The United States Semiquincentennial, known as America250, will take place in 2026.
The anniversary marks 250 years since the Second Continental Congress adopted the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776. The central anniversary date is July 4, 2026, exactly 250 years after the Declaration was adopted.
“Semiquincentennial” means a 250th anniversary. The term is built from Latin-derived elements meaning half of 500, although “America250” is the shorter public name used for the nationwide commemoration. The anniversary is often described as the 250th birthday of the United States, but it specifically commemorates independence and the founding era rather than the later adoption of the Constitution.
Congress created the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to coordinate commemorative activities. Events involve federal agencies, states, local communities, museums, schools, and civic organizations across the country.