Countdown to US celebration of 250th anniversary of signing of Declaration of Independence

Excitement is building as the United States counts down to the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

America250 is the national nonpartisan organization charged by Congress with leading the celebration and commemoration. 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,” the organization says.

Automotive Industries (AI), spoke to Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. She was the 43rd Treasurer of the United States, which makes her a powerful voice for the nation’s semiquincentennial.

AI: As Chair of America250, what do you want Americans to feel when they think about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence?

Rios: When Americans think about the 250th anniversary, I want them to feel a sense of pride, possibility, and connection.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history while bringing people together through shared experiences. Through nationwide initiatives and programming like Our American Story, America’s Field Trip, America’s Block Party and America’s Startup and more, we’re creating opportunities for people across the country to see themselves reflected in the American story.

At its core, this commemoration is about reminding us that the story of America belongs to all of us, and that we each have a role in shaping what comes next.

AI: How important has the role of the Automotive & Transportation industries been, in shaping America’s economic and social development over the past 250 years, and will be for the future?

Rios: The automotive and transportation industries have played a critical role in shaping how America grows, connects, and competes globally. They’ve expanded access to opportunity, driven economic growth, and transformed how people experience the country.

As we look toward 2026 and beyond, that same spirit of innovation remains essential. Through initiatives like America Innovates, we’re highlighting the ideas, industries, and technologies that will help define the next era of American progress, including the future of mobility and transportation

A: America250 is building major initiatives around stories, service, and student engagement. Which part of that mission feels most urgent to you right now, and why?

Rios: Service feels especially urgent because it brings people together in meaningful and tangible ways.

Through America Gives, we’re working to make 2026 the largest year of volunteer service in our nation’s history, mobilizing millions of Americans to give back in their communities. It’s about turning this historic milestone into action and creating a lasting impact that extends well beyond 2026.

AI: You led efforts to place a woman on U.S. currency for the first time in over a century. How does that experience shape the way you think about representation in America’s public memory today?

Rios: That experience reinforced how powerful it is when people can see themselves reflected in the symbols and stories that define our country. Representation shapes how we understand our history and who we recognize as part of it.

It’s a reminder that our shared history should continue to reflect the full breadth of the American experience, and that we all have a role to play in telling a more complete and inclusive story.

AI: What do you hope young people, especially students, will learn about the founding of the nation through America250 that they may not hear in a classroom?

Rios: I hope they come to see that history isn’t just something you study, it’s something you help shape.

Through programs like America’s Field Trip, students are invited to share their perspectives through art and writing, and in some cases experience these historic places firsthand. It’s about helping them connect more personally to the country’s story and understand that their voices will help shape the next 250 years.

AI: Your career has spanned public service, finance, and economic development. How do those experiences influence your vision for a national celebration that is also forward-looking?

Rios: My experience has shown me that progress comes from people being able to see opportunity and take part in it. That’s how I think about this moment.

The 250th anniversary is a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come while also highlighting the innovation, resilience, and potential that continue to define our country. It’s about ensuring this commemoration feels relevant to where we are today, and where we’re headed.

AI then spoke to Jennifer Condon, Executive Vice President of America250.org, Inc. It is nonprofit supporting organization helping deliver the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary through partnerships, programming, and public engagement. She has also been actively leading major national partnerships and engagement initiatives across organizations, youth programs, and community collaborations ahead of July 4, 2026.

AI: If you could leave Americans with one challenge or invitation as we approach 2026, what would you want them to do to help tell the American story?

Rios: I would encourage people to take part in whatever way feels meaningful to them. Share your story, give back in your community, or simply show up and be part of the moment.

There are so many ways to contribute, whether it’s through storytelling or service, but the most important thing is participation. This milestone belongs to everyone, and it will be shaped by the stories and actions people choose to share.

AI:  As Executive Vice President of America250.org, what excites you most about bringing together Americans from every community for the nation’s 250th anniversary?

Condon: The scale and diversity of this nationwide effort. Communities, partners, and organizations across all 50 states, five territories, and Washington, DC are coming together in ways that reflect their unique identities and experiences.

We’re working with businesses, cultural institutions, and local leaders to create opportunities for people to engage in ways that feel authentic to their communities. That shared sense of ownership is what will make this commemoration both meaningful and lasting.

