July 8 is the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, which took place on July 8, 1776, in Philadelphia, four days after the document was adopted by the Continental Congress. Colonel John Nixon read the declaration to the public in what is now called Independence Square.
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Partnering with Daughters of the American Revolution Constantia Chapter, Suffolk Tourism is pleased to present Patriots in the Park: ​Commemorating the First Public Reading of The Declaration of Independence,

Wednesday, July 8, 5:00 - 8:00pm, at Downtown Festival Park. Free and open to the public.
Activities include:
Official reading of the Declaration of Independence
Civil Air Patrol Presentation of Colors
​National Anthem

Live Music

• The Second Ending Brass Quintet
• Yorktown Fifes & Drums

 

• Living History Reenactors portraying colonial life as soldiers, women and children, indigenous peoples, African Americans, agriculture/cooking, education/faith, music, games, crafts, etc.
• Merchants & Exhibitors
• “All-American Picnic Food” by AJ Downtown Dogs

​Juneteenth is a national holiday, but do you know why it is important? Welcome to Know Your History. We will be watching a film on Juneteenth's history and importance. Afterwards, enjoy some refreshments and group discussion after the film. Come with a question or two, leave with an open mind. For adults and high school ages.

No registration required to attend in person. Registration required to attend virtually via Zoom.
Registered participants will receive a link to the Zoom meeting at least 15 minutes before the event begins.
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