Bells are ringing – well, one bell in particular – on the Fourth of July. The annual ringing of the historic Putnam-Korbel bell takes place starting at 10:30 on the steps of the Petaluma Historical Museum and Library at Fourth and B streets.
Local historians Marshall West and Bill Hammerman will dress in their historic best – top hats and frock coats – to officiate. The ceremony includes President John Fitzgerald Kennedy’s 1963 bell-ringing proclamation, the story of the historic bell, a proclamation read by Mayor David Glass, the traditional Boy Scout flag ceremony and culminates at 11 a.m. as all who are interested are invited to ring the bell.
The event concludes with homemade cookies and lemonade in the garden court behind the museum.
In the evening, the action shifts to the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds, where PTown 4th starts at 5 p.m.
There will be music from southern rock band Paulies Garage, a fun zone for kids (and any interested adults), food and drink.
Attendees are welcome to bring picnics, blankets, lawn chairs and cameras. Alcohol, animals, fireworks, glass and barbecues are not permitted. Cost is $5 per person and includes the fun zone games.
Fireworks, choreographed to music, begin around 9:30 p.m. Visit ptown4th.com for details about the evening event.
