The United States will officially mark its 250th anniversary in the America250 celebration on July 4, 2026.
That date is the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Independence Day has been observed annually on July 4 since the early national period, even though Congress approved the Lee Resolution for independence on July 2.
The distinction between July 2 and July 4 is a common historical mix-up. July 2 marked approval of the independence resolution, while July 4 marked adoption of the Declaration’s final text. America250’s principal anniversary date follows the latter event.
Celebrations may begin before July 4 and continue afterward, but the semiquincentennial date itself is July 4, 2026. The year 2026 is exactly 250 years after 1776.