Churches across the Beaches will ring their bells in unison at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, as part of a free Constitution Day celebration at SeaWalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach.

The event, organized by the Daughters of the American Revolution's (DAR) Jean Ribault and Ponte Vedra chapters, runs from 3 to 4:15 p.m. and is open to the public. It is part of the nationwide America250 recognition of the nation's founding, the Beach Gazette reported.

Sept. 17 marks the anniversary of the Constitution's signing in Philadelphia in 1787. DAR chapters across the country traditionally hold small bell-ringing ceremonies on that date, recalling the peal of Philadelphia's church bells when the document was signed. DAR chapters in other states, including Nebraska, are holding their own ceremonies the same day as part of the America250 initiative.

This year is different for the Beaches. The two local chapters decided to open the tradition to the whole community for the first time, turning a private ceremony into a public celebration.

"We're engaging the entire community in the celebration," Sheila Young, editor of the Jean Ribault Chapter, DAR, told the Beach Gazette.

National DAR Historian General Cindy Addison, a Florida resident, will serve as guest speaker. Florida State Society DAR Regent Kim Zeman is also expected to attend.

The Fletcher High School band and Paxon High School singers will perform patriotic music. The Sons of the American Revolution will present a Colonial-era color guard. Local scouts will hand out American flags, pocket copies of the Constitution and bells for attendees to ring during the 4 p.m. ceremony.

Elected officials have been invited and most are expected to attend, Young said. None will speak. Organizers made that decision to keep the event nonpartisan, consistent with the DAR's standing as a nonprofit, nonpolitical organization chartered by Congress in 1896.

If you go

  • What: Constitution Day celebration and citywide bell-ringing
  • When: Thursday, Sept. 17, 3–4:15 p.m. (bells ring at 4 p.m.)
  • Where: SeaWalk Pavilion, Jacksonville Beach
  • Cost: Free
  • Details: Pocket Constitutions, American flags and bells will be distributed to attendees

Upcoming community events

  • Thursday, Oct. 1: Blessing of the Animals at ESJ Beaches Campus
  • Saturdays: Atlantic Beach farmers market, now operated by Dig Local Network