What date marks the United States semiquincentennial celebrated by America250?

The United States semiquincentennial celebrated by America250 is marked on July 4, 2026.

The date commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration in 1776, and July 4 became the anniversary date traditionally associated with American independence.

The anniversary is also called the United States Semiquincentennial. “Semiquincentennial” combines roots meaning half of 500, or 250. Other terms, including sestercentennial and quarter millennium, have appeared, but America250 is the principal public branding for the commemoration.

The date can be confused with July 2, 1776, when Congress passed the Lee Resolution declaring the colonies independent. July 4 is the date printed on the Declaration and the date used for Independence Day observances. The previous major national milestone was the 1976 bicentennial, marking 200 years.