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10 THE BUZZ AROUND WAYNE COUNTY JULY 2026 Step Into 1776: Downtown Goldsboro to Come Alive with Revolutionary History This July 3rd By Jacqueline Kannan This Independence Day weekend, the past will come alive in downtown Goldsboro as the Wayne Community College Foundation invites the community to experience "Step Into 1776: A Revolutionary Journey Through America's Founding Era"—an immersive living history event celebrating America 250 and the spirit of the nation's founding. Taking place on Friday, July 3, this family-friendly event will transform downtown Goldsboro into an interactive colonial experience filled with reenactors, live demonstrations, music, and hands-on educational exhibits. Designed for all ages, Step Into 1776 offers a rare opportunity to experience daily life during the Revolutionary War era and gain a deeper appreciation for the people and sacrifices that shaped America's independence. Visitors can expect to encounter British and Patriot soldiers throughout downtown, interacting with the public and bringing history to life through authentic uniforms, gear, and storytelling. Reenactors from across North Carolina will be on-site portraying soldiers, civilians, craftspeople, and historical figures from the late 18th century. One of the day's most anticipated attractions will be the live weapons demonstrations at Freedom Field, scheduled for 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, and 5:00 p.m. Guests will witness demonstrations featuring muskets and a live cannon, offering a powerful glimpse into the realities of Revolutionary-era warfare. Beyond the battlefield, attendees will explore what everyday life looked like in 1776. At the Terrace Room, guests can enjoy demonstrations focused on colonial crafts, wom- en's fashion, and domestic life. At the CSS Building/ACME Theater, visitors can observe a fascinating—and sometimes startling—look at 18th-century battlefield medicine and surgery, highlighting how dramatically healthcare has evolved over the last 250 years. Local downtown merchants are also joining in the celebration by offering themed treats, patriotic specials, and Revolutionary-era memorabilia at their businesses, creating even more opportunities for visitors to engage with the event as they explore downtown Goldsboro. Guests can also stop by the Colonial Tavern, located at The Filling Station, to enjoy beverages and socialize in a colonial-inspired setting. Throughout the afternoon, the sounds of drum and fife music will echo through downtown streets, transporting visitors back to a time of revolution, resilience, and the birth of a nation. The evening will conclude at the Paramount Theatre with a special ticketed experience called "Taste the Revolution," where guests can enjoy Revolutionary-inspired food and refreshments before a screening of the classic musical film 1776. The food experienceoffers attendees a unique opportunity to literally taste flavors inspired by America's found- ing era before settling in for an entertaining and thought-provoking look at the signing of the Declaration of Independence. "This event is about more than just history—it's about connection," said Jacqueline Kannan, Executive Director of the Wayne Community College Foundation. "We want people to walk through downtown and truly feel immersed in the sights, sounds, and stories of 1776. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique family outing, there will be something memorable for everyone." The Wayne Community College Foundation created Step Into 1776 to celebrate America's 250th anniversary while bringing education, culture, and community together in a meaningful way. Admission to the living history portion of the event is open to the public. Community members are encouraged to wear patriotic colors, bring the family, and prepare to step back in time for an unforgettable Revolutionary journey.