In partnership with Illinois Humanities
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 from 2 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
In partnership with Illinois Humanities, the Peoria Riverfront Museum is proud to present a celebration of Illinois, and its role in shaping American history on the 250th anniversary of the day that the Declaration of Independence was read to the public for the very first time.
This day is completely FREE to the general public, including all activities and museum galleries.Tours of The Promise of Liberty will be available at 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
A tour of Joyful Resistance will be available at 3:30 p.m.
Schedule
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. | Activities and crafts on the Sun Plaza
Join us on the Sun Plaza and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the first reading of the Declaration of Independence with fun crafts and activities for the whole family!
2 p.m. | National Parks Adventure
In this Smithsonian educational documentary narrated by Robert Redford tours the awe-inspiring landscapes, historic sites and untames wilderness of America's great parks.
3 p.m. | Reading of the Declaration of Independence on the Sun Plaza
Join us on the Sun Plaza for a special reading of the Declaration of Independence in its entirety, read aloud by community representatives. See history come to life, as you hear the same words that were read when our nation began, 250 years ago.
4:30 p.m. | Dueling pianos with Mark De Zwaan and Dr. Ji Hyun Kim
A duel of the spouses! Bradley University assistant professor of music and his wife, Dr. Ji Hyun Kim go head to head with dueling pianos.
6 p.m. | Panel Discussion in the Giant Screen Theater
Hear perspectives from across our state with a panel discussion moderated by Gabriel Lyon, executive director of Illinois Humanities and Illinois America 250 Commission Chair. This talk will feature four panelist: Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, Dennis Stroughmatt, Preston Jackson and Rose Miron.
Reserve your place HERE
This event in partnership with Illinois Humanities
Sponsored by America 250 donors, Visionary Society, Friends of History
