Celebrating Americana: A Diverse Lineup at the Overland Trail Museum's July 4 Heritage Festival

The Overland Trail Museum's July 4 Heritage Festival promises to be a captivating celebration of American culture, showcasing a diverse lineup of musical acts, poetic performances, and interactive experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. From country and rock music to the captivating recitations of a renowned cowboy poet, this year's festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms of Americana

Opening Ceremony: Honoring the Stars and Stripes

The festival will kick off with a stirring opening ceremony at 10 a.m. in Heidi Park, directly across from the museum. The Logan County Fair queen candidates will lead the procession, carrying the American flag on horseback to set the patriotic tone for the day. Following the flag presentation, the audience will be treated to a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, performed by the talented Jack Albrecht.

Musical Duo: "You Don't Know Jack"

The main musical act of the day will be the popular duo "You Don't Know Jack," featuring the dynamic duo of Dennis Fuller and Jack Albrecht. These local favorites are known for their versatility, seamlessly blending country, folk, and rock music to create a truly captivating performance. Audiences can expect a diverse repertoire and an open invitation to request their favorite tunes throughout the day.

Cowboy Poet: John Schaffner

During the musical breaks, visitors will have the opportunity to be enthralled by the captivating performances of Cowboy Poet John Schaffner. Schaffner has shared the stage with renowned artists like Michael Martin Murphy at Cheyenne Frontier Days, and his poetic recitations transport the audience to the rugged and romantic landscapes of the American West. When he's not enchanting the crowd with his poetry, Schaffner will be busy in his Chuckwagon, serving up samples of his famous Dutch oven cobbler.

Line Dancing Showcase: Boots In Motion

For those seeking a more interactive experience, the festival will feature a performance by the local line dancing group, Boots In Motion, at 11:30 a.m. in the High Plains Education Center. Visitors are encouraged to cool off and watch these energetic dancers in action, and those feeling adventurous can even join in the fun and learn some new moves.

Convenient Transportation: Shuttle Service

The Overland Trail Museum has partnered with Prairie Express to offer free shuttle rides throughout the day, making it easy for visitors to navigate the festival grounds. Shuttles will run continuously between the Justice Center parking lot, the West parking lot of the Overland Trail Recreation area, and the museum, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities without the hassle of finding parking.

Accessibility and Parking Considerations

The museum has made every effort to ensure that the festival is accessible to all. The parking lot at the museum is reserved for handicapped parking only, and visitors are encouraged to utilize the designated parking areas and shuttle service to avoid any inconvenience. The Eagle Truckstop has also offered their back parking lot for additional parking, but visitors are advised not to park on the street or in the Best Western Sundowner parking lot, as these areas are off-limits and any vehicles found in these areas will be towed at the owner's expense.

Sponsors and Community Support

The Overland Trail Museum would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the generous sponsors who have made this event possible: the City of Sterling, the Logan County Commissioners, First Farm Bank, ExploreSterling.com (Logan County Lodging Tax Board), the Logan County Historical Society, and the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority. Their support has allowed the museum to offer this wonderful celebration of Americana free of charge to all attendees.