Join the Northampton County Historical & Genealogical Society (NCHGS) for four unforgettable days of programs, performances, exhibitions, dining, and community celebration honoring Easton’s extraordinary place in American history.

This is more than a series of events—it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to experience where history happened, in the very places it unfolded.

Raise a Glass to Freedom: 250 Years Later

11:45 AM | Sigal Museum
RSVP HERE

Begin the commemoration with a powerful mid-day program marking the exact moment of the 250th anniversary of Easton’s historic public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Guests will experience the premiere of a new video presentation featuring a reading of the Declaration, followed by a celebratory champagne toast and an exclusive curator-led tour of Read This: The History of Media in Northampton County exhibition.

Easton Declaration Dinner

5:00–8:00 PM | Thyme Rooftop Grille

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

In the evening, step into history at the signature Easton Declaration Dinner. Enjoy a reception with local wines and a signature cocktail, followed by a dinner and a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence. The evening concludes with remarks from civic leaders and a “Toast to 250 Years,” honoring Easton’s enduring legacy and future. This celebration is hosted in collaboration with the Greater Easton Development Partnership.

Panel with Cartoonist Jonathan Hill

12:00 PM | Sigal Museum (In-person & Virtual)

RSVP HERE

Explore how local history is being transformed into a graphic novel for middle school audiences. Join award-winning illustrator Jonathan Hill and NCHGS staff for a discussion on bringing the American Revolution in Northampton County to life through visual storytelling, supported by the A.P. Kirby, Jr. Foundation, Inc.

Members’ Opening & Book Launch: General Happiness of the People

4:00–7:00 PM | 1753 Bachmann Publick House

MEMBER RSVP HERE

NCHGS members are invited to an exclusive opening of a new immersive exhibition exploring Easton as a Revolutionary capital, supported by the A.P. Kirby, Jr. Foundation, Inc. Experience projections, soundscapes, artifacts, and guided interpretation inside the historic 1753 Bachmann Publick House, followed by a book launch and meet-and-greet with Jonathan Hill.

Bachmann Block Party

3:00–10:00 PM | 2nd Street, Downtown Easton

Kick off Heritage Day weekend with live music, local food and drinks, and summer celebration in the heart of downtown. 2nd Street closes to traffic and transforms into a lively outdoor gathering space featuring bands, a beer garden atmosphere, and the historic 1753 Bachmann Publick House as a backdrop for community celebration.

Heritage Day

10:00 AM | Downtown Easton & Centre Square

NCHGS ADMISSION INFORMATION

Celebrate Easton’s signature festival—bigger than ever in 2026. Enjoy the noon re-reading of the Declaration of Independence in Centre Square, two live music stages, colonial reenactors, living history demonstrations, craft displays, expanded food and drink offerings, and the return of the Easton Farmers’ Market for its 274th birthday celebration.

NCHGS museums and historic sites will be open 12:30 AM – 5 PM, including the Sigal Museum, Bachmann Publick House, Mixsell Illick House, Jacob Nicholas House, and Kressler Garden.

In Search of the Declaration Bus Tour

9:00 AM | SIGAL MUSEUM

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Experience In Search of the Declaration: A Historic Bus Tour of Easton, Trenton, and Philadelphia—three pivotal cities where the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read on July 8, 1776. Join two certified NCHGS guides for a full-day, behind-the-scenes journey through these historic locations, offering expert insight, engaging storytelling, and a rare opportunity to explore the places where the nation’s founding ideals were first proclaimed. This immersive experience brings history to life through context, place, and perspective, connecting Easton’s story to the broader arc of the American Revolution.

Now is the perfect time to become or renew your membership!

NCHGS is a proud co-founder of Lehigh Valley 250, a regional partnership of arts, culture, and education organizations working together to present a rich calendar of events, exhibitions, and programs commemorating our nation’s founding.

Explore the full schedule and discover upcoming opportunities at www.lehighvalley250.org.