City of Helena to Host ‘Sharing the Spirit of America’ 250th Birthday

Published on June 16, 2026

HELENA, Mont. – The City of Helena will join communities across the nation on Wednesday, July 8, in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence with a special "Sharing the Spirit of America" community celebration at the Montana State Capitol.

The event will kick off at 3:30 p.m. at the Flag Plaza, featuring live music and food trucks, followed by a coordinated nationwide community reading of the Declaration of Independence at 4 p.m.

The celebration commemorates a pivotal moment in American history. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. Four days later, on July 8, residents gathered in the State House Yard for the document's first public reading, delivered by Col. John Nixon.

Now, 250 years later, Americans in all 50 states and 16 U.S. territories will once again gather to read the Declaration together, honoring the ideals of liberty, equality and self-government that continue to shape the nation.

"The Declaration of Independence remains one of the most enduring expressions of American ideals," Mayor Dean said. "This event offers our community an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history and celebrate the principles that unite us."

The event is presented in partnership with the City of Helena, Lewis & Clark County, the Helena Tourism Business Improvement District, the Helena Chamber of Commerce, the Helena Downtown Business Improvement District, the Daughters and Sons of the American Revolution and the Montana America 250 Committee.

The public is encouraged to attend and take part in this historic commemoration.

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