Sharing the Spirit of America

Event Summary

Date(s): Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm
Venue: Greenfield Village
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Event Description

Greenfield Village as we partake in a nationwide commemoration of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. July 8 will mark the 250th anniversary of this historic moment, and community gatherings across the country will simultaneously re-create the occasion with synchronized public readings at exactly 6 p.m.

Evening entry to Greenfield Village will be free to the public as The Henry Ford hosts Michigan’s signature Declaration of Independence reading.

Enjoy a relaxed evening on the Village Green brought to life with live music, historic vignettes and Centennial games. Interactive activities will offer guests the chance to connect with community, reflect on history, and explore shared wishes for the future of our country. At 6 p.m., the same time the Declaration was first publicly read 250 years ago, a group of distinguished readers will present the Declaration of Independence in front of Town Hall.

As our community gathers at The Henry Ford and joins voices across the nation, this event serves as a reminder of the power found in coming together to recognize the moments that continue to shape America’s collective story.

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Games May 16-July 11

Meals in Motion

Saturday, July 11 11a-3p

The event wil also include:

1876 Centennial Games on the Green
Living History Vignettes
Live Musical Performances
Interactive Activities commemorating the Declaration of Independence
- Weave a Wish for American at 250
- Experiment with History: Would I have signed the Declaration in 1776
- Discover the Declaration of Independence in multiple languages with America250MI
- Artifact Exploration with UM Clements Library
Food & Beverages for purchase

Free admission from 5-7p. No outside food or drink is permitted. Bags will be searched. Parking is free, but expect construction on parts of Oakwood Blvd to cause delays or detours.