The Zelienople Historical Society will kick off its Patriotic Porch Tour on Thursday with a hot dog picnic and “Program of Patriotism.”

The historical society's tour, which will run from Thursday through July 8, is billed as an event to unite the borough in a spirit of patriotism around Independence Day.

It kicks off Thursday at the Passavant House grounds with a real American-style event featuring hot dogs from 4 to 6 p.m., followed by a 21-gun salute, a flag-folding ceremony and visits by George Washington, Abe Lincoln and Betsy Ross re-enactors.

Then, through July 8, residents and visitors can tour town, view the registered houses and businesses and vote for their favorite decorations, making sure to return their ballots by July 8. Those who wish to decorate, but have not registered to participate, are not barred from dressing their property in red, white and blue.

On July 9, the society will judge the winners based on the ballot selections. Four prizes are available with the first-, second- and third-place properties receiving monetary prizes and a fourth selection receiving the “People's Choice” award.