Philadelphia’s 1876 exposition commemorating the centennial of American independence was called the Centennial Exposition.
Held from May 10 to November 10, 1876, the exposition marked 100 years since the Declaration of Independence. Its official name was the International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures and Products of the Soil and Mine, but “Centennial Exposition” became the standard short name.
The fair occupied more than 450 acres in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. It presented industrial, agricultural, artistic, and technological displays from the United States and other countries. The exposition helped turn the anniversary into a large international event rather than only a local ceremony.
Philadelphia later hosted the Sesquicentennial Exposition in 1926, marking 150 years, while the nationwide Bicentennial observance took place in 1976. These earlier commemorations provide historical precedents for America250 in 2026.