June 23, 2026

Celebrate Independence Day with Democrats Abroad UK!


While Trump is busy hosting UFC fights on the White House lawn, we're celebrating America's 250th birthday the way it should be: with community, democracy, and civic engagement.

Join us as we come together to honor the ideals that have shaped our nation for 250 years. America's story belongs to all of us. Let's celebrate it together.

LONDON: June 30th 6:00pm Get Out The Vote Team Pub Night

Click to RSVP for London GOTV Pub Night 

Can't wait until July 4th and want to kick off the celebrations early? Join the DAUK Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Team on June 30th for their pub night in Waterloo.

What better way to honor the USA’s 250th and the birth of our democracy than to make sure you are #readytovote2026 and help others to vote to ensure our democracy continues for another 250 years! Come along, raise a glass, build community and apply for your ballot if you haven’t already! 

LONDON: July 3rd 6:30pm onwards Boardwalk before the 4th

Click here to RSVP for Boardwalk Before the 4th Event

Expect arcade games, classic tunes, and a laid-back evening with fellow Americans. Attendance is free. Pay-as-you-go arcade cards, along with food and drinks, will be available for purchase at the bar. We'll also have a reserved area for those who prefer to mingle- or take a victory lap after conquering the arcade.

🌊 Theme: Think Jersey Shore / Boardwalk!
Dress in your best beachwear or show your spirit in red, white, and blue.

This event is co-hosted by the Youth Caucus, LGBTQ+ Caucus, and Women's Caucus but is open to all members. Please be aware that the venue may be loud. Arcade games, music, flashing lights, and a lively party atmosphere should be expected.

LONDON: July 4th Walking Tour | Morning Session 11:00-1:30pm (SOLD OUT) | Afternoon Session 1:45-4:15pm (*NEWLY ADDED)

The morning tour sold out, so we are pleased to offer an additional afternoon tour. Please note that tickets are valid only for the tour time as purchased. Tickets purchased for the morning tour cannot be used for the afternoon tour, and vice versa.

This Independence Day, step into the fascinating and often overlooked story of Americans in London with a unique small-group guided walking tour through Chelsea led by fellow Democrats Abroad UK member and professional Golden-Key Badge guide Lisa of Eclectic Tours.

Commissioned last year for the 250th of the Battle of Lexington & Concord by the National Army Museum in Chelsea, this walk starts with the origins of the Revolutionary War and ends with examining the complex legacy that lingers with all Americans who have made their lives in Britain. Along the way, we meet prominent writers and artists, and soldiers.

This is a ticketed events, tickets are £20 ticket. Spaces are limited. 

EDINBURGH: July 4th, 12:00pm-4:00pm: Garden Party

We are thrilled to invite you to attend our annual Democrats Abroad Scotland Fourth of July Celebration - to be held on Saturday, 4 July from 12-4pm. We look forward to seeing you for a day of food, drink, community, and (hopefully) some Scottish sun. 

Tickets are on sale now! With your ticket, you will have access to a buffet catered by Cafe Domenico, a choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks and games/activities throughout the day. 

OXFORD: July 4th, 2:00pm: Independence Day Picnic

You're invited to the Oxford Chapter's Annual Independence Day Picnic! Oxford City Farm has loads of friendly animals for all to enjoy, plus a sheltered event space and picnic ground. BYOB, snacks, and any other treats that scream Independence Day to you. 

All are welcome. Bring your families, friends and any fellow Americans.

LIVERPOOL AREA: July 4th, 2:00pm: Picnic & Crosby Beach Walk

Click here to RSVP for Crosby Beach Walk & Picnic

Join us for a relaxed afternoon by the sea with a bring-your-own picnic and a stroll along the beach. We'll meet at 2:00 pm at Crosby Leisure Centre and walk together to Crosby Beach, home to Anthony Gormley's iconic Another Place installation, where the famous Iron Men stand looking out across the shoreline. 

Whether you're a long-standing member of Democrats Abroad or attending your first event, it's a great opportunity to enjoy good company, celebrate Independence Day, and spend time with fellow Americans and friends in the Liverpool area.

NOTTINGHAM: July 5th Independence Day Potluck Picnic 12:00pm

RSVP for Nottingham Potluck Picnic

Join fellow Americans, friends, and supporters for an afternoon of community and conversation.

Feel free to bring your favorite dish, snack, dessert, or drink to share, and enjoy a relaxed gathering with great company. Whether you're a longtime member or joining us for the first time, everyone is welcome.

LEWES, EAST SUSSEX: July 5th American crisis - Fight back with Tom Paine and his 21st century friends in Lewes!

Why join us in Lewes? Did you know, the legendary Thomas Paine lived in Lewes! His revolutionary pamphlet "Common Sense", published in January 1776, transformed scattered sporadic acts of rebellion into a movement for independence.Join us as we celebrate democracy, civic action, and the enduring power of people raising their voices together.

Lewes Town Hall - Main Event  | 1:00–5:00 PM

13:00-14:00pm - Town Hall open. Come buy lunch and drinks; register to vote and request your 2026 ballot with DAUK Get Out the Vote (GOTV) team, meet DAUK caucus leaders, and socialise with fellow Democrats in the UK.  

2:00-5:00pm - Expect an afternoon packed with inspiration, entertainment, activism, and community featuring:

  • Democrats Abroad UK Chair Cherryl Martin
  • Sarah Churchwell, Chair of Public Understanding of the Humanities and Professor of American Literature at University College London - Talk: "What would Paine say?"
  • Paul and Carol Kelly, renowned performers of The Great American Songbook
  • Erich McElroy, American stand up comedian and political satirist
  • Voter registration assistance from our Get Out To Vote (GOTV) Team
  • Meet with Democrats Abroad UK Caucuses & Committees
  • The Bobbleheads
  • Readings and dramatisations of Tom Paine and his ever-relevant Common Sense

Make a Full Day of It!

Want to level up your Lewes adventure by joining our Host Committee? We’ve created a series of exclusive small-group add-on experiences you can bundle with your main event ticket at checkout. These special experiences have very limited capacity and are expected to sell quickly - so grab your spot while you can! They include a Guided Walking Tour of Lewes (11:15am-12:00pm), a Tour of Thomas Paine's House (12:00pm-12:45pm), and a Revolutionary Soirée at the White Hart Inn where Thomas Paine debated (5:00-7:00pm).