New experience offers first public look at nationwide commemoration, featuring interactive storytelling, historic initiatives, and exclusive merchandise
WASHINGTON, D.C. — April 1, 2026 — America250, the national nonpartisan organization charged by Congress with leading the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced the debut of a new immersive exhibit inside the White House Visitor Center.
Serving as a first look at the once-in-a-generation celebration ahead, the exhibit invites visitors to step inside America250’s flagship initiatives and explore how Americans across the country will participate in the Semiquincentennial.
The installation transforms part of the White House Visitor Center into an interactive preview of America250 programming, featuring multimedia displays, storytelling experiences, and opportunities for visitors to engage directly with the nation’s history — and its future.
Visitors will be introduced to the programs and moments developed by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission through a dynamic exhibit experience. Guests can explore America’s Time Capsule and write their own message to future Americans, listen to fellow citizens share their American Story or record their own reflections in one of two on-site recording booths. The exhibit also invites visitors to engage with America Innovates by sharing ideas for the nation’s next great breakthrough.
Visitors will encounter key America250 initiatives, including:
- Our American Story, a nationwide effort to collect and preserve the voices of Americans from all walks of life, with select stories becoming part of the Library of Congress. There will be recording booths for visitors to share their own stories as part of the program.
- America Gives, a national call to service encouraging millions of Americans to participate in volunteerism and community impact efforts across the country
- America’s Field Trip, a student-focused program offering once-in-a-lifetime educational experiences at iconic historic and cultural sites
- America Waves, a nationwide tribute to the American flag, uniting communities through shared moments of patriotism and reflection
- America Innovates, showcasing American ingenuity and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers
- America’s Time Capsule, giving visitors the opportunity to contribute messages to future generations as part of a historic national archive
The Visitor Center retail space will also feature commemorative America250 merchandise and items, including tote bags, stationery, plush toys, and other keepsakes marking this once-in-a-generation milestone. Highlights will include George the Star, a yellow plush America250 icon, and the White House Official Commemorative Ornament of America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration, created in partnership with the White House Historical Association (WHHA).
“Millions of people pass through Washington, D.C., and stop by the White House Visitor Center each year. As we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary, this is a wonderful opportunity for people across the country to learn more about America250, its programming and how to get involved,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “From sharing their own stories to engaging with the ideas and experiences that define our nation, visitors will get a meaningful preview of how they can be part of this once-in-a-generation commemoration. This experience at the White House Visitor Center is just the beginning of how America250 will bring Americans together in the lead-up to 2026 and beyond.”
The White House Visitor Center installation is part of a broader national effort to engage Americans in the lead-up to July 4, 2026, when the United States will commemorate 250 years of independence.
The exhibit is now open to the public as of April 1, 2026. For more information about America250 and how to get involved, visit America250.org.
About America250
America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. Learn more at America250.org.