July 4th at Monticello

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Ken Burns (photo: Stephanie Berger)

Celebrate July 4th at Monticello, the home of the author of the Declaration of Independence! For over 60 years on July 4th, Monticello's West Lawn has transformed into an outdoor courtroom, where dozens of new citizens take the Oath of Citizenship to become Americans.

Join us as we mark the 249th anniversary of the country with award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns as our keynote speaker. This one-of-a-kind event is free and features a morning filled with family activities, patriotic music, festive food options, and community partners showcasing their work.

Related Event

• Ken Burns Premieres: The American Revolution
  Join Monticello off the mountain on July 3rd for a special program with award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns as he previews his new series, The American Revolution, launching Fall 2025 on PBS

Event Highlights

• Event entry is free, but reservations required
• Naturalization Ceremony begins at 9:00 a.m.
• Shuttles to the historic mountaintop will run from Piedmont Virginia Community College starting at 7:30 a.m.
• Before and after the ceremony, guests can enjoy music, concessions, children's activities, wine tastings, and the Community Partner Tent

Couldn't attend the ceremony in person? 

Watch the livestream recording on our Facebook page or YouTube channel.

See previous July 4th ceremonies on our YouTube channel »

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation wishes to express its genuine appreciation to:

The Scripps Independence Day Endowment for its generous support of our
Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony