Parades, marching bands, burgers on the grill, and dazzling fireworks in the evening skies. Sounds like Independence Day, right? Don’t forget the potato salad and watermelon!
We may celebrate the event every year, but July 4 of 2026 will herald the 250th anniversary of our nation’s Declaration of Independence, a monumental milestone.
A Celebration in Every State
It’s America’s birthday, and plans are underway throughout the country to mark the occasion.
America250.org is the official ‘party planner’ with a nationwide initiative to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. Here are a few of their current projects—with more to come!
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America’s Field Trip engages schoolchildren through a multi-year art and essay contest, exploring the meaning of America.
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Our American Story is an oral history project inviting all of us to document our own understanding of the United States.
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America Gives challenges businesses, non-profits, schools, youth groups, faith-based networks, and organizations of all kinds to commit to increasing their level of volunteering and impact starting on Jan 1, 2026.
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State level America250 groups are working throughout the nation to plan events and encourage counties and local communities to find ways to celebrate. Links on their website will take you to state and local partners.
How Are We Involved?
George Washington Speaks has seen a marked rise in requests for personal visits as well as a strong growth in interest on social media. We are eager to participate in the new events being planned at the state and regional level. In addition to the classroom and civic group presentations we often make, we are already planning for and scheduling fairs, parades, history-related public events, and sporting events. With years of experience in sharing America’s 18th century history, we look forward to collaborating with other groups to celebrate next year’s benchmark birthday.
How You Can Get Involved
Are you making plans to celebrate in a big way?
America250 is designed to be an inclusive celebration, inviting all Americans to take part in honoring the nation’s history. Here’s how you can get involved:
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Attend local events – Many cities and states are organizing their own America250 celebrations.
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Explore exhibitions – Visit museums and galleries featuring special installations related to the anniversary.
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Share your story – America250 encourages individuals to reflect on their personal connections to American history and contribute to the national conversation.
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Volunteer or donate – Support initiatives that promote historical education and community engagement.
Looking Ahead
As America approaches its 250th birthday, this celebration offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey, acknowledge its challenges, and envision a future built on unity, innovation, and progress. Whether through historical exhibitions, patriotic tributes, or community-driven events, America250 is set to be a defining moment in the country’s history.
For more details on upcoming events and ways to participate, visit the official America250 website.
Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future—together.
