On July 4, 1776, the original 13colonies of the United States officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming their freedom from Great Britain. Of the 56 signers of the Declaration, 4 hailed from Maryland – Charles Carroll of Carrollton, Samuel Chase, William Paca, and Thomas Stone.

Nearly 40 years later, with its cornerstone laid on July 4, 1815, Baltimore's Washington Monument became the first public monument to honor George Washington and the ideals of American Democracy he represented.

This Saturday brings together both historical events with A Monumental Bicentennial, the reopening of Baltimore's restored monument and the 200th anniversary of its construction in Mount Vernon. The July 4th celebration begins at 8:30am with a naturalization ceremony, where 40 people will become U.S. citizens, followed by a ribbon cutting, live musical performances, and an old-fashioned country fair for the remainder of the day.

"BOPA is pleased to produce the Monumental Bicentennial on behalf of the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy. This festival not only celebrates America's independence, but honors the nation's first monument dedicated to George Washington, and it's right here in Baltimore City," said Kathy Hornig, Festivals Director for the Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts.

"The re-dedication of the Washington Monument is a celebration of Maryland's continued central place in the story of our nation, evidenced by the naturalization of 40 new citizens, and a perfect opportunity to enjoy locally sourced food and drink," said Bill Pencek, Acting Assistant Secretary for DBED's Office of Tourism, Film and the Arts.

The Washington Monument closed to the public in 2010 to undergo renovations. The festival is free to attend and is expected to gather thousands of visitors to the Baltimore area.

Learn more about Baltimore's Washington Monument and find additional Fourth of July celebrations on VisitMaryland.org.