America250

On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate 250 years of independence. This historic milestone is known as a semiquincentennial and will be marked with special activities, including cultural events and educational programs, throughout the United States and overseas.

American Spaces are excellent platforms for commemorating America250. Below are resources to assist Spaces in celebrating this important anniversary.

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eBooks and Audiobooks

Via eLibraryUSA, use the Libby app to borrow ebooks and audiobooks about the American Revolution and U.S. founders.

Photo Credit: NPS photo

Program Toolkits

These toolkits can be used to plan programs around America250 in collaboration with the Public Diplomacy Section.

Photo Credit: National Archives

U.S. Constitution

American Spaces are encouraged to honor U.S. Constitution Day each year on September 17. The following toolkits can assist Spaces in program planning.

Photo Credit: Library of Congress

Library of Congress Resources

Delve into the history of the Declaration of Independence by browsing the Library of Congress’s collections, then watch a 20-minute video in which LOC librarians reveal why there are multiple versions of America’s founding document.

Photo Credit: Neil Lynch

National Park Service Resources

Teaching the 250^th Multiple lesson plans for grades 5-12 focus on themes such as liberty, equality, and the Revolutionary War.
Freedom Trail Audio Tour Sit back and allow your own personal park ranger to lead you to historic sites throughout the city of Boston. Learn about the city’s crucial role in the colonies’ fight for independence.

Photo Credit: Harry T. Peters “America on Stone” Lithography Collection

Smithsonian Resources

Explore virtual collections of art, memorabilia, and other artifacts related to America’s founding. Don’t miss the collection of images from America’s last major birthday – the bicentennial in 1976.

Photo Credit: PBS Books

PBS resources

This suite of videos takes viewers on intimate tours of lesser-known historical sites that symbolize an aspect of the American spirit of independence. It also includes video tours of American museums, interviews with award-winning U.S. authors, and conversations with U.S. constitution scholars about America’s founding documents.

Photo Credit: Find Your Park

Virtual Reality

Explore America’s extraordinary places, from historic monuments to national parks, with these free 360 tours.

Updated April 2025