Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence Set July 8

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the community is invited to gather for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence at 6pm Wednesday, July 8, 2026, as part of the nationwide “Sharing the Spirit of America” initiative.

While July 4, 1776, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress, it was July 8, 1776, when the Declaration was first read publicly to citizens in Philadelphia. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of that historic moment, communities in all 50 states and US territories will gather simultaneously to read the Declaration aloud.

The free community event will be presented from the steps of the Potomac Building, facing the governmental center lawn in Leonardtown, and will feature elected officials and community leaders.

Community members are encouraged to attend, bring lawn chairs or blankets. A light reception with refreshments will follow the reading.

Guests are encouraged to arrive by 5:45pm

The Potomac Building is at 23115 Leonard Hall Drive.

In the event of inclement weather, the reading will be held inside the Potomac Building.

Those unable to attend in person may watch the event live on SMCG TV Channel 95 or via YouTube at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.