WILLISTON — Visitors to Fort Buford State Historic Site near Williston can surround themselves with music and history during “Folk Music at the Fort” on Saturday, July 18.

Step inside the historic Fort Buford barracks for an afternoon of music, movement and merriment inspired by the 19th century. This folk music program will feature period-appropriate tunes familiar to soldiers, families, and visitors on the frontier. Between musical sets, participants will be guided through simple, easy-to-learn social dances, offering a glimpse into how music and dance helped build community, relieve stress and bring people together at frontier posts.

Admission is free but limited to 30 participants. Registration is required at FolkMusic.eventbrite.com by July 17. No prior musical or dance experience is necessary.

This event is part of the ND250 commemoration celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Fort Buford State Historic Site was one of several military posts established to protect overland and river routes used by immigrants settling the West. It operated from 1866 to 1895 and is probably best known as the place where Hunkpapa Lakota leader Sitting Bull relinquished his rifle to the U.S. government in 1881.