By 1808Delaware
A beloved Delaware County tradition is returning this summer, as the Delaware County Historical Society (DCHS) prepares to host the 3rd Annual Stratford Festival & Ice Cream Social on Sunday, July 27. Taking place at the historic Barn at Stratford (2690 Stratford Rd, Delaware), the event runs from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM and promises an afternoon filled with history, music, and plenty of frozen treats.
An Afternoon Packed with Family Fun
This family-friendly celebration offers something for all ages. Guests can enjoy ice cream and gelato from Riverside Dairy, refreshments from the Backstretch Food Truck, and a nostalgic lineup of old-fashioned children’s games, weaving demonstrations, and hands-on craft projects.
Six 1850s-era houses at Historic Stratford will be open for docent-led tours. For many, this alone is worth the visit. But the afternoon holds even more: live music by the Presbyterian Pickers, square dancing demonstrations, a caricature artist, and a replica archaeological dig site for kids ages 4–12.
A Celebration of Local History and Community
Adding to the magic of the day will be performances by Magician Nate the Great and appearances by historical reenactors portraying notable Delaware County figures. Visitors will also find historic items for sale, and guided tours of the Meeker Museum and Barn.
“For the third year in a row, we’re excited to welcome the community to enjoy the beautiful historic Stratford area with friends, family, and other history lovers,” said Donna Meyer, DCHS Executive Director. “We’re delighted to share the area history of the Stratford papermill and the residents who worked there. With games and activities for kids and, of course, ice cream, we can’t think of a better way to enjoy the summer.”
Bringing the Past to Life with Local Support
The festival is made possible through support from community sponsors, including Performance Auto, SFM Insurance, DelCo Water, State Farm Insurance – Tito Paul, Clarity Technology Solutions, Foust Engineering, and Maribelle Events LTD.
More Than a Festival – A Mission to Preserve
The Delaware County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the region’s heritage through educational programming, exhibits, and stewardship of historic sites like the Nash House, Meeker Homestead, and the Delaware Historic Jail & Sheriff’s Residence.
For more on this event or other offerings, visit https://www.delawareohiohistory.org. To learn more about renting the venue for your next event, visit https://barnatstratford.org.
Source: Delaware County Historical Society
