 "The White House is seen behind bars from a fence in Washington, DC. AFP")
As the United States is gearing up for the Fourth of July festivities , some are already looking to 2026, the year America will celebrate its 250th birthday.
A year before the momentous occasion, US President Donald Trump said that Americans can expect much pomp and celebration around the semiquincentennial starting this Fourth of July through 2026.
He went on to predict that the celebration under his watch would reach “extraordinary levels” next year.
To kickstart this year’s celebration, Trump is scheduled to visit Iowa on July 3 this year to kick off America’s 250th birthday, marking his first visit to the first-in-the-nation GOP caucus state since his return to the White House.
Here’s all you need to know about what Trump’s team have been calling “America250”.
All about America250
The United States would celebrate its semiquincentennial throughout 2026, culminating on Independence Day – July 4, 2026. Interestingly, the kickoff for the landmark event will begin in 2025 at 5 pm (local time) on Thursday, July 3. Trump will be at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where he will speak about the initiative at 7:30 p.m. CT (Local time).
The Trump administration has already noted that there will be a variety of events throughout the country. According to the America250 website, some of these events have already begun, and others are still being planned. They are as follows:
America Innovates: A travelling tech expo that will display America’s greatest innovations as well as our aspirations for the future, asking the next generation of creators what innovations they want to create that will be critical for the next 250 years.
America Waves: An initiative designed to create moments for all Americans to come together with their communities, to wave their American flags, celebrate America’s 250th, and honour the contributions of those who brought us to where we are today.
Time Capsule: A collaboration involving all 50 states, five territories, and the District of Columbia to collect items for a time capsule to be buried in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026.
July 4th 2026 Activations: A national celebration in Washington, DC and across the country on July 4, 2026, in which we will partner with established groups who host legacy July 4th events as well as parade organisers at the state and local levels.
The Great American State Fair: In July 2026, Washington, D.C., will host a spectacular State Fair unlike any other. Every U.S. state and territory will bring its unique spirit, traditions, and pride to the capital, creating a dynamic celebration of our national heritage, innovation, and culture. It will be a vibrant showcase of the people and stories that make America extraordinary.
America’s Performance: This powerful concert series will unite audiences through the rhythm, diversity, and soul of American music. From country to jazz, gospel to rock, each performance will inspire connection and pride, reminding us of the strength we find in shared experiences and the joy of live music.
The Patriot Games: A first-of-its-kind competition, the Patriot Games will spotlight outstanding high school athletes from across the country. This inspiring event celebrates discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork while uplifting the diverse talents of America’s youth and shining a light on the next generation of leaders.
The brains behind America250
Soon after returning to the White House in January, Trump signed an executive order that created Task Force 250 .
As per the order, the group is responsible for planning and executing “an extraordinary celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence” on July 4, 2026.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsThe task force over the nonprofit America 250 will also oversee the creation of the National Garden of American Heroes, a sculpture garden first proposed by Trump in 2020. The garden is scheduled to be open in July 2026.