Two hundred and fifty years after a bold declaration changed the course of history, the fields of Valley Forge are preparing to echo with celebration once again.

As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Valley Forge Park Alliance (VFPA) — nonprofit partner to Valley Forge National Historical Park — is calling the public to gather on July 4 for what promises to be a once-in-a-generation commemoration.

On Independence Day 2026, 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.

VFPA is currently seeking:

• volunteer readers (age 18 and older) to perform portions of the Declaration of Independence
• vocal groups to perform the national anthem and “America the Beautiful”

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.

VFPA also invites vocal groups 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.” Performers may apply by submitting a sample of past performances through the online Choir Audition Form.

“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 Molly Duffy, VFPA’s Executive Director. “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 Fourth of July 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 here (vocal) and here (reader).