We started out focused on plans for America 250 and how we might bring America 250 back to our own communities” states Betemps.

To Betemps and Adams, America 250 is an important occasion for the whole community of Williamsburg. This celebration is a great opportunity to celebrate Clermont County’s history while bringing the community together for celebrations.

“There’s all sorts of special things we’re doing and have done.” said Betemps. 

Thursday, June 18th marks the start of June in Old Williamsburg Festival and features a parade event starting at the Williamsburg High School. Many community groups will participate in the event such as the garden club and Boy Scouts. 

“Thats what's important, that community involvement, and Williamsburg does a good job with that,” said Betemps. 

On Friday and Saturday, Williamsburg will set up booths and games for children to have fun and there will be live bands. Sunday is the culmination of June in Old Williamsburg Festival with a free community picnic. 

“I’ve been reaching out to different organizations … we have one of the oldest businesses in Williamsburg providing all the hotdogs … the fire department, the mayor, all of the village trustees are grilling that day [and] churches are bringing side dishes for desserts,” said Betemps. “It’s all gonna be right there on the main street”.

June in Old Williamsburg Festival also features crafts, giveaways, and prizes such as recipes from the farmer’s market, America 250 tote bags, and a framed America 250 mural for the grand prize. 

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer to help with the festivities during June in Old Williamsburg Festival, contact Betemps at lizbetemps@gmail;com or at 513-305-0607.