On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence marked the birth of a new nation founded on the ideals of liberty and self-government. While Illinois would not become the 21st state until 1818, generations of Illinoisans have helped shape the American story ever since.
As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Illinois America 250 invites you to experience a reading of this historic document. Accompanied by guided reflection questions, this 10-minute audio experience offers an opportunity to explore the words that helped define our nation and consider what they mean today.
Declaration of Independence
Read the Declaration Together
One of the best ways to experience the Declaration of Independence is by reading it aloud with others. Illinois America 250 encourages you to gather with family, friends, classmates, coworkers, or your community to reflect on this foundational document together.
The Declaration has been divided into 12 short sections, each taking about one minute to read aloud. As each person takes a turn reading, pause briefly between sections to reflect on the words and the ideals they represent. Together, this shared reading takes approximately 12 minutes and offers an opportunity to connect with our nation's history while considering its meaning today.
Reflect & Discuss
The Declaration of Independence is more than a historic document; it is an invitation to consider the principles that have shaped our nation for nearly 250 years. As you listen or read, take time to reflect on these ideas with your family, friends, classmates, coworkers, or community.
Natural Rights
Equality
Government by the People
Creating Change
Sharing Ideas
Find a Reading Near You!
As of July 1st 2026, the following towns will be hosting a simultaneous reading of the Declaration of Independence at 5 pm CST on July 8th
Addison
Aledo – Central Park
Alton – Lincoln-Douglas Square
Barry – New Philadelphia Historic Site
Batavia – Flag Day Monument
Bloomington-Normal (Connie Link Ampitheatre)
Bolingbrook – Village Hall
Brussels - Francis Pohlman Post 685
Carthage – The Legacy Theater
Champaign – UIUC – by the Alma Mater on campus
Chicago – Chicago History Museum
Chicago – Galewood Neighbors @ Rutherford Sayre Park
Chicago – Newberry Library, Ruggles Hall
Chicago – Pullman National Historical Park
Chicago- American Writers Museum
DeKalb – DeKalb County Courthouse
Elgin – Elgin History Museum with SAR/DAR
Glen Ellyn – Historical Society
Highland Park – Memorial Park Bandstand
Hinckley – Community Building
Kaskaskia – Liberty Bell of the West at Kaskaskia Square
Lockport – Lincoln Landing
Marion - Tower Square Plaza
Maroa – Maroa Public Library
Marquette Heights – Creve Couer Area, 715 Lincoln Road
Mendota – Graves-Hume Library
Mendota – Veterans Park
Milo Township – Township Hall
Nauvoo – Camp Eastman
Oak Park – Scoville Park
Palatine – Harper College Outdoor Pavilion
Peoria Riverfront Museum
Pontiac – Livingston County Courthouse steps
River Forest – Scoville Park
Roanoke – Roanoke Park
Rockford – Tinker Swiss Cottage
Rockford – Veterans' Memorial Hall
Sandwich – Veteran's Park
Schuyler County – Court House
Skokie – Holocaust Remembrance
Springfield - Old State Capitol - Sec of State/Archives/Library/ISM
Taylorville – Christian County Courthouse
Tuscola – Douglas County Courthouse
Vandalia – Statehouse Historical Site
West Frankfort – Veterans Military Museum
Willowbrook – Indian Prairie Public Library