Gerald Ford was the U.S. president when the United States celebrated its Bicentennial in 1976.
The Bicentennial marked the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Celebrations culminated on July 4, 1976, with ceremonies, parades, fireworks, exhibitions, and public events across the country.
Ford became president in August 1974 after Richard Nixon resigned. He was the only U.S. president never elected as either president or vice president. During the Bicentennial year, Ford attended national observances and presided over celebrations in Washington, D.C., while communities organized their own events.
The commemoration also produced special U.S. currency designs. Bicentennial versions of the quarter, half dollar, and dollar carried dual dates, 1776–1976. A major maritime event called Operation Sail brought tall ships to New York Harbor. The Bicentennial was distinct from the 2026 semiquincentennial, which marks 250 years.