Which federal commission was created in 2016 to plan the United States’ America250 commemoration?

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission was created in 2016 to plan the national America250 commemoration.

Congress established the commission as a bipartisan body responsible for coordinating anniversary activities with federal agencies, states, local governments, schools, museums, and civic organizations. Its work is intended to connect the 2026 anniversary with the history and continuing development of the United States.

The commission is closely associated with America250, the public name used for the commemoration and its supporting organization. This can cause a common mix-up: America250 is the campaign and brand, while the United States Semiquincentennial Commission is the congressional body created to lead national planning.

The commission was established during the 240th anniversary year, giving planners a decade to prepare for July 4, 2026. Earlier milestone celebrations had different structures, including the federal planning associated with the 1876 Centennial Exposition and the nationwide programs of the 1976 bicentennial.