On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate a historic milestone — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, the Declaration announced the 13 American colonies’ independence from Great Britain and articulated the founding ideals of liberty, self-government, and equality that continue to influence the nation today.
Across the country, schools, communities, museums, libraries, and civic organizations are marking the occasion through educational activities, service projects, historical commemorations, and opportunities for civic engagement.
Known as America 250, the nationwide observance invites Americans of all ages to explore the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the nation’s history while reflecting on the principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence. It is also an opportunity to recognize the contributions of generations of Americans and encourage the next generation to participate in their communities and help shape the country’s future.
Rather than focusing on a single day of celebration, America 250 encourages yearlong participation through learning, volunteerism, storytelling, and community connections, providing meaningful ways for people to celebrate the nation’s past while looking ahead to its next chapter.
How will you get involved?
Ideas include:
- Wearing red, white, and blue and visiting a local parade, block party, or fireworks celebration.
- Visiting local museums to learn more about the history of Kern County and California.
- Exploring nearby national parks such as Sequoia, Kings Canyon, or Yosemite and discovering the landscapes that have helped shape the American story.
- Participating in a “250 Acts of Service” challenge by setting goals such as 250 acts of kindness
- 250 random acts of kindness
- 250 letters written to veterans
- 250 flowers planted
- 250 books donated
- 250 volunteer hours completed
- 250 American flags placed in partnership with local organization
Did you Know??
A Rare Milestone
The nation’s 250th birthday is known as a semiquincentennial — a celebration that occurs once every 250 years.
From 13 States to 50
When the Declaration of Independence was signed, the United States consisted of 13 colonies. Today, the nation includes 50 states and more than 340 million residents.
The Last Major Anniversary
America last celebrated a major milestone in 1976 during the nation’s Bicentennial, which marked 200 years of independence and included community celebrations, educational activities, and commemorative events across the country.
Fun Fact for Students
If you were born in 2015, you will be about 61 years old when America celebrates its 300th birthday in 2076.
It Was Written by Hand
The Declaration of Independence wasn’t typed or printed on a computer. The final document was handwritten on parchment using ink and quill pens.
The Bald Eagle
The bald eagle has appeared on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782 and remains one of the country’s best-known national symbols.
By Robert Meszaros
Rob Meszaros is Director of Communications for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, where he has served since 2012. In his role, Meszaros oversees media relations, internal and external communication strategies, publications, Marcom, branding, and multi-media content creation. Before joining KCSOS, Meszaros was the PIO for CSU Bakersfield and earlier worked for seven years at The Bakersfield Californian.