Reading of the Declaration of Independence

Just as the Declaration of Independence was read to the people on July 8, 1776, now, 250-years later, Americans in all 50 States, 5 Territories, the District of Columbia, and Minor Outlying Islands of the United States will read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’.

Even though the United States is spread across thousands of miles and ten different time zones, all of us in America may read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’, at the ‘same’ time. Unlike the extent of the Colonies in 1776, today, America spans about 9,500-miles from one extreme to the other (the Caribbean across North America to the western edge of the Pacific).

With a start time based on 6 p.m. (EDT), July 8, 2026 (commemorating the first public reading), people in communities across America will begin reading the Declaration of Independence.

Westlake: July 8, 6 p.m. – Westlake Porter Public Library, Friends Pavilion

Avon: July 8, 7 p.m. – Avon Senior Center – Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

North Ridgeville: July 8, 6 p.m. – Council Chambers at City Hall. North Ridgeville’s local event will begin with Mayor Kevin Corcoran kicking off the reading, followed by members of the public who would like to participate. The event is being held in partnership with the Boy Scouts, who will provide cake and beverages, and the North Ridgeville Historical Society, which will have a copy of the Declaration available for attendees to sign to mark the occasion. Community members are invited to attend and take part in this meaningful America 250 observance.