Freedom 250

Celebrating 250 Years of American History

On July 4, 2026, America will celebrate one of the most important milestones in our nation’s history — 250 years of American independence. This historic anniversary marks two and a half centuries since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the greatest nation in history.

Under the President’s leadership, a nationwide effort is underway to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The Salute to America 250 Task Force is leading a full year of celebrations — beginning Memorial Day 2025 and continuing through the end of 2026 — bringing communities across the country together to mark this historic milestone.

Here in Northeast Florida, this anniversary creates opportunities for our families, veterans, small businesses, schools, and faith communities to take part in honoring the freedoms that define us. Through a new partnership called Freedom 250, Americans from all walks of life are coming together to celebrate our history, our shared values, and the bright future ahead.

Freedom 250 is about renewing pride in our country, teaching the next generation about America’s founding, exploring the beauty of our nation, and recommitting ourselves to the principles that have guided us for 250 years — as One Nation Under God.

Countdown to America’s 250th Anniversary

Learn more about the year of events 

Learn more about the Story of America 

America’s semi-quincentennial anniversary is more than a celebration—it is an opportunity to honor our past, celebrate our freedoms, and boldly build the next chapter of the American story.

As part of the America 250 commemoration, Washington, D.C. will host a series of special events, exhibitions, and historic reopenings across the Smithsonian Institution and the National Mall.

The Road to Liberty: Freedom Truck Tour

The Freedom 250 Truck Tour is traveling across the country, bringing the celebration directly to communities and highlighting the people, places, and stories that define our nation.

Upcoming Stop: Green Cove Springs, Florida | June 16–17, 2026

The tour will stop at the Clay County Courthouse (477 Houston Street), where residents and visitors can join in a two-day celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This stop will serve as a central gathering point for the community, with additional details on programming and activities to be announced. More HERE.

Key Washington, D.C. Events & Locations

Visitors will have a unique opportunity to experience some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks and cultural institutions in new and meaningful ways:

• The Smithsonian Castle will temporarily reopen from May 22 through September 7, 2026, offering a rare look at its renovations. During this time, the special exhibition “American Aspirations,” curated by Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, will feature more than 25 objects that reflect the nation’s ongoing pursuit of its founding ideals. A commissioned illumination will also transform the Castle’s exterior throughout the summer.
• The historic Arts and Industries Building will open its doors from June 16 through September 7, 2026, featuring “Voices and Votes: Exploring Democracy in America,” an exhibition examining the history and future of American democracy. The site will also host a vibrant Marketplace, with family-friendly programming and evening events led by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
• The Smithsonian will mark the start of summer with an Expanded Solstice Weekend from June 19–21, 2026, featuring extended hours, special programming, and performances across multiple museums.
• The beloved National Mall Carousel, originally built in 1947, is scheduled to reopen in April 2026 following an extensive two-year restoration.

Upcoming and Ongoing Exhibitions

Throughout 2026, Smithsonian museums will feature exhibitions and programming that highlight the American experience:

• National Museum of American History: “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness: 250 Objects from the Collection” and “Conservation of the Gunboat Philadelphia.”
• National Air and Space Museum: Celebrating its 50th anniversary with a major reopening in 2026, alongside the ongoing “America by Air” exhibition.
• National Museum of Natural History: “From These Lands: Sharing Our Nation’s Natural and Cultural Heritage” and “Bison: Standing Strong.”
• National Postal Museum: “American Stories, American Stamps.”
• Smithsonian National Zoo: “American Trails.”
• Renwick Gallery: “State Fairs: Growing American Craft,” on view through September 7, 2026.