America 250, the official U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission initiative, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
Established by Congress in 2016, it's a bipartisan effort led by America250.org, Inc., with honorary co-chairs including former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and former First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama. The theme emphasizes reflecting on the nation's past, honoring all Americans' contributions, and envisioning the future. The goal is "350 by 250", engaging all 350 million Americans through storytelling, education, service, and innovation.
Festivities kicked off in 2025 (Memorial Day) and will span 2026, with over 50 national, regional, and local events across all 56 states, territories, and jurisdictions.
A full calendar is available at [america250.org/calendar](https://america250.org/calendar). The White House's Salute to America 250 Task Force coordinates federal efforts, including a video series "The Story of America" with Hillsdale College.
The table at right shows key national events in February and March 2026
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.