What is the official historical name for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026?

The official historical name for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 is the United States Semiquincentennial.

The term combines “semi,” meaning half, with “quincentennial,” meaning a 500th anniversary. Half of 500 years is 250 years. America250 is the public-facing name used for the nationwide commemoration, while “United States Semiquincentennial” describes the anniversary itself.

The anniversary marks the 250th anniversary of the Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It follows the United States Bicentennial in 1976 and precedes the United States Tricentennial in 2076.

Several alternative terms have appeared in reference works, including “sestercentennial” and “bisesquicentennial.” However, “United States Semiquincentennial” is the standard official title used for the 2026 observance.