FORT LARNED — During the weekend of July 2 through 4, the Fort Larned National Historic Site will come to life with living history activities for a celebration of our Independence Day. 
Throughout the weekend, there will be daily historic weapons demonstrations of the rifles used by soldiers at Fort Larned and the fort’s cannon, the 1841 Mountain Howitzer.  The fort will feature living history personnel staffing the historic buildings. 
Chief Ranger George Elmore said Fort Larned National Historic Site features an Independence Day event that will entertain or instruct every age group. Elmore said Fort Larned volunteers enjoy celebrating the anniversary of our great nation’s birth.    
“Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the 1860s as the Fort comes alive bustling with volunteers through the weekend,” Elmore said. 
Fort Larned National Historic Site is located six miles west of Larned on K-156.  Open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., admission is free, as is the historic experience that awaits visitors to Fort Larned and the surrounding area.  Information on visiting Fort Larned can be found on the internet at www.nps.gov/fols, or by calling 620-285-6911. 
Also, e-mail to fols_superintendent@nps.gov.  For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining and community services, go to www.larnedks.org or call (620) 285-6916.  
While activities will be ongoing all three days, the following will be taking place only on Independence Day.
Fort Larned July 4 Schedule
8:30 a.m. —  Fort Larned Open
9 a.m.— Special weapons in Commanding Officers Quarters on display until 4 p.m.; living history interpreters in the various buildings throughout the day; anvil and forge manned by the blacksmith at Fort Larned Shops Building
10 a.m. — Life in the Barracks — A look at life of the common soldier
11 a.m. — Artillery and small arms program
1 p.m. — Life on Officer’s Row and Officer’s Garden
2:30 p.m. — Period Games — 1860s games; young and old can participate
3:30 p.m. — Army Weapons — Firing of the artillery and small arms  used at Fort Larned
4:30 p.m. — Retreat Ceremony — Lowering the garrison flag on the Parade Ground