Valley Forge National Historical Park will be the site of a huge celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday on July 4. (DONNA ROVINS – MEDIANEWS GROUP PHOTO)
As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Valley Forge Park Alliance, the nonprofit partner of Valley Forge National Historical Park, is inviting the public to take part in a once-in-a-generation commemoration on July 4.
On Independence Day 2026, the words of the Declaration of Independence will be read aloud at the Maurice Stephens House, a designated House of Declaration within Valley Forge National Historical Park. The live readings will be framed by stirring musical performances, creating a powerful tribute to the ideals that shaped the nation.
The Valley Forge Park Allianceis currently seeking volunteer readers (18+) to perform portions of the Declaration of Independence, and choirs to perform The National Anthem and “America the Beautiful.”
Calling All Readers
Volunteer readers will share the text of the Declaration in a collaborative reading format throughout the day. Ideal participants will have a strong, clear voice and the ability to convey the emotion and urgency of the colonies’ break from Britain.
Selected readers must be available on July 4 and willing to participate in a rehearsal (date to be announced).
To audition, applicants must submit a 90-second video reading of the Preamble via the online Reader Audition Form.
Calling All Choirs
VFPA also invites choirs to help frame each reading with a cappella performances. Selected choirs will open the program with The National Anthem and close with “America the Beautiful.”
Choirs may apply by submitting a sample of past performances through the online Choir Audition Form.
Event Details
• Date: July 4, 2026
• Location: Maurice Stephens House, Valley Forge National Historical Park
• Performance Times: 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., or 3:00 p.m. (assigned)
• Time Commitment: Approximately 2-3 hours on-site
• Application Deadline: March 18, 2026
“This is a meaningful opportunity for community members to stand where history happened and give voice to the words that continue to define our nation,” said Valley Forge Park Alliance Executive Director Molly Duffy. “As Valley Forge plays a central role in America’s 250th anniversary, we are proud to invite the public to participate in this historic moment.”
For 250 years, the Declaration of Independence has called Americans to the enduring ideals of liberty, equality, and civic responsibility. The July 4 program at Valley Forge will invite thousands of visitors to reflect on those principles and consider their relevance for generations to come.
Interested applicants must apply by March 18. Audition details and application forms are available at:
• Vocal: https://vfparkalliance.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/july-4-2026-choir-participation-at-valley-forge
• Reader: https://vfparkalliance.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/july-4-2026-declaration-reader-application
About Valley Forge Park Alliance
The Valley Forge Park Alliance is the nonprofit partner of Valley Forge Historical National Park. Since 1976, VFPA has inspired appreciation for and citizen stewardship of the Park by supporting preservation, education, and visitor engagement initiatives that ensure the Park’s landscape and legacy endure for future generations.
