What date marks the United States' 250th anniversary, known as America250?

The United States' 250th anniversary, known as America250, falls on July 4, 2026.

The date commemorates July 4, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. The anniversary is therefore tied to the declaration of independence rather than to the later signing of the Constitution, the Revolutionary War's final peace treaty, or George Washington's inauguration.

The celebration is formally called the United States Semiquincentennial. “Semiquincentennial” means a 250th anniversary, while “America250” is the public-facing name used for the nationwide commemoration. Congress created the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to coordinate observances.

A common mix-up is the date July 2, 1776. Congress voted for independence on July 2, but it adopted the Declaration's final wording on July 4. That distinction explains why Independence Day and the 250th anniversary are observed on July 4.