The celebration will include patriotic music, a dramatic reading of the Declaration by historical reenactors and free family activities and entertainment for all ages.
Location
National Archives BuildingConstitution Avenue steps
between 7th and 9th Streets, NW
Washington, DC
See a map of the National Mall
Seating on the Constitution Avenue steps is available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Highlights of the day include:
Ceremony - 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Presentation of Colors by the Continental Color Guard
- Performance by the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry (The Old Guard) Fife and Drum Corps
- Remarks by Archivist of the United States Adrienne Thomas
- Dramatic Reading of the Declaration of Independence by special guests along with historical reenactors Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Ned Hector, and by middle school National History Day award winners.
(Rotunda and Presidential Conference Rooms)
Meet Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Gen. Bernardo deGalvez, and other historical figures
Patriotic Activities in the Jefferson Room
- Air your grievances in a Revolutionary manner with a quill pen
- Don a tri-corner hat and step up to the podium to declare your independence
- Show patriotic pride with a National Archives temporary tattoo
BIG! A special exhibition celebrating the 75th anniversary of the National Archives and featuring big records, big events, and big ideas. "BIG" Exhibit related activities include:
- A "BIG" treasure hunt
- Design and receive a BIG award
- Use a pantograph to make large scale drawings
- Color in a BIG version of the Declaration of Independence Faulkner Mural
In honor of the Fourth of July celebration, the National Archives Experience will extend its visiting hours for the entire weekend. The National Archives Experience will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, July 3, Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5. Normal summer visiting hours of 10 a.m.-7 p.m. resume Monday, July 6.
Read More About Fourth of July in Washington, DC
