The United States’ previous major national independence anniversary before America250’s 2026 semiquincentennial was the Bicentennial.
The United States Bicentennial culminated on July 4, 1976, marking 200 years since the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. It was a nationwide series of celebrations and historical observances held during the 1970s.
The term “bicentennial” means a 200th anniversary. The 2026 America250 commemoration advances the anniversary count by fifty years, from 200 to 250.
The Bicentennial had its own federal planning bodies, including the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission and the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration. Its events included ceremonies, exhibitions, local celebrations, and special commemorative projects across the country, making it the closest historical precedent for the nationwide scope of America250.