City of Newburyport

History & Culture

Newburyport 250: Declaration Day in Market Square

Cultural Affairs

Historic civic ceremony in a New England public square

Commemoration

On Sunday, July 19, 2026, partner institutions presented Newburyport 250 — The Die Is Cast in Market Square, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in Newburyport.

Collaborators included local museums, civic organizations, faith communities, cultural groups, and the City of Newburyport.

Program Highlights

  • Public reading and interpretive remarks in Market Square
  • Related exhibits at participating cultural venues
  • Family-friendly activities connecting maritime and civic history

The program was free and open to the public.

Continuing Exhibits

Anniversary-related displays continue at partner sites through the summer. Check each venue for hours and accessibility information.

Why It Matters

Civic commemorations help residents and visitors connect present-day Newburyport with its role in early American public life—and reinforce the City's commitment to open cultural programming.

Contact

Cultural Affairs coordination via City Hall — (978) 465-4413.