Recreating the First Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence

On July 8, 2026, Memphis joins communities across the country for a shared national moment, recreating the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, presented by Tennessee 250.

First read aloud in 1776, these words were meant to be experienced together. Now, 250 years later, that moment returns, bringing people into the same experience across cities, states, and time.

At the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, the Declaration will be read aloud in a live performance setting where the sound, scale, and energy of the room bring the moment to life. A performance by the Memphis Police Department’s Peacemakers connects the experience directly to the Memphis community.

This is not just something to watch. Attendees are invited to step onto the stage, take part in the reading, and sign a full-scale replica.

This free, family-friendly event welcomes the entire Memphis community to come together, engage with history in a meaningful way, and be part of something larger than a single place or moment. The reading begins at noon, just as it did 250 years ago, and lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Parking: Garage at 266 N. Front St. Online kiosks and advance reservations available for $11.41 (tax and fees included).