The America250 commission was established in 2016.
Congress created the nonpartisan United States Semiquincentennial Commission to plan and coordinate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The commission’s public identity is America250, a name used for educational programs, partnerships, commemorations, and nationwide initiatives.
Establishing the commission a decade before the anniversary allowed organizers to develop projects well in advance of July 4, 2026. Its work follows earlier federal anniversary structures, including the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission and the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration that coordinated the 1976 observance.
The commission’s anniversary planning focuses on the founding era, American history, civic participation, and events across all states and territories. The commission’s creation in 2016 should not be confused with the beginning of public festivities, which occurred later.