Spirit of Independence Festival invites families and communities to explore American history through interactive programs, performances, and hands-on experiences.
WASHINGTON, D.C.—On May 5, 2026, the National Archives Foundation announced the Spirit of Independence Festival, a spectacular multi-day festival taking place from June 4-6, 2026, in the heart of Washington, D.C., to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Hosted beneath a tent spanning two city blocks in front of the National Archives—the home of the original Declaration of Independence—the Spirit of Independence Festival will include free daytime events for families and three evening benefit events to support the National Archives Foundation and its effort to engage the American public with our nation’s history.
Daytime programming is free. Online pre-registration is encouraged to avoid lines and streamline arrival. Guests who reserve tickets online will receive complimentary access to the National Archives Museum.
The festival programming schedule is as follows:
- Stars & Stories Fest (Friday, June 5; 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. ET): Modeled after a classic July 4 neighborhood gathering, visitors will explore history and the 250th by meeting historical reenactors, enjoy Disney music, discover their family roots with Ancestry, check out digital activations, and experience activities including face painting and a patriotic selfie station. NBC4 Washington TV host Tommy McFly will emcee the event.
Program Partners: Ancestry, Building Bridges, Disney Music Group, and the Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA).
- Salute to Service (Saturday, June 6; 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. ET) – In honor of the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army and Navy and 82nd anniversary of D-Day, this tribute celebrates service members past and present. Guests will enjoy live performances by military bands, step inside a Vietnam War Army helicopter, and participate in hands-on activities that connect them to stories of service found within the National Archives. United States Navy Memorial President and CEO Vice Admiral John B. Nowell, Jr., USN (Ret) will emcee the event.
Program Partners: American Veterans Center, Blue Star Families as part of its Do Your Part Initiative, Medal of Honor Museum, North Carolina Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association, and United States Navy Memorial.
- Yappy Hour (Saturday, June 6; 9 a.m.-12 p.m. ET) – Held on the National Archives lawn, this dog-friendly event blends patriotic spirit with community fun. Featuring table activations with local and national pet organizations and activities for the whole family, Yappy Hour invites animal lovers and their patriotic furry friends to join the celebration. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is required for all dogs attending.
Presented in partnership with Mars, Incorporated.
- Taste of America (Friday, June 5; 7-11 p.m. ET): An evening event celebrating recipes and culinary traditions from all corners of the nation. The evening begins with a curated tasting experience led by celebrity and award-winning chefs from all corners of the country, followed by DJ music and specialty drinks (with and without alcohol) crafted by top bartenders nationwide. Guests may purchase tickets to one or both portions of the evening. The specialty drink portion of the event will be emceed by LP O’Brien, DC-based beverage entrepreneur and the first winner of Netflix’s Drink Masters.
Presented in partnership with the National Restaurant Association and Drink Company.
- One Nation, Many Stories Gala (Saturday, June 6; 7-11 p.m. ET): A black-tie gala featuring award-winning American documentary filmmaker Dawn Porter and history teacher and social media influencer Lauren Cella for an evening of conversation and reflection on American storytelling. The evening experience will include an opportunity to see the original Declaration of Independence and enjoy a patriotic dining experience in front of the National Archives building.
To reserve tickets for the free daytime programming and to purchase tickets for select evening benefit events, visit https://bit.ly/FoundationFestival.
For media inquiries, please contact Mattie Gainer, Marketing and Communications Director, at mattie.gainer@nationalarcstg.wpenginepowered.com.
The Spirit of Independence Festival is generously sponsored by The Boeing Company, Comcast Corporation, Microsoft, P&G, and TikTok. Additional support provided by Ancestry, John Hancock, Mars, Incorporated, National Restaurant Association, and Recording Industry Association of America® (RIAA).
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About the National Archives Foundation
The National Archives Foundation is an independent nonprofit foundation that increases public awareness of the National Archives, inspires a deeper appreciation of our country’s heritage, and encourages citizen engagement in our democracy. The Foundation generates financial and creative support for National Archives exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives, introducing America’s records to people around the U.S. and the world. Learn more at www.nationalarcstg.wpenginepowered.com.
