250 YEARS
AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE SINCE 1776
The 250th anniversary of the United States-- known as the Semiquincentennial or "America 250"--marks a monumental milestone on July 4, 2026, exactly 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This once-in-a-generation celebration, led by the nonpartisan U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and supported by nationwide initiatives, invites all Americans to reflect on the nation's founding principles of liberty, self-government, and unity while honoring the diverse contributions that have shaped the country over two and a half centuries.
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The nationwide celebration naturally centers on honoring George Washington, the indispensable Founding Father whose leadership forged the nation. From his command of the Continental Army through the grueling Revolutionary War to his presiding over the Constitutional Convention and serving as the First President who voluntarily stepped down to preserve democratic ideals, Washington's legacy of selfless service, moral integrity, and restraint of power embodies the very principles the America 250 anniversary commemorates.
Events across the country, including revitalized exhibits at Mount Vernon unveiling new displays on George Washington's life, special programs in Washington, D.C, and nationwide reflections on the founding era, invite Americans to reconnect with these foundational virtues amid parade, fireworks, and community initiatives.
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On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
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America250 is striving for “350 by 250” — our goal to engage all 350 million Americans by our nation’s 250th anniversary. Join us in celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial by sharing your story through Our American Story or America’s Invitation, inviting students to describe what America means to them as part of America’s Field Trip, or helping make 2026 a record setting year for volunteer service through America Gives.
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America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.