America 250
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, Washington, D.C., will host historic events and patriotic celebrations honoring the freedoms and values that make our nation the greatest on Earth. From ceremonies on the National Mall to family-friendly exhibits and festivals, America 250 offers Kansans a special opportunity to experience our nation’s history and celebrate the enduring spirit of the United States.
MAJOR EVENTS & CELEBRATIONS
Salute to America: The Nation’s 250th Birthday Fireworks Celebration | July 4, 2026 Large-scale fireworks celebration over the National Mall commemorating America’s 250th birthday.
Fourth of July Celebration at the National Mall | July 4, 2026
Concert salute on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, followed by a nationally televised fireworks display.
Memorial Day National Observance & Parade | May 25, 2026
Annual Constitution Avenue parade honoring veterans, military families, and generations of American service.
Rededicate 250: National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving| May 17, 2026 National faith-based celebration recognizing America’s founding and shared values.
Flags Across America Culminating Event | July 4, 2026
Nationwide patriotic initiative concluding in Washington during Independence Day celebrations.
FEATURED FESTIVALS & PUBLIC EVENTS
Great American State Fair | June 25 – July 11, 2026
Large-scale showcase featuring all 50 states and U.S. territories through food, music, art, agriculture, carnival attractions, and cultural exhibits celebrating American unity and heritage.
National Gallery Block Party | June 6 – 7, 2026
Public celebration featuring American art, live music, food, film screenings, and family activities.
Patriot Games | Fall 2026
National patriotic competition and celebration event planned as part of the America 250 initiative.
SMITHSONIAN AMERICA 250 EXHIBITIONS & PROGRAMS
National Museum of American History
In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness — Opens May 14
The Gunboat Philadelphia Preservation Project — Open Now
Beyond the Exhibition: 250 Years of Messaging — July 23
National Museum of Natural History
Bronze Bison — Opens March 19
Bison: Standing Strong — Opens May 7
National Portrait Gallery
American Winners: Athletes and Entertainers Who Shaped the Nation — Open Now
The Spirit of Invention: Patent Office and Patentees — Opens June 2
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Featured Exhibitions
The Declaration’s Promise — Opens July 3
The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution — Through July 4
Alive in Many Hands: 50 Years of the American Folklife Center — Opens September 18
Featured Programs
Family Day: Independence Day — July 4
America’s Field Trip — July 4
National Book Festival — August 22
U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra Concert — October 2
HISTORIC SITES & SPECIAL EXHIBITS
National Archives Museum – “The American Story” Exhibit
Features historic artifacts including William Stone’s 1823 Declaration of Independence, George Washington’s copy of the Constitution, and presidential memorabilia.
United States Botanic Garden – “America’s State Flowers” | April 10 – October 12, 2026 Exhibit showcasing all 50 state flowers alongside artistic and cultural installations.
George Washington’s estate will host Revolutionary War reenactments, workshops, and commemorative programming throughout the anniversary year.
Lincoln Memorial Undercroft | Opening July 2026
New immersive museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial exploring the memorial’s history and role in the Civil Rights Movement.
