July 4th at the National Archives!

The National Archives will hold its annual Fourth of July program on the steps on Constitution Avenue, featuring family-friendly activities, historical reenactments—including a reading of the Declaration of Independence—and a salute to 250 years of the United States Military—the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps all turn 250 in 2025—with special performances by military bands and remarks from Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. (Ret.), a distinguished naval aviator who is one of the longest-held American Prisoners of War during the Vietnam War and to whom the Congressional Gold Medal will soon be awarded. 

All July 4th activities are free and open to the public. The full schedule can be found at archivesjuly4.org.

The National Archives Museum will be open to the public for extended hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 3–5. Timed entry tickets to see the original Declaration of Independence in person are encouraged, but not required.

“On behalf of the Acting Archivist of the United States, I invite those gathered in our Nation’s Capital to begin their Fourth of July holiday at the National Archives, a right and fitting place to celebrate and reflect on the history of our great country, all of which is preserved forever in the National Archives,” said Jim Byron, Senior Advisor to the Acting Archivist of the United States, appointed by President Trump to manage the National Archives day to day. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of American Independence, it is important to ensure that successive generations of Americans can appreciate their history and founding story and see the fruits of the vision and courage of America’s Founders—including the original Declaration of Independence.”

“July 4th marks the beginning of our great experiment and the first chapter in our nation’s story,” said Rodney Slater, Chair and President of the National Archives Foundation. “This incredible story lives within the walls of the National Archives—home of the original Declaration of Independence and billions of other records from our past. This year’s celebration will be particularly special as we honor the U.S. Military and service members who have safeguarded our freedom and democracy for 250 years.” 

July 4th at the National Archives is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of Comcast Corporation, Microsoft, and P&G. Additional support provided by Ancestry, The Boeing Company, John Hancock, and Dykema.