In 2023, the Freedom Flame celebration in Ripon was bittersweet, marked by a poignant sense of loss and resilience in the face of adversity. The iconic Republican house, a red brick building adjacent to the historic little white schoolhouse, along with the majestic 200-plus-year-old oak trees, had been demolished. The once vibrant canvas of the historic landmark now stood bare, resembling a mouth that had lost all but one of its teeth.

Adding to the sense of uncertainty was the looming possibility that the cherished schoolhouse would soon be relocated, altering the landscape of the celebration for years to come. Despite the devastation of the physical environment, Ripon and the world bore witness to the unwavering tenacity of the FREEDOM LOVERS who have kept this tradition alive.

Despite the challenges, the 2023 celebration was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of freedom. On the ground in Ripon, people from across the state and nation, some traveling from as far as California, gathered to honor the spirit of freedom and unity. Simultaneously, a worldwide audience of more than 2,000 people joined in the celebration virtually, demonstrating the global significance of the Freedom Flame tradition.

In 2022 rob wittchow , Scott Zemlicka , Orlando Nieves and a dedicated team of FREEDOM LOVERS worked tirelessly to organize the on-the-ground celebration in Ripon, Wisconsin. Their unwavering commitment and passion for freedom fueled their efforts as they meticulously planned every detail of the physical event.

Meanwhile, across the globe, the digital spark of the celebration was sent far and wide, reaching 77 countries worldwide. Through live streams, virtual events, and social media, people from every corner of the globe joined in solidarity, united by their shared love for freedom.

In its inaugural year, the "WALK OF FLAME" left an indelible mark on the Ripon celebration, enriching the experience for all who participated and setting the stage for future years of joy, camaraderie, and unity. By bringing the celebration to the streets of Ripon, we reminded ourselves and the world that the spirit of freedom is alive and well in our hearts and communities.

In 2021, our online virtual attendance experienced an extraordinary surge, doubling in numbers from previous years. This remarkable growth was a testament to the enduring significance of our celebration and the power of technology to unite people across vast distances.

As the world came together in virtual solidarity, a breathtaking display unfolded. Candles were lit from the highest peaks of the Himalayan Mountains in India, casting their warm glow into the crisp mountain air. Across the globe, from New Zealand's serene landscapes to the bustling cities of Germany and Canada, individuals joined in the timeless tradition, lighting candles to honor the FREEDOM FLAME.

Meanwhile, in Ripon, Wisconsin, the birthplace of the Republican Party, the FREEDOM FLAME burned brightly, a symbol of hope and unity that transcended borders and boundaries. Against the backdrop of history, the flame flickered with renewed vigor, fueled by the collective spirit of all who participated in the celebration, both near and far.

By 2020 our third celebration, the world, had undergone profound transformations, reshaping the landscape of our lives in ways we could never have imagined. Despite the tumultuous reality we faced, a small but courageous group of individuals gathered once again in Ripon on March 20th, unwavering in their commitment to keeping the flame of freedom alive.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties that surrounded us, the barley flickering freedom flame continued to burn brightly both virtually in hearts and homes around the world and in Ripon. It served as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the enduring power of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

In 2019, our second celebration saw a heartening growth in attendance, with more individuals joining us in our mission to keep the flame of freedom burning bright. Building upon the momentum of the inaugural event, our gathering swelled by a handful of passionate souls, each dedicated to preserving the values that define the essence of America.

As we gathered once again both online and in Ripon, Wisconsin, the birthplace of the Republican Party, it was evident that the flame of freedom had ignited a spark within the hearts of many. With renewed determination, we stood together, united in our commitment to uphold the principles of liberty, justice, and equality for all.