4th of July
CELEBRATING 250 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE - LA VERNE'S WAY
The La Verne Friends of the Fourth of July Committee is proud to announce the theme for the 2026 Fourth of July celebration: “Celebrating 250 Years of Independence – La Verne’s Way.” This historic milestone marks the 250th anniversary of the United States and offers a meaningful opportunity for the community to reflect on the nation’s founding and La Verne’s own proud traditions.
In recognition of this once-in-a-generation celebration, the Committee has selected a truly symbolic Grand Marshal: La Verne’s replica of the Liberty Bell, located in front of City Hall.
La Verne’s Liberty Bell is no ordinary replica. It was cast by the same foundry in London—Whitechapel Bell Foundry—that produced the original bell in 1752, now housed at Independence Hall. Created as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976, only 100 duplicate bells were made, with two allocated per state. In California, only La Verne and Bakersfield were selected to receive one.
La Verne’s bell is a full-scale, exact replica of the original—without the famous crack—and stands today as a powerful symbol of freedom and independence. Its presence in the community is the result of a remarkable grassroots effort led by the La Verne Bicentennial Committee, whose members and residents came together through fundraising, events, and donations to bring the bell to the city.
Since its arrival, the bell has served as a lasting reminder of the ideals upon which the nation was founded and the community spirit that defines La Verne. It remains prominently displayed at City Hall, where it continues to connect past generations with future ones. In honor of the 250th anniversary, plans are underway to ceremonially ring the bell once again.
The 2026 Fourth of July celebration promises to be a memorable tribute—bringing the community together to celebrate freedom, history, and hometown pride, La Verne’s way.
For more information about the event, please contact the La Verne Friends of the Fourth of July Committee at lvfriendsofthe4th@gmail.com