Springtime is here, the temperatures are finally starting to warm up, and more and more people are heading out to explore. And with the arrival of spring comes the excitement of outdoor festivals and events. If you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational experience, mark your calendars for the Whiskey Rebellion Festival in Washington, PA. This unique festival, brought to you by the Bradford House Historical Association, honors America’s early days. And it offers a weekend of entertainment, learning, and community celebration.

The Whiskey Rebellion Festival

The festival takes place July 7-8th along Main Street, between Wheeling and Maiden Streets. It’s a free event that brings together history and heritage displays, street theater performances, a children’s area, music, food, and libations. The festival shines a national spotlight on Washington, PA, and the surrounding region, showcasing its rich history and whiskey culture.

One of the significant highlights of the festival is the opportunity to learn about the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, a significant event in American history that took place in the late 18th century. Historic reenactments and exhibits provide insight into the reasons behind the rebellion and the impact it had on the nation’s history. Additionally, visitors can also tour the Bradford House and the Whiskey Rebellion Education and Visitor Center, which are open for tours during the festival.

In addition to the educational aspects, the Whiskey Rebellion Festival offers plenty of entertainment and fun for all ages. Live music performances, delicious food and libations, and a children’s area with activities and games make it a family-friendly event. The festival also features a community parade organized by the Washington Business District Authority, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The Whiskey Rebellion Festival is a great opportunity to support the Bradford House Historical Association and their mission to preserve and promote local history. The festival is co-sponsored by Washington Financial and Washington County Community Foundation. Both are history groups sponsored by Range Resources. There are also opportunities to volunteer or become a sponsor to support the festival and its activities.

From young children to older adults, there is something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate at this unique festival. So, start exploring just a few of the many things to do. 

Whiskey & Spirits Walk

One of the other many highlights of the festival is the Whiskey & Spirits Walk, sponsored by Baird, which takes place on Friday, July 7 from 6 to 9 p.m. Participants can register at the Main Street Pavilion starting at 5:30 p.m. and receive a wristband, a walking map, and a sampling glass. Throughout the downtown area, participating businesses will host vendors from featured distilleries, offering samples of different libations. Participants can purchase bottles of their favorite spirits, and at the end of the walk, collect their bottles at the registration point. Must be 21 or over to participate.

Food and Drink

The food trucks at the Whiskey Rebellion Festival on Friday, July 7 will be open from 5:30 to 9 p.m., and on Saturday, July 8 from 11:15 a.m. to 10 p.m. The participating food trucks include:

• Le’s Oriental
• Gil’s Pit Beef
• Maw’s Country Fixins
• The Smoke Wagon
• Pgh Halal
• Cool Treats
• Wu’s Shaved Ice
• Frost Fairy
• Casita Bonita
• Old Ben’s

For drinks, the Blue Eagle Tavern will be serving whiskey and beer during the festival hours on Friday, July 7 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., and on Saturday, July 8 from 11:15 a.m. to 10 p.m. The tavern proudly advertises that you won’t have to pay Alexander Hamilton one cent in tax. In addition, there will be Miller Lite and Craft Beer available from vendors such as Red Pump Spirits and Still Mill Distillery, with more vendors to be announced.

Parade

On Saturday, July 8, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the Whiskey Rebellion Parade is hosted by the Washington Business District Authority. The festive parade takes place along Main Street in downtown Washington, PA and lasts approximately one hour. The parade route starts at the intersection of Main Street and Chestnut Street and ends at the intersection of Main Street and Maiden Street. Spectators can expect to see local history groups, high school performers, dance school performers, community heroes, and more. This parade culminates with an amazing street performance by local actors. Additionally, parade-goers are encouraged to bring their own chairs to enjoy the festivities.

For the kids

Children at the frontier classroom experience include writing with a quill pen, reading from McGuffey Readers, and practicing lessons on slates. Additionally, they have the opportunity to try their hand at 18th-century games. These include rolling hoops, cup and ball, hopscotch, stilts, and quoits. In addition, they learn about the responsibilities of youngsters on the frontier by trying out domestic chores like gathering eggs, fetching water, and washing clothes in a tub with a washboard. It’s a fun and educational experience that challenges the notion that learning can’t be fun. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Whiskey Rebellion Festival held in Washington, PA?

The Whiskey Rebellion Festival is held on Friday July 7, and Saturday, July 8.

What can I expect at the Whiskey Rebellion Festival?

The festival features tours, reenactments, historic groups, demonstrations, and more. It’s a fun way to learn about history. There are also whiskey and spirits walks, music and theater performances, food and drink options, shopping, and activities for kids.

How can I participate in the Whiskey Rebellion Festival?

You can participate in the Whiskey Rebellion Festival by attending the various events and activities offered during the festival. These include tours, demonstrations, and performances. You can also support the festival by visiting the sponsor booths, making donations, and spreading the word about the festival on social media.

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate America’s early days and learn about the Whiskey Rebellion at the Whiskey Rebellion Festival in Washington, PA. Mark your calendars for and join in the festivities of history, culture, and community. Follow the festival on Instagram and Facebook for updates and stay up to date with the latest news and events. See you at the festival! Cheers to a memorable springtime visit to Washington, PA.

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