Sharing the Spirit of America

Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence

July 8, 2026 | 5:45p.m. 

On July 8, Americans in every U.S. state and territory will gather to read the Declaration of Independence simultaneously. Spanning multiple time zones and thousands of miles, this nationwide event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration's printing and distribution throughout the colonies. In North Carolina, this will happen at 6p.m. at Halifax State Historic Site. 

Join fellow North Carolinians in taking part in this historic nationwide observance and hear the words that helped launch a nation.

Arrive at 5:45 p.m. for refreshments and opening remarks before the reading begins at 6:00 p.m. Those unable to attend in person may watch via livestream.