On July 4, 2026, we will gather alongside family, friends, and our fellow citizens to celebrate the birth of an incredible experiment in self-government – the Declaration of Independence. Its opening statement established a historical precedent that our country still lives by: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.”
Never before in human history had a nation been formed upon such a lofty ideal. No kings, no aristocracy, no social hierarchy. Equality and merit would be the basis for this new nation. Today, 250 years later, the American experiment continues – bolstered by its people.
Founding Forward is proud to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial. Even more, we are proud to work year-round to educate students, teachers, League members, and the community about the Declaration and Constitution, which have always been the core components of Founding Forward’s mission.
Together, we celebrate “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness” as we mark this once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Happy Fourth!
Welcoming our country’s newest citizens
Last week, we co-hosted a special naturalization ceremony with the Chester County Bar Association on our Valley Forge campus. Sixty-three individuals from 19 countries took the Oath of Allegiance and became citizens of the United States. We were pleased to welcome several special guests, including Governor Joash Shapiro and Chester County Commissioner Marian Moskowitz.
This ceremony underscored the enduring opportunities and responsibilities of citizenship as America enters its 250th year. We share our utmost congratulations with the new citizens and their families. View more photos from this event.
Celebrate Independence
View some ways you can celebrate America’s birthday:
Visit our new exhibit – Crafting Independence: “All Men Are Created Equal”
This exhibit explores America’s founding ideals of liberty, equality, and merit – first articulated in Philadelphia through the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. View exhibit hours and location details here.
Listen to Path of Patriots
Path of Patriots is a self-guided audio walking tour that brings visitors into the streets of Civil War–era Philadelphia to explore the founding of The Union League of Philadelphia, one of the nation’s most influential civic institutions. Learn more
Meet a hero
Specialist Five Dwight W. Birdwell will share his story during an upcoming speaker program on Monday, July 6, on how he became the 33rd Native American soldier to receive the Medal of Honor for “acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty” for his heroic actions in Vietnam. Sign up today.
Attend a teacher or student program
At Founding Forward, we celebrate the Declaration year-round! Check out our engaging, immersive teacher professional development seminars and student programs to continue learning about our country’s history in the places where it happened.