Sisters of Notre Dame - 4th of July

The Final Festival

Sisters of Notre Dame - 4th of July

Sisters of Notre Dame - 103rd - 4th of July

Festival Overview

2025 event details are final!

  • Friday July 4, 2025

  • 1601 Dixie Highway, Covington, KY 41011
  • 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Historical Context and Evolution

The Sisters of Notre Dame (SND) 4th of July Festival, held annually at St. Joseph Heights in Covington, KY, began in 1922 and concluded its 103rd year in 2025. Starting as a modest gathering, it grew into a major regional event, evolving with modern additions like online auctions while preserving traditions like raffles. The 100th festival in 2022 celebrated its history with a "Festival Through the Decades" theme, marking a post-COVID return.

Purpose and Impact

As the SND's primary fundraiser, the festival supported:

  • Education: Notre Dame Academy, NDUEC tutoring, and Ugandan schools (600+ students).
  • Healthcare/Social Services: Rose Garden Mission, DCCH Center, and St. Charles Care Center.
  • Global Missions: Serving 19 countries, focusing on women and children in poverty.
  • Vocation Ministry: Promoting spiritual growth.

Fundraising included a Grand Raffle ($5,000 top prize) and online auctions, sustaining transformative ministries.

Key Features

Attendees enjoyed grilled favorites, food trucks, beer, and soft drinks, creating a festive vibe.

Live music by bands like "The Closers," Honey Hill Farm animals, pony rides, and children's games were highlights.

The Grand Raffle ($5 tickets), online silent auction (June 27–July 4), and 4th of July Market with handmade goods drove fundraising.

Volunteers, sponsors (e.g., Verst Group Logistics), and festival market boxes fostered community involvement.

Significance in Northern Kentucky

A cornerstone of July 4th celebrations, the festival's family-friendly, faith-based focus set it apart from larger events. Held at St. Joseph Heights, it built community bonds, engaged volunteers, and showcased the SND's mission, drawing thousands annually.

The Final Festival (2025)

The 103rd festival, the last, will feature food trucks, live music, raffles, and auctions, ending a century-long tradition with gratitude.

Legacy and Community Response

The festival raised millions for education, healthcare, and missions, built generational traditions, and shared the SND's mission. Its end sparked nostalgia, with memories preserved in photos and social media.