Philadelphia's Historical Stories; Storytelling Benches, Evening Programs, Brand-New Tours, and Franklin Square to Open

PHILADELPHIA, June 14 /PRNewswire/ -- America's history was written on the corners of Colonial Philadelphia, and Once Upon A Nation is bringing these stories and more to life all summer long. Storytelling, exclusive tours, Colonial fun, and Founding Fathers will fill the daytime and evening hours which began Memorial Day Weekend, and will last through Labor Day and into the fall. Once Upon A Nation is Philadelphia's unique program for bringing history to life, featuring Adventure Tours (paid walking and bus tours), evening performances such as the interactive "1776: The Movie-Musical" and storytelling by historical heroes, Harmony Lane (Colonial characters and children's games), and free storytelling benches throughout the Historic District.

Unique Tours Travel Through Time

Once Upon A Nation's unique guided tours of Philadelphia's historic treasures run all summer long. Daytime tours range from excursions through the Historic District to a brand-new tour to Valley Forge National Historical Park. Go on a "Hunt for Democracy" (Thursdays and Saturdays) throughout the historic area and be introduced to both sides of the heated argument over Independence. Guests conclude the tour with a secret meeting and a toast (if they are in favor) to Independence. On "The Road to Valley Forge: Secrets & Spies Tour" (debuts June 17, Saturdays through September 2), guests will journey back in time for a top-secret mission led by an American spy. While at Valley Forge, they will experience the everyday soldier life of the ragtag Continental Army, travel through encampments, and report to Washington's headquarters to receive orders from the General himself. On the brand-new "Colonial Kids' Quest Tour" (debuted June 9, Fridays and Saturdays through September 2), children can sign up to become a junior detective and help solve the mystery of a missing copy of the Declaration of Independence with some Colonial friends.

Evening tours let visitors soak up more history after the sun goes down. The "Independence After Hours Evening Adventure Tour" (Tuesdays through Saturdays) is a walking tour of some of the landmarks of Philadelphia's Historic District and is populated with Colonial characters who bring history to life right in the place where it happened. Tour takers walk through the shadows of Independence Hall (in this unique opportunity to visit inside the Hall at night, with no crowds) and experience what those late nights of the summer of 1776 were like for the Founding Fathers. (Tour includes dinner at City Tavern, Independence Hall visitation, and The Lights of Liberty Show.) One of the most popular programs of Once Upon A Nation is the "Tippler's Tour" (Thursdays), a tavern tour of Colonial and modern-day watering holes. A Colonial Bar Keep, acting as hostess or host, shares historical facts about the traditions of drinking and leads guests in Colonial drinking songs and toasts.

Storytelling and Other Free Programs Every Day and All Summer Long

Once Upon A Nation's signature storytelling benches entertain visitors every day from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. With visitors from around the world coming to Philadelphia, Once Upon A Nation's storytellers remind them of where it all began. For 2006, two new locations have been added (Elfreth's Alley and Harmony Lane) and over 30 new stories will captivate listeners. Children can pick up a Story Flag at any storytelling bench, then collect a star from every storyteller on their journey. Flags with all 13 stars can be redeemed at the Independence Living History Center for a special book that includes coupons to Jones restaurant, and other special offers. The benches, and all of Once Upon A Nation's free programs, are geared toward children, adults, and history lovers of all ages. Other free daily highlights include the "Military Muster," "Harmony Lane," and "Meeting Ben Franklin" under the Mulberry Tree.

And Coming in July ... Franklin Square

Beginning in July, Franklin Square will be Philadelphia's newest tourism destination. In an effort to reclaim green space for Philadelphia residents and further enliven the Historic District, Once Upon A Nation will open the newly revitalized Square as a legacy to the celebration of Benjamin Franklin's 300th birthday. Franklin Square, the last of William Penn's original five squares to be developed, will be completely renovated with new walkways, lighting, and landscaping as well as spectacular brand-new features. The new elements include the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, Philly Mini Golf, two playgrounds, Once Upon A Nation's unique brand of storytelling, craft demonstrations, Philly snacks, and a renovated Franklin Square Fountain. Franklin Square attractions will be open 7 days a week through October 31.

Fall Forward with Special Once Upon A Nation Happenings

After the storytelling benches are packed away for the season on September 5, several tours will continue to entertain visitors throughout the fall. Both the "Tippler's Tour" and "Independence After Hours" continue through the end of October. In addition there is an October-only tour: spooky storytelling and spine-tingling tales return to Philadelphia's Historic District with "Cobwebs & Cobblestones."

Once Upon A Nation is an initiative of Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI). Historic Philadelphia, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1994 by then-Mayor Edward G. Rendell. HPI works closely with Historic District stakeholders and the hospitality community to continue to build Philadelphia's tourism industry into an engine for economic growth. Through interpretation, interactive experiences, and Adventure Tours, Once Upon A Nation will enhance the tourist experience in Philadelphia, educate the visitor, and make our nation's history relevant to today. For more information, call (215) 629-4026 or visit http://www.onceuponanation.org/ to buy tickets online.

For more complete information and details, visit http://www.onceuponanation.org/html/15_00_00.php.

EDITOR'S NOTE: High-resolution photographs are available for media usage at: http://www.onceuponanation.org/html/15_01_00.php.