Which U.S. city hosted the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition?

Philadelphia hosted the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition.

The exposition marked 150 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. It followed Philadelphia’s earlier role as host of the 1876 Centennial Exposition and continued the city’s association with national anniversary observances.

The 1926 event was held in South Philadelphia and included exhibition buildings, displays, and attractions intended to present American industry, commerce, culture, and technological development. Unlike the 1876 exposition, it occurred during a period when Philadelphia had grown into a major industrial and population center.

The word “sesquicentennial” means a 150th anniversary. It is different from “bicentennial,” used for 200 years, and “semiquincentennial,” used for 250 years. The 1926 exposition is therefore an important predecessor to the 2026 America250 commemoration.