FRENCH LICK — Orange County is gearing up for a historic multi-week summer celebration in honor of the United States’ Semiquincentennial. Local organizers have released a comprehensive lineup of historical rededications, live concerts, and massive fireworks displays.
According to the officials, the ongoing festivities span several communities, including French Lick, West Baden Springs, Orleans, and Paoli.
Residents and visitors looking to plan their holiday weeks can look forward to the following upcoming events:
Late June Highlights
- Ongoing through June 28 (West Baden Visitors Center): The traveling Smithsonian Institution exhibit, “Voices & Votes,” remains open to the public. Hours are Monday–Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- June 26–27 (French Lick Town Green): The two-day Summer Fest: America 250 Celebration kicks off at 9:00 a.m., featuring community vendors, activities, and live entertainment.
Fourth of July Week Festivities
Friday, July 3
- Orleans: An old-fashioned Ice Cream Social & Entertainment gathering will take place on the town square.
- French Lick Springs Hotel: A live performance on First & Main Streets is scheduled from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- French Lick Casino: The night skies will light up with a massive high-tech Drone Show starting at 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 4 (Independence Day)
- Paoli Courthouse Ceremonies (10:00 a.m.): Civic ceremonies at the historic courthouse square will feature the opening of a 1976 time capsule, a Revolutionary War Memorial rededication, and a ceremonial Liberty Tree planting.
- French Lick Springs Hotel (8:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.): The Tom Petty tribute band Southern Accents will perform a free outdoor concert.
- Regional Fireworks Displays: Multiple synchronized shows will take place across the county:
- Patoka Lake: Thunder Over Patoka fireworks from 8:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- French Lick Casino: Fireworks show beginning at 10:00 p.m.
- Paoli: Community fireworks launching at dusk.
- Orleans Airport: Community fireworks launching at dusk.
Days of Reflection and Proclamation
Following the heavy holiday weekend, the county will transition to historical and reflective ceremonies. July 5 has been designated as America’s Day of Reflection across the region.
The summer event series will formally conclude on Tuesday, July 8, on the Paoli Courthouse steps, where local officials will host a public reading of the 250th Proclamation of the Declaration of Independence.
For more information regarding event logistics or local accommodations, residents can call 812-936-3418 or visit the official tourism hub at timelessfrenchlick.com.
