For America's 250th anniversary (America250), the United States will mark its semiquincentennial in 2026.
The celebration is tied to the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The term “semiquincentennial” combines roots meaning half of 500, or 250 years. The anniversary is also called the United States Semiquincentennial.
Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to coordinate nationwide commemoration. Its America250 program connects historic sites, museums, schools, communities, and civic organizations with events leading up to July 4, 2026.
The 250th anniversary follows the American Bicentennial of 1976, which marked 200 years of independence. It is distinct from the 2026 anniversaries of other events, such as the founding of individual settlements or institutions. America250 specifically centers on the national independence milestone and related stories from the country’s history.