The Orange County Department of Tourism is excited to promote a wide range of upcoming events and activities related to America’s Semiquincentennial, which is a historically fun word for 250 Anniversary. Please see the opposite page for some upcoming dates and times, and read on to learn more about how to participate in a nationwide celebration in honor of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, which took place on July 8, 1776. th At 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, join the Orange County Historical Society and the James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage on the front steps of the historic Orange County Courthouse for a reading of the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson (re-enacted by Marc Holma). The reading will be followed by the tolling of church bells to commemorate this momentous historical event. Dressing in colonial period clothing is encouraged. This reading will be part of a synchronized reading occurring across the United States in capitol buildings, parks, schools, community centers, and even private homes. Just as the Declaration of Independence was read to the people 250 years ago, this coordinated reading will allow Americans in all 50 states and 16 territories of the United States to unite and celebrate the American spirit. Tourism Department Promotes VA250 Activities, Including Synchronized Reading of the Declaration of Independence Adapted from Orange County Historical Society Press Release with Additional Information from Orange County Tourism Department
Learn more on the Orange County Historical Society’s website at www.orangecovahist.org.
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OCI June 2026
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