Sons of the American Revolution to Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary with Four Days of Public Events in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA, PA. — The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) will participate in a series of public events in Philadelphia from July 2–5, 2026, commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence. Through historical reenactments, educational programming, patriotic ceremonies, and public celebrations, the SAR will honor the people, places, and principles that gave birth to the United States.

The Society’s America 250 activities will include a Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence, participation in the Salute to Independence Parade, the SAR Showcase 250 Celebration on Independence Mall, and a grave marking ceremony honoring five signers of the Declaration of Independence.

“The 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Americans to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and vision of those who secured our independence,” said SAR President General Michael J. Elston. “The Sons of the American Revolution is proud to help bring history to life in the city where our nation was born and to invite the public to join us in honoring the enduring ideals of liberty, self-government, and civic responsibility.”

Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence

On Thursday, July 2, at 1:30 p.m., the SAR will host a Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence at Independence Square, the historic site where the Declaration was first publicly read to the citizens of Philadelphia in 1776.

The program will feature 13 readers portraying individuals who helped shape the Revolutionary era, including members of the Continental Congress, influential women of the Revolution, and notable patriots whose contributions advanced the cause of independence. Featured portrayals will include Mary Katherine Goddard, Betsy Ross, Abigail Adams, and Revolutionary War hero Ned Hector.

Following the reading, attendees will participate in a ceremonial Bell Ringing and Roll Call of the Signers representing each of the original thirteen colonies.

Salute to Independence Parade

On Friday, July 3, the SAR will participate in Philadelphia’s Salute to Independence Parade, joining fellow patriotic, historical, military, and civic organizations in celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. SAR members, Color Guards, and representatives from across the country will march through the historic streets of Philadelphia, honoring the legacy of the Revolutionary generation.

SAR Showcase 250 Celebration

On Saturday, July 4, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the SAR will host the SAR Showcase 250 Celebration on Independence Mall, a free, family-friendly event featuring educational exhibits, historical presentations, youth activities, author appearances, living history demonstrations, and patriotic programming throughout the day.

Highlights include appearances by Benjamin Franklin, performances by the Saint Andrews Bag Pipe Band, presentations on the First Rhode Island Regiment, and talks by acclaimed authors Danielle Allen, Emily Sneff, and Rob Skead. Visitors will also have opportunities to meet the authors during scheduled book signings.

At 2:00 p.m., the SAR Independence 250 Celebration will feature special guest Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and other distinguished guests as Americans gather to commemorate the nation’s founding.

Additional activities include the Declaration Station, Enlistment Station, Education Station, and the SAR Exhibit Tent highlighting the Society’s educational, youth, veterans, and public service programs, as well as the new SAR Education Center and Museum currently under development in Louisville, Kentucky.

Young visitors who complete all activity stations and collect stickers on their event passport card will receive a special commemorative prize.

Declaration Signers Grave Marking Ceremony

On Sunday, July 5, at 1:30 p.m., the SAR will conduct a Grave Marking Ceremony at Christ Church Burial Ground honoring five signers of the Declaration of Independence interred there. The ceremony will recognize the service and sacrifice of these Founding Fathers and provide an opportunity for the public to pay tribute to the men whose signatures helped establish a new nation.

“The story of American independence is best understood by experiencing it where it happened,” said Jeff Thomas, SAR Historian General and America 250 Chair. “These events will allow visitors to walk in the footsteps of the Founders, engage with the people and ideas that shaped our nation, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Revolutionary generation whose vision continues to influence America today.”

All events are open to the public. The SAR encourages residents, visitors, families, educators, and history enthusiasts to join in these commemorations as the nation