America250 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
The Declaration was adopted by the Second Continental Congress in 1776, announcing that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as independent states. July 4 became the date associated with the anniversary because Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration on that day, even though the independence vote occurred earlier.
The anniversary is commonly called the United States Semiquincentennial, a term for a 250th anniversary. America250 is the national commemorative initiative created to engage the public in events, education, service, and historical reflection around the milestone.
A common mix-up is to identify July 2 as Independence Day. Congress voted for independence on July 2, 1776, but July 4 is the date printed on the adopted Declaration and the date used for the national holiday. The 2026 observance therefore marks 250 years from 1776 to 2026.