Elementary-aged kids are spending this week learning what pioneer life looked like in 1860s Hilliard at the Historical Village in Weaver Park.

History Express Camp, a partnership between the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society and Hilliard Recreation & Parks, runs through Aug. 7, at 4162 Columbia St. The weeklong program includes daily hands-on activities, tours of the Historical Village & Museum and a visit from a yet-to-be-named "special historical guest." The camp is sold out.

The program is one piece of a packed summer for the society, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary year alongside America's 250th birthday. HOHS volunteers staffed the Historical Village daily during Franklin County Fair Week in late July, and the nonprofit rolled three patriotically decorated antique vehicles into the Fourth of July Parade. Life member Joann Hensley rode as the 2026 Grand Marshal.

HOHS President Dawn Steele wrote in the society's July 2026 newsletter that she hopes the busy calendar draws new visitors. "We are hopeful these events will bring extra visitors to our Historical Village, so we will be looking for extra volunteers during those shifts to help with tours and staffing the buildings," Steele wrote.

Families who missed camp registration still have free options ahead. The Historical Village is open every Saturday and Sunday, 1–5 p.m., through Sept. 26, with a gift shop on site.

Upcoming HOHS events:

• Friday, Aug. 14 — Lunchtime Live at the Historical Village Gazebo, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. (hands-on craft activity 1–2 p.m.). Bring a lunch and a lawn chair. Free.
• Saturday, Aug. 15 — Food Truck Festival at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. More than 50 food trucks, a kid zone, live entertainment and local artisans. Historical Village open 1–5 p.m. for free tours.
• Sunday, Aug. 30 — International Festa-val. International performances, music, a cultural fashion show, food, art and family activities. Historical Village open 1–5 p.m. for free tours.
• Saturday, Sept. 26, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. — Heritage Day, the society's official 60th anniversary celebration. Live pioneer history, hands-on activities, music, dancing, an Ohio Village Muffins Game, a Ulysses S. Grant impersonator, crafts and food. Free admission (donations welcome). Parking at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, 4100 Columbia St.

Residents interested in volunteering at the Aug. 15 or Aug. 30 events can text Megan Martin at 614-565-3210 or email [email protected].