When George Washington’s Continental Army camped at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777, the survival of the American experiment was far from certain.
This July 4, the ground where that story unfolded becomes the setting for a celebration of how far the nation has come.
Valley Forge Park Alliance, the official philanthropic partner of Valley Forge National Historical Park, will host a free public celebration on Saturday, July 4, at the Maurice Stephens House in Valley Forge National Historical Park.
The day will feature history, music, and civic reflection in one of the most symbolically charged settings in the country.
The Readings
At the heart of the program are three public readings of the Declaration of Independence, scheduled for 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.
The Alliance holds an official House of Declaration designation, part of a nationwide America250 initiative recognizing sites chosen to host readings of the founding document.
Rather than solo performances, the readings follow a collaborative format, with community members sharing the text across the day in a collective civic act.
Eleven readers were selected through a public audition process: Jon Ashley, David Bickle, Jeff Devlin, Thomas Friedman, Sandi Gorman, Keith Hughes, Kris Ankarlo, Scott Moon, Colin O’Neill, Lew Osterhoudt, and Diane Reilly.
In Their Own Words
For those chosen, the opportunity is personal. “Being selected as one of the readers of the Declaration of Independence for our nation’s 250th birthday is an honor I never expected,” said Thomas Friedman.
“To speak the words of our founding fathers on this milestone anniversary is a privilege I will carry with great pride.”
Diane Reilly framed it in broader terms: “To read these words aloud, in this place, at this moment in our national life, feels like both a privilege and a responsibility.”
Music, Food, and Family Activities
Patriotic music from The Mainliners Chorus, Concordia Choral Arts, and Valley Forge Chorus will frame the readings throughout the day, with visitors invited to join in the singing.
Family-friendly activities, with food and refreshments for sale by ANEU Kitchens complete the experience.
A Triple Milestone
This July 4 carries a layered significance. The nation marks 250 years of independence.
The park celebrates its own 50th birthday, established on July 4, 1976, when President Gerald Ford signed the legislation at Valley Forge during the Bicentennial.
And Valley Forge Park Alliance marks its 50th anniversary as well. Three milestones, one place, one day.
The Alliance was founded to inspire appreciation for and stewardship of Valley Forge, working through philanthropy, education, and advocacy to preserve the park’s legacy and connect new generations to the history and beauty of the park.
This celebration reflects exactly that mission.
Admission is free. For more information about Valley Forge Park Alliance’s 4th of July readings of the Declaration of Independence, visit vfparkalliance.org.
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