Declaration250

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, asserting our separation from Great Britain as a new, sovereign nation and establishing the ideals that define the United States of America. With its audacious statement that “all men are created equal,” the Declaration proclaimed that all people possess individual rights that cannot be taken away, thus radically altering the course of human history.

The Declaration is turning 250 years old on July 4, 2026. To mark this significant milestone, the National Archives has launched Declaration250, a multiyear celebration of the principles enshrined in the Declaration. Our ambitious program of events are designed to commemorate 250 years of American resilience and the pursuit of happiness.

As the home of the Declaration, we will be hosting exhibitions, special programs, themed events, civic education initiatives, and other activities, culminating with a special Independence Day celebration in 2026.

And you are invited to join us on this journey as America turns 250!

Celebratory Exhibits
Celebratory exhibits include Road to Revolution, a rotating exhibition that opened in June 2024, highlighting National Archives records that document major milestones in the lead-up to the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Spirit of Independence honors the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence, which will launch in February 2026. As part of the celebration, the National Archives will reopen newly renovated signature exhibit spaces, including a new discovery center where students and people of all ages can engage in educational activities to enhance their knowledge of civics and American history.

Special Programs
Special programs include both virtual and in-person informative, educational, and inspirational events designed to engage with Americans of all ages from across the country. A series of National Conversations, titled “In Pursuit,” will feature thought-provoking discussions by prominent public figures about the meaning and impact of the Declaration of Independence. Held in various locations across the United States, these events will also be available online.. Public programs related to the new exhibits and honoring veterans will take place throughout the celebratory anniversary. Finally, a challenging scavenger hunt featuring puzzles and clues from historic documents will entice visitors to channel their inner “treasure hunter” spirit and learn about America’s past.

Special Initiatives
Other special initiatives include “100 for 250,” a joint endeavor by the National Archives, the National Archives Foundation, and More Perfect to celebrate the most notable 100 documents from the Archives. The public will vote on document choices, and teachers can incorporate preparation materials, guides, and an online collection of documents into daily lesson plans. 100 for 250 will help classrooms across the country join the broader public for discussions and add their voice about our collective history. Another special initiative, called “Letters to the Presidents,” is a collaboration among all Presidential Libraries to feature letters to Presidents and First Ladies as a way to highlight the ongoing conversation between citizens and their government.

America 250
In addition to its own Declaration250 celebration, the National Archives is an active participant in America 250, a nationwide campaign planned and orchestrated by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, designed to engage Americans across the country in creating the largest and most inclusive anniversary observance in our nation’s history.

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Declaration250 is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation through the generous support of Comcast Corporation, Microsoft, and Procter & Gamble.

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To find out more about the nationwide America 250 celebration, visit America250.org.