Visitors to New Ross town might have been surprised to see a “Town Crier” dressed as he would have in 1776 as he took to the Quayside to practice reading the “Declaration of Independence” ahead of this week’s July 4 Irish American Day celebrations.

An action packed programme of events for all the family was announced in New Ross for Ireland’s official July 4 celebrations, Irish America Day on Thursday. This is the second year the town has celebrated the U.S. holiday in style.

Events get off to a start at noon with a reading of the 'Declaration of Independence' at The Tholsel similarly at noon each July 4 in the U.S. The Declaration is also read from the 'Old State House' Boston. The reading will be followed by a Civil Ceremony Raising of the Flag at the newly unveiled Emigrant Flame at 12.30. For music lovers Jazz and Blues will be on offer at St. Michael’s Theatre in the heart of the town.

Joining in the festivities will be Hook Lighthouse who will host the Waterford Wolves American Football Club, as well as all day barbeques, family fun and events. Loftus Hall will be catering for the more active with All American style Military Boot Camp, and free tours for all American Passport Holders on the day. Participating shops in New Ross will also give a 10% discount to American Passport holders on the day.

At 3pm in New Ross town the river cruising restaurant ‘The Galley’ will host Mississippi Afternoon Tea (booking essential to avoid disappointment) and a Boston Tea Party re-enactment will take place aboard the Dunbrody Famine Ship. The afternoon will also see members of the Wexford Food Family food producers create a market on the Quayside and a number of local establishments host BBQ’s and U.S. themed parties.

Celebrations will carry right through to a series of live music bands and entertainment on the Quayside followed by a giant fireworks display over the river Barrow.

Commenting on the events one of the organiser’s Bettie-Marie Burger-Smit said, ”We are delighted to be hosting our second annual Fourth of July, Irish America Day Celebrations, last year we had flocks of U.S. visitors make their way to New Ross to celebrate their national holiday with us and we are looking forward to seeing everyone again this year. It’s going to be a great day of celebrating our unique Irish American links.”

For further details on the Fourth of July, Irish America Day see www.irishamericaday.com.