Wellesley Wonderful Weekend, set for May 16-17, will get a jump on the celebrating the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

That milestone is commemorated in the Wellesley celebration’s logo and will be recognized throughout the spring weekend, which features one-time events as well as traditional ones such as the Veterans Parade, municipal open houses, and fireworks.

“At its heart, Wellesley Wonderful Weekend is a celebration of unity” said Carl Nelson, a Wellesley Celebrations Committee board member, in a statement. “While America is vast and diverse, its strength begins in communities like ours—in town centers, along parade routes, and in shared moments of connection and joy. As we gather to mark 250 years since our nation’s founding, we celebrate not only America’s past, but Wellesley’s enduring spirit.”

The Wonderful Weekend actually kicks off on Thursday, May 14 with a special concert at Wellesley Hills Congregatonal Church highlighting Katharine Lee Bates of “America the Beautiful” fame (Bates was a graduate of Wellesley High School (then called Needham High School) and Wellesley College). The concert will feature musical performances by the Wellesley Symphony Orchestra, the Wellesley Town Band, and the Wellesley Choral Society, plus dramatic readings.

On Saturday, May 16 more than 30 free community events will be offered, including open houses at the police and fire stations, and the touch-a-truck spectacular at the Department of Public Works. The day starts with the Pancake Breakfast organized by the Kiwanis Club of Wellesley and also features the Pups in the Park event organized by the Rotary Club of Wellesley.

Also on Saturday: Re-enactments of the creation and writing of The Declaration of Independence with Ben Franklin, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson will be held at Wellesley Town Hall, and of the famous ride of Paul Revere/William Dawes. An encampment of Patriots will be present at Town Hall and the British Artillery will be at Morton Field with live cannon fire.

On Sunday, May 17, the morning begins with the Wonder Run 5K race and Kids Fun Run organized by the Wellesley Hills Junior Women’s Club, as well as an Antique Car Show organized by the Modifiers Car Club of Wellesley on Central Street. Later, residents will line the streets for the 58th Annual Wellesley Veterans Parade, honoring those who have served our country and recognizing the organizations and individuals who serve our community. Wellesley Country Club is sponsoring the parade.

The weekend culminates with an evening concert, community picnic, and fireworks display at Hunnewell Field on Washington Street.

Those interested in sponsoring any weekend events may contact the Wellesley Celebrations Committee at wellesleycelebrations@gmail.com