The War Memorial invites the community to join a nationwide reading of the Declaration of Independence
GROSSE POINTE FARMS, July 1, 2026 – The War Memorial and the Louisa St. Clair Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) invite the community to take part in a nationwide public reading of the Declaration of Independence on Wednesday, July 8, as part of the America250 commemoration.
At 6 p.m. sharp, participants will join communities across the country in a simultaneous public reading of the Declaration of Independence, reaffirming the enduring principles of liberty, self government, and freedom that continue to shape the American experience.
The grounds open for the event at 5:30 p.m., with the reading taking place promptly at 6 p.m. Community leaders and local representatives participating in the reading include City of Grosse Pointe Mayor Sheila Tomkowiak, Grosse Pointe Woods Mayor Arthur Bryant, U.S. Navy Capt. (Ret.) Petersen Decker, War Memorial President & CEO Maria Miller, and Louisa St. Clair Chapter NSDAR Regent Deann Newman.
After the reading, guests are invited to enjoy an ice cream social, and children can participate in patriotic-themed crafts. This event is presented as part of America250, a nationwide commemoration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The event is free, but advance registration is requested at warmemorial.org/events/declaration-of-independence-live-reading. Additionally, it will be livestreamed on The War Memorial’s Facebook and YouTube pages.
Event Details
What: Declaration of Independence Live Reading & Ice Cream Social
When: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Time: Grounds open at 5:30 p.m.; reading begins promptly at 6 p.m.
Where: The War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms
Cost: Free; advance registration requested
Website: warmemorial.org/events/declaration-of-independence-live-reading
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is a nonprofit cultural and community center dedicated to honoring veterans, enriching lives, and bringing people together through meaningful experiences. For more than 75 years, The War Memorial has welcomed thousands of guests annually for arts and cultural programming, patriotic observances, educational opportunities, community events, and private gatherings across its historic lakefront property.
As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to fostering community engagement through accessible programs that recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and provide opportunities that spark connection, learning, creativity, and civic engagement. The organization proudly upholds this legacy of service while creating a sense of belonging for everyone from everywhere.
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org