OAK RIDGE, TN - The American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) invites the community to gather on the evening of Wednesday, July 8, for a landmark celebration of America's 250th anniversary. As part of a nationwide initiative, AMSE will host a synchronized reading of the Declaration of Independence — one of hundreds of readings happening simultaneously across the United States at 6:00 p.m.

Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. on the museum grounds and will include hands-on, family-friendly activities, a performance of patriotic favorites by the Oak Ridge Chorus, a living history appearance by a John Sevier interpreter, and free ice cream while supplies last. A fire truck proudly displaying the American flag will be on display throughout the evening.

At 6:00 p.m., Oak Ridge community leaders will join their fellow Americans coast to coast in reading aloud the document that declared a nation — the Declaration of Independence. This synchronized reading is part of the America250 commemoration, a years-long national celebration marking the semiquincentennial of the United States.

The event is free and everyone is invited. The American Museum of Science and Energy is located at 115 Main St E., Oak Ridge, Tennessee.