For America250, what date marked the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence?

For America250, the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence fell on July 4, 2026.

The date follows the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. The anniversary is commonly called the United States Semiquincentennial, although America250 is the principal public-facing name used for the national commemoration.

The date can cause confusion because Congress approved the Lee Resolution declaring independence on July 2, 1776. July 4 is the date associated with the Declaration’s adoption and the national Independence Day holiday. Most delegates signed the engrossed document later, beginning on August 2.

America250 connects the 2026 milestone with events, educational projects, service programs, and historical storytelling across the United States. The celebration marks 250 years since the founding-era declaration rather than 250 years since the Constitution, which was drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788.