The Village of Hastings-on-Hudson announced on May 15 a series of events to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution. The celebration, spanning throughout 2026, will feature educational programs, historical reenactments, and community gatherings.
The milestone commemorates a pivotal moment in American history and aims to engage residents with both the legacy and contemporary relevance of the nation’s founding document. Organizers encourage participation from all age groups in activities that explore historical themes as well as modern implications.
On Thursday, May 28 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., there will be a “Declaration Deep Dive” at the Hastings-on-Hudson Public Library Orr Room. This event is described as a textual analysis session focused on deconstructing the Declaration’s text. It will be facilitated by Greg Smith, Social Studies Department Chairperson at Hastings High School, along with Fred Charles, Chair of Revolutionary Hastings. The evening is designed for teens and adults and is free to attend.
A larger celebration titled “The Declaration of Independence LIVE!” is scheduled for Friday, June 5 from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. on the grounds surrounding Village Hall and Public Library at 7 Maple Avenue. The immersive living history program promises encounters with figures such as Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, General George Washington, patriots, loyalists, soldiers and civilians. Attendees can expect period music, crafts and games along with exhibits like “The Promise of Liberty” in Village Hall Gallery. The event culminates in a theatrical reading directed by Rachel Wineburg featuring Melanie Hoopes, Ramsey Faragallah, Lee Aaron Rosen and April Armstrong.
On Sunday, June 7 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Char Weigel will speak about life during wartime at the annual board meeting hosted by Hastings Historical Society in the library’s Orr Room. Weigel’s lecture centers on two local families—the Odells and Dyckmans—and their experiences within Westchester County’s so-called “Neutral Ground” during revolutionary times.
More information about these events can be found at http://hohny.gov.
