The United States will mark its 250th anniversary, known as the America250 celebration, on July 4, 2026.
The date commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Independence Day is observed annually on July 4 because Congress approved the final declaration on that date.
America250 is the common branding for the nationwide commemoration. The formal historical term is the United States Semiquincentennial, referring to a 250-year anniversary. The celebration follows the United States Bicentennial in 1976, which marked 200 years since independence.
A common mix-up concerns July 2, 1776. Congress voted for independence through the Lee Resolution on July 2, but adopted the Declaration of Independence two days later. Thus, July 4—not July 2—is the anniversary date used for the national celebration.