Celebrate Independence Day Online with the National Archives

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On July 4, 2020, the National Archives along with its nonprofit partner the National Archives Foundation will host a virtual July 4th celebration and related educational programming. These events are free and open to the public​, though registration is required for the programming. 

AARP is proud to be one of the two major sponsors of this July 4^th celebration. ​"AARP is committed to the important work of the National Archives in telling America's story––starting first and foremost with its founding," said Chief of Staff Kevin Donnellan. "As we face unprecedented challenges this year, July 4th will be an important celebration of our country and its relentless citizenry throughout history." 

The National Archives education team will also host a series of programming leading up to and beyond the July 4th celebration, Virtual Journey of the Declaration of Independence, on the @USNatArchives Facebook page. For the full schedule of programs through August 2, visit www.archivesjuly4.org/schedule/virtual-journey.

What are your plans this year for the 4th of July?

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The schedule is as follows:

• 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET:  Family programming
  Activities include welcome remarks from Archivist of the United States David S. Ferriero, a discussion with Thomas Jefferson and other historical reenactors, and educational activities teaching the importance and providing greater understanding of our nation's founding. View the full schedule and register here​.
• 4:00 p.m. ET: Declaration of Independence Ceremony
  For 50 years, the Archives has celebrated the founding of the United States with a traditional reading ceremony of the Declaration of Independence on the Archives Museum steps. This year, the Archives will lift the words off of its well-worn parchment and bring them to homes across the country online. The event will be hosted by journalist Soledad O'Brien, along with reenactors representing Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and John Adams. The ceremony will air on www.archivesjuly4.org and the @USNatArchives Facebook page.​