Which event did the United States Bicentennial celebrate in 1976, before America250?

The United States Bicentennial celebrated the 200th anniversary of American independence in 1976. Its central date was July 4, marking two centuries since the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776.

The bicentennial was a nationwide observance involving exhibitions, public events, historic-site programs, and specially designed memorabilia. It was the previous major national anniversary before the 2026 semiquincentennial.

America250 follows the bicentennial exactly 50 years later. The two celebrations share the July 4 connection, but their anniversary numbers differ: bicentennial means 200 years, while semiquincentennial means 250 years.