As the United States prepares to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, America250 has introduced an updated America250 Playbook: Our Journey to 2026. This guide brings the nation’s Semiquincentennial into focus through meaningful programs, shared moments, and opportunities for connection.

Designed with input from federal agencies, State and Territory Commissions, community organizations, and partners across the country, the Playbook lays out a national effort to encourage participation from people of all ages and backgrounds. Its goal is simple: ensure every community has a place and voice in commemorating this historic milestone.

At the heart of the Playbook are five major national movements that will carry the country into 2026:

• America’s Field Trip will invite students in grades 3–12 to express what America means to them, with an expanded 2026 program that awards behind-the-scenes experiences to 250 students across the nation.
• Our American Story will gather personal stories from every state and territory through mobile studios and community activations.
• America Gives will launch on January 1, 2026, setting the stage for a year defined by service—encouraging faith communities, nonprofits, schools, local groups, and companies to participate in volunteerism at scale.
• America Innovates will travel the country with hands-on exhibits that spotlight breakthroughs in science and technology, giving students and families new ways to experience American ingenuity.
• America Waves will invite people everywhere to raise the U.S. flag — physically or symbolically — during shared moments of reflection that unite all time zones.

The Playbook also previews a five-day series of national July 4th “Moments,” beginning with a frontier-era experience in Medora, North Dakota; a proposed special session of Congress in Philadelphia for the placement of the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule; a Times Square countdown on July 3; America’s Ultimate Block Party on July 4; and a national Day of Reflection on July 5.

Already, dozens of states, cities, and cultural institutions are building programming that will bring these ideas to life — from exhibitions and festivals to youth engagement and preservation projects.

A New Way to Support the Celebration

Alongside the updated Playbook, America250 has also launched the America250 Funding Directory, a resource designed to link supporters with Semiquincentennial initiatives across the country. The directory offers information for individuals, companies, and foundations looking to contribute to national, state, or local programs.

Each listing includes details on how to donate, key contacts, and an overview of the initiative. Whether someone is passionate about public art, historical preservation, youth programs, or regional storytelling, the directory makes it easier to support the work already happening nationwide.

“The journey to 2026 is a chance to honor our history while imagining the possibilities of our next chapter,” said America250 Chair Rosie Rios. “Through the Playbook and Funding Directory, we’re creating pathways for engagement that empower every American to contribute to the narrative we will pass on to future generations.”

As 2026 approaches, America250 is calling on individuals, families, classrooms, businesses, and communities to take part — whether by volunteering, sharing stories, attending local events, or participating in national movements. With the Playbook and Funding Directory in hand, the Semiquincentennial is set to become a collective moment shaped by millions.