"On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond."
America250 is striving for “350 by 250” — our goal to engage all 350 million Americans by our nation’s 250th anniversary. Join us in celebrating America’s Semiquincentennial by sharing your story through Our American Story or America’s Invitation, inviting students to describe what America means to them as part of America’s Field Trip, or helping make 2026 a record setting year for volunteer service through America Gives." Find all resources for America's 250 on the America250 national website as well as additional resources on Utah's Official America250 Website.
Additional National Resources
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. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America."
Latest News from America250 See America250 News as it happens including service, sports, celebrations, seasonal festivities, unveilings and more!
Getting Involved with America250 "Leading up to the largest commemoration and celebration in American history, America250 is planning a multi-year, national effort to engage, educate, and unite Americans from sea to shining sea through the following tentpole programs."
America250 Tentpole Programs
America Gives "An effort focused on reinvigorating a year-round culture of service beyond 2026-grounded in three key pillars: charitable giving, volunteering, and public service-which includes military service."
America's Field Trip A multi-year contest that invites students in grades 3-12 to submit artwork, videos, and essays, answering the question, 'What does America mean to you?' for a chance to earn unique experiences at iconic American historical and cultural sites."
America's Invitation "Your story is America’s story and Americans from all walks of life are sharing theirs in response to America’s Invitation. Your reflections on our past, present, and future are helping us create the largest commemoration in history."
Official America250 Calendar See the latest events and happenings by location in America250.
Utah America250 Resources
Utah America250 Contest "Join the 2026 Semiquincentennial celebration! We are awarding scholarships to Utah students who can bridge the gap between our nation’s founding documents and their lives today. To enter, Utah students will submit either an original essay or a piece of visual art that connects the principles of the Declaration of Independence or the U.S. Constitution to your life today."
Utah is proud to join the national celebration of America’s 250th anniversary! We invite students across the state to share their perspective on what America means to them today by exploring the foundational principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Website link for Utah State competition submissions
There are two opportunities to enter! The Utah essay and visual arts contest is designed so students can use a single submission to enter both competitions. Students can enter the national contest at National America250 contest and submit for Utah submissions, detailed below.
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- Eligibility: Any Utah student in grades 5, 8 and 9 - 12 are eligible to enter. All missions must be original work. Your essay or visual artwork should answer the national contest’s question, “What does America mean to you?” by incorporating the core principles of the Declaration of Independence and/or the U.S. Constitution.
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- Deadline: Monday, March 30, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. MST
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- Submission Requirements: Students at each grade level may submit only one mission either one written essay or one original visual artwork.
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- Judging Criteria: Missions will be evaluated based on Student Voice (60%) and Clarity of Ideas (40%).
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- Awards:
- Three students, one from each level, will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
- A total of 100 students will each receive a $250 scholarship.
- Award recipients will be notified in June 2026.
- Awards:
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Students under the age of 18 are required to have parent or legal guardian permission.
For more information about the Utah America250 Essay & Art Contest, including official contest rules, judging criteria, missions, and Spanish-language resources, please visit Link for Utah State missions can be found here.
Utah's Official America250 website "On July 4, 2026, Utahns will join the rest of the nation to commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. This year communities are gathering to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look toward the future."
"America’s anniversary is an invitation for everyone to find ways to celebrate what brings us together and join in the planning. America250 Utah endeavors to spark unity, engagement, and education across Utah."
Utah's America250 Programs "The semiquincentennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence offers us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a country and consider the ongoing work of democracy. America250 Utah is commemorating the anniversary with wide-ranging activities, beginning in the summer of 2024 and culminating in 2026."
Read250 "Pair your reading with Walk250 — Utah’s challenge to walk 250 miles across the state. With free eBooks and audiobooks via the Libby app, opens in a new tab (accessible with a valid library card) you can listen and learn while hitting the trails, exploring your community, or taking a stroll around town. While most titles may have wait times, a select number are available for instant access, with options for every age."
3D Coin Contest "In honor of the United States' 250th anniversary, we invite you to embark on a creative journey! Design a unique 3D printable coin that captures the essence of one of Utah's 29 counties. This is your chance to showcase the rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, or powerful symbols that make each county special."
Events Across the State for America250 Utah's hard-working organizations, innovative communities, and individuals are coming together to offer events and activities to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in our state. These events support America250 Utah's themes and mission and are open to the public. Find an event near you!
The Pen is Mightier: Writing a Revolution "An Exhibit communicating in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness."