Location

National Archives. Join us at the National Archives Building as we celebrate July 4 on the Constitution Avenue steps between 7th and 9th Streets. We commemorate this historic day with our Mistress of Ceremonies, Maureen Bunyan, ABC7/WJLA-TV news anchor, and our annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence led by very special guests.

And for the first time, look for the National Archives float in the National Independence Day Parade! The parade starts at 11:45 a.m. The parade route along Constitution Avenue begins at 7th St, NW, and ends at 17th St., NW.

Discovering the National Archives
8:30 A.M.–9:30 A.M.
• Hear the Federal City Brass Band
• Meet Thomas Jefferson and sign a facsimile of the Declaration of Independence
• Purchase items from the Archives Shop

Declaration of Independence Reading Ceremony
10 A.M.–11 A.M.
● Presentation of colors by the Continental Color Guard
● Performance by the Fife and Drum Corps
● Remarks by Archivist of the United States David S. Ferriero
● Dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by special guests including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Ned Hector (portrayed by historical re-enactors)

Inside the National Archives Building
Family Activities
11 A.M.–2 P.M.

Meet Historical Figures in the Rotunda
● Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Abigail Adams, and members of the American Historical Theatre

Historical Activities
● Air your grievances in Revolutionary manner with a quill pen
● Sign a full-size facsimile of the Declaration of Independence
● Listen to stories of our patriotic past in the Boeing Learning Center at 11:30 a.m, 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.