Celebrate a 'Glorious Fourth' the 1890s way

Visitors can enjoy Independence Day the 1890s way at "Celebrating the Fourth" and "Evening in the Country: The Glorious Fourth" on Thursday, June 30, at Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago.

"These two events offer DuPage County residents a retreat to a bygone era and provide a unique and memorable way to celebrate our nation's birthday," said DuPage County Forest Preserve District Commissioner Al Murphy.

At "Celebrating the Fourth" from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., visitors can play hoops and graces and other 1890s outdoor games, tour the historic farmhouse, join a casual game of baseball, make a patriotic craft project, and watch a celebratory model hot-air balloon launch.

The festivities resume at "Evening in the Country: The Glorious Fourth" from 5 to 8 p.m., when visitors can churn fresh ice cream, make a patriotic craft and enjoy additional balloon launches. Horse-drawn wagon rides are available for $5 a person for ages 13 and older, $2 for those 5 to 12 and free for those younger than 5.

At 6 p.m., costumed interpreters will present a Fourth of July ceremony featuring patriotic songs and a reading of the Declaration of Independence followed by an ice cream social.

Both events are free and open to all ages, but adults should accompany all children. Registration is not required. For details, call Kline Creek Farm at (630) 876-5900.