On what date did the United States’ 250th anniversary, America250, take place?

The United States’ 250th anniversary, America250, took place on July 4, 2026.

The date marks 250 years since the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Although the Lee Resolution formally announced independence on July 2, 1776, July 4 became the anniversary date because that is when Congress adopted the final Declaration text and the date printed on the document.

America250 celebrations extended beyond a single day, with events beginning before July 2026 and continuing through anniversary programs across the country. The commemoration is also called the United States Semiquincentennial, a term describing a 250th anniversary.

The 2026 anniversary followed the 1976 United States Bicentennial, which marked 200 years. The next major 250-year milestone connected with the United States will be the 2276 opening of a time capsule prepared for the semiquincentennial.