The 1876 Centennial Exposition was held in Philadelphia to celebrate 100 years of American independence.
Officially called the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures, and Products of the Soil and Mine, the exposition ran from May 10 to November 10, 1876. Its grounds occupied part of Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia was a fitting location because the city hosted the Second Continental Congress and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The exposition showcased American industry and technology alongside exhibits from countries around the world. More than 10 million visits were recorded during the event.
The exposition is sometimes confused with the 1976 United States Bicentennial, which marked 200 years, or the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition, also held in Philadelphia. The 1876 event was the first official world's fair in the United States and helped establish a tradition of major anniversary celebrations leading toward America's 250th year.