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The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in July 2016 to plan & orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Congress finds that July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, as marked by the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and the historic events preceding that anniversary— are of major significance in the development of the national heritage of the United States of individual liberty, representative government, and the attainment of equal and inalienable rights; and have had a profound influence throughout the world.
The purpose of this Act is to establish a Commission to provide for the observance and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and related events
through local, State, national, and international activities planned, encouraged, developed, and coordinated by a national commission representative of appropriate public and private authorities and organizations.
The Commission shall terminate on December 31, 2027. congress.gov/114/plaws/publ196/PLAW-114publ196.pdf
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Appointed by the House and Senate leadership of both parties, the bipartisan Commission is composed of 16 private citizens, 4 U.S. Representatives and 4 Senators, as well as 12 Ex Officio members from all three branches of the federal government and its independent agencies.
Leading up to the largest commemoration and celebration in American history, America250 is planning a multi-year, national effort to engage, educate, and unite Americans from sea to shining sea through the following tentpole programs. The initiatives of the Commission include:
Our American Story
America250’s nationwide initiative to preserve the voices of everyday Americans has officially launched! We have embarked on a historic journey to collect the largest audiovisual archive of American stories ever created. Learn More
America250 Tentpole Programs
- America's Field Trip - A multi-year contest that invites students in grades 3-12 to submit artwork, videos, and essays, answering the question, “What does America mean to you?” for the chance to earn unique experiences at iconic American historical and cultural sites.
- America Gives - An effort focused on reinvigorating a year-round culture of service beyond 2026 — grounded in three key pillars: charitable giving, volunteering, and public service — which includes military service.
- America's Invitation - Your story is America’s story and Americans from all walks of life are sharing theirs in response to America’s Invitation. Your reflections on our past, present, and future are helping us create the most inclusive commemoration in history.
- America250 Playbook - The America250 Playbook: Our Journey to 2026 is a comprehensive guide detailing the officially approved national programming that will shape the United States’ Semiquincentennial. The Playbook outlines the bipartisan effort to engage all Americans in celebrating the country’s past, present and future. It reflects input from federal agencies, state and territory commissions, sponsors, partners, and community organizations across all 50 states, five territories and the District of Columbia.
As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this Playbook provides a clear view into the moments, movements and collaborations that will define this once-in-a-generation commemoration. Download the Playbook
Coming Soon
America’s Performance, America Waves, America Innovates, Time Capsule, July 4th 2026 Activations
America’s Field Trip Contest: Grades 3-12 | San Fernando Valley News Portal
More News from Los Angeles
- America’s Field Trip Contest: Grades 3-12 America’s Field Trip Contest asks "What does America mean to you? You may answer this question with original artwork or a written response. Submit before Monday, March 30, 2026
- Three Nativity Events Before Christmas Las Posadas has been a part of Olvera Street since 1930. Reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem with traditional songs, colorful costumes, and vibrant music.
