Fourth of July celebrations bring history to life at President Arthur Homestead
Tuesday 7 July 2026
The President Arthur Homestead in Cullybackey was the setting of the Mid and East Antrim Fourth of July celebrations, marking America’s Independence Day during the USA250 commemorative year.
Visitors from across Northern Ireland, alongside international visitors, gathered at this ancestral cottage to celebrate the Fourth of July while discovering the fascinating story of Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States.
The family-friendly event combined the spirit of America’s Independence Day with the opportunity to explore the unique historic links between a rural County Antrim family and the American Presidency.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, welcoming the initiative said: "We were delighted to work in partnership with the Cullybackey Community Partnership to celebrate this important date in the calendar. The event was a wonderful opportunity for people to learn more about one of our most famous sons, explore the traditional homestead, and discover the remarkable journey from a whitewashed cottage in a rural village in County Antrim to the White House.
“President Arthur Homestead continues to be a popular visitor attraction, and events such as this help bring our unique heritage to life for residents and visitors alike. We look forward to welcoming more to this important cottage, which forms part of the Ancestral Cottage Trail NI."
Throughout the day, families enjoyed a lively programme of entertainment and activities. Local musician Noel Maguire provided a festival atmosphere with a selection of traditional tunes, including several with American connections.
Visitors had the opportunity to immerse themselves in living history experiences, learn more about the Arthur family home and sample delicious homemade baking cooked fresh on the griddle, by staff in period costume.
Younger visitors enjoyed face painting, balloon modelling and sensory play activities, ensuring there was something for all ages to experience throughout the day.
President Arthur Homestead is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11am to 3pm. A one-year pilot scheme has been approved to allow free admission for visitors to explore this thatched cottage with an extraordinary story. Charges continue to apply to educational visits.
For more information about upcoming events and activities at President Arthur Homestead, visit: www.shapedbyseaandstone.com/whats-on