Which organization was created by Congress in 2016 to coordinate the United States' 250th-anniversary observance?

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission was created by Congress in 2016 to coordinate the United States’ 250th-anniversary observance.

The commission is a bipartisan federal organization associated with the America250 initiative. Its work includes encouraging commemorative programs, supporting educational projects, and helping connect national celebrations with activities organized by states, communities, cultural institutions, and historical sites.

The commission’s creation in 2016 came 10 years before the anniversary itself. This allowed planners to prepare long-term programs for a milestone expected to involve museums, historic landmarks, public events, and civic education across the country.

The commission should not be confused with the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission, which operated for the 1976 celebrations. The 1976 event marked 200 years, while the Semiquincentennial Commission is responsible for the 250-year observance in 2026. America250 is the more recognizable public name for the current effort.