Wisconsin to join worldwide, simultaneous reading of the Declaration of Independence with event at state capitol

MADISON, WI – On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, the Wisconsin America250 Commission invites Badgers from across the state to stand together for a historic global moment of unity: Sharing the Spirit of America.

This free civic event features a synchronized public reading of the Declaration of Independence inside the State Capitol Rotunda in Madison.

• When: Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Opening remarks begin at 4:55 PM CDT.
• The Big Moment: At exactly 5:00PM CDT, Wisconsin voices will unite with hundreds of thousands of people across all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and seven continents to read the text -simultaneously.

The event marks exactly 250 years from the day the Declaration was first publicly read to citizens in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

A Moment of Unity and Reflection

Sharing the Spirit of America is a cornerstone of the nation’s unfolding 250th anniversary celebrations. The synchronized reading serves as a powerful reminder of our history.

“Our goal for the 250th anniversary is to make this milestone deeply meaningful and local for every resident of the Badger State,” said Christopher Kolakowski, Chair of the Wisconsin America 250 Commission. “Reading these words together is not just about looking backward at our history; it is a profound exercise in national unity. It calls on all of us to reflect on our shared journey, our enduring democratic principles, and the ongoing work of shaping a more perfect union.”

Three Ways Badgers Can Participate

• Join us in Madison: The event is entirely free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to arrive at the Capitol Rotunda by 4:45PM CDT.
• Watch the Live Stream: For those unable to travel to Madison, the entire ceremony will be broadcast live statewide on Wisconsin Eye (WisEye), allowing residents to participate from home or work. Join the livestream.
• Host a Local Reading: If you can’t make it to the Capitol, the Commission encourages families, neighbors, and local civic organizations to hold their own readings. Whether standing in the Capitol or on a front porch in Superior, La Crosse, or Milwaukee, all participants will read the text together at 5:00 PM CDT.

To learn more about the event, register your reading location, or to find a reading near you, visit the Sharing the Spirit of America webpage at https://hawaiiamerica250.org/sharing-the-spirit-of-america.

About the Wisconsin America250 Commission

The Wisconsin America250 Commission (A250WI) is an independent state body dedicated to sharing the unique story of the Badger State during the United States’ Semiquincentennial. Established by the 2021 Wisconsin Act 95, its primary mission is to highlight the specific impact of Wisconsin’s people and history on our nation’s past, present, and future.