Annapolis, MD — Just in time for its 25th Anniversary, the Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area (CCHA), in partnership with Annapolis 250 and the Maryland Two-Fifty Commission, is encouraging and supporting a series of public readings of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 2026 promptly at 6 pm.
The community-led events are part of the nationwide “Spirit of America” initiative, where citizens across all 50 states and U.S. territories will gather to read the Declaration of Independence aloud together, synchronized across time zones, commemorating the historic moment the Declaration was first read publicly across the colonies on July 8, 1776.
While CCHA is sponsoring and promoting the initiative throughout the region, the individual readings are being independently hosted and organized by local residents, businesses, museums, heritage organizations, neighborhood groups, and community partners. As of July 3, TWENTY-FIVE locations across Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis have confirmed participation.
“These readings are intended to be grassroots, welcoming, and uniquely local,” said C. Jane Cox, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area. “Communities throughout the City and County are creating their own special gatherings that invite people to pause and reflect on our nation’s founding ideals and consider how we can all continue pursuing those aspirations today.”
Participating locations range from stoops, balconies, waterfront and neighborhood parks to museums, historic buildings, Annapolis City Hall, the Treasury Building on State House grounds and even out on the Bay. All readings are free and open to the public. Several participating sites will also offer readings in Spanish, including events hosted by the Chesapeake Children’s Museum and Picante Restaurant on West Street, reflecting the inclusive and community-centered spirit of the initiative.
Participating organizations and locations include the homes of the Singers including Hammond-Harwood and the Charles Carroll House; a reading at Annapolis City Hall, and at Historic Londontown led by County Executive Pittmann. There will even be at least two readings out on the water, from the rail of Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, and with Historic Annapolis on board the Catherine Marie. CCHA encourages everyone to join in– and find a location in your neighborhood. An interactive map of participating locations, as well as downloadable “reader” copies of the Declaration of Independence, and event resources are available at:
Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area – Spirit of America Event Page
Organizers also encourage participants and attendees to share photos and videos from the events on social media using the hashtags #chesapeakecrossroads, #Annapolis250, and #Maryland250.
About the Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area
The Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area preserves and promotes the history, culture, and natural heritage of Anne Arundel County and Annapolis through partnerships, education, technical support and public engagement initiatives.
