America Turns 250 — Let the Celebration Begin! 

In 2026, the United States turns 250 years old. That’s a big birthday. A really big one. The official name—the Semiquincentennial—sounds fancy, but the idea is simple: pause, remember, celebrate, and look ahead with hope.

If you were around in 1976, you might remember America’s 200th birthday, the Bicentennial. I was a young girl then, and even though I didn’t understand everything going on, I remember the buzz—all year long.

It was a tough time in our country. There were long gas lines, loud protests, and plenty of anger over things I was too young to grasp. Looking back now as an adult, I realize something important: not much has changed. Every generation faces conflict. There are always disagreements, rising prices, and strong opinions on every side.

And yet—then and now—we still celebrate.

Red, White, Blue… and Hot Dogs 

What I remember most about 1976 wasn’t the news. It was the feeling.

I remember flags everywhere. Banners waving. Music playing. And especially the Fourth of July—a perfect summer day with my family at the beach. We ate hot dogs, played in the water, laughed a lot, and waited for the fireworks.

When the sun went down, the sky lit up over the ocean. I can still remember the sounds, the smells, and the way the ground felt under my feet as fireworks exploded over the pier. I remember feeling proud. Safe. Happy.

I was proud to be an American.

Fifty years later, that pride is still there.

A Nation with Grit 

Are we perfect? No.
Do we have moments we wish we could do better? Absolutely.

But we are also a nation of grit—people who care deeply, speak up, work hard, and believe that tomorrow can be better than today. We are strong as individuals, and even stronger when we stand together.

That’s what this 250th celebration is about.

Across the country, organizations like America250 and Freedom 250 are helping communities plan meaningful, fun, and thoughtful ways to mark this historic milestone. Museums, parks, and towns are hosting special exhibits, service projects, and celebrations that honor our shared story—including the good, the hard, and the hopeful.

The Smithsonian Magazine even highlights creative ideas for celebrating—from traveling exhibits to local history projects that bring America’s story close to home.

Looking Back—and Standing Taller

This year invites us to reflect honestly. To talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly—and still choose unity. To listen. To serve one another. To teach our children that loving your country doesn’t mean ignoring its flaws; it means caring enough to help it grow.

So let’s fly the flag.
Let’s tell the stories.
Let’s eat the hot dogs, watch the fireworks, and make new memories together.

Most of all, let’s stand a little taller as a nation—grateful for what was brought together 250 years ago, and hopeful for what comes next.

America is 250.
And the celebration is just getting started. 

• Julie Adamic, Proud American , Executive Director at John Hancock Charter School