AI: America250 is building historic public-private partnerships across industries — what role do you see business and innovation playing in this once-in-a-generation celebration?

Condon: Business and innovation are essential to delivering a commemoration of this scale. Public-private partnerships allow us to expand our reach, activate communities, and create experiences that resonate in meaningful ways.

We’re working across industries to meet people where they are, while encouraging new ideas that reflect the future of our country. It’s about aligning resources, creativity, and expertise to create lasting impact. Partnerships like our work with Stellantis, the exclusive automotive partner for America250, demonstrate how industry leaders can help bring this commemoration to life in meaningful and visible ways.

AI: You’ve helped lead partnerships with organizations across the country to engage millions of Americans — what has surprised you most about the enthusiasm for America250?

Condon: What’s been most striking is the level of enthusiasm and willingness to contribute. Partners across sectors are stepping forward with a strong desire to engage their employees and communities in meaningful ways.

Through initiatives like America Gives, we’re seeing organizations mobilize around service, reinforcing how deeply this moment resonates across the country.

AI: America250 is not just about history but about the future — how do you see this milestone inspiring the next generation of American leadership?

Condon: This commemoration creates a platform for the next generation to step forward and help shape what comes next.

We’re creating opportunities for young people to share ideas, engage in their communities, and see themselves as leaders today. It’s about ensuring they are active participants in shaping the future, not just reflecting on the past.

AI: With America250 initiatives focused on service, storytelling, and unity, what moment do you think will define the spirit of the 250th celebration?

Condon: I think it will be the shared moments that bring people together. Whether it’s local celebrations like America’s Block Party or other shared moments happening in communities across the country, those collective experiences will define the spirit of the celebration.

It’s not just one moment, it’s millions of people participating across the country, creating a shared sense of connection and unity.

AI: How has the Automotive programs and engagements across the nation, from the task force sponsors and stakeholders, been received and illustrated the task force aims and community messaging?

Condon: The response has been very positive, particularly in how these partnerships bring the mission to life in visible and meaningful ways. Automotive partners have helped translate the goals of America250 into real-world activations, from major industry events to local community engagement.

These efforts reinforce our focus on connection, innovation, and participation, and demonstrate how industry can play a meaningful role in engaging communities and helping tell the broader American story.

AI: As we approach July 4, 2026, what is your message to industries, communities, and individuals who want to be part of America250?

Condon: There’s a role for everyone in this moment, and we encourage people to get involved in ways that are meaningful to them. One of the most impactful ways to participate is through America Gives, our nationwide effort to make 2026 the largest year of volunteer service in U.S. history.

Whether through service, partnerships, or local engagement, this is a chance to contribute in a tangible way and be part of something truly national.

Attend America’s Block Party: July 3-4 Lineup

America250 is creating the largest synchronized Fourth of July celebration in U.S. history through America’s Block Party,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “The Fourth of July has long been synonymous with neighborhood block parties – we’re turning up the volume on this beloved tradition by scaling it into a nationwide celebration anchored in live music.”

All 350 million Americans can take part in the shared experience by attending America’s Block Party events or tuning into the livestream on the iHeartRadio app from their own neighborhood gatherings.

● New York – Historic July 3 Times Square Ball Drop: For the first time in its 120-year history, the Times Square Ball will drop outside of New Year’s Eve. On July 3 at 11:59 p.m. ET, the Ball will illuminate in a custom America250 design before descending at midnight into July 4. The Ball’s crystals for 2026 were custom-made for America’s 250th anniversary, featuring three distinct designs – Infinite Life (1.5-inch), Infinite Liberty (3-inch), and Infinite Happiness (4-inch). Each design features interwoven curves and circular motifs to reflect the shared ideals at the heart of America’s story.

● Los Angeles – July 4 Concert at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum: On July 4, America250 will host a family-friendly concert at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum,

bringing together major musical artists and patriotic tributes for an in-person audience up to 50,000 and a nationwide livestream audience. Headlining talent will be announced in the coming weeks.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – America’s Block Party at Summerfest presented by American Family Insurance: Set along Lake Michigan, Summerfest will serve as an official America250 Block Party location, welcoming fans from across the country for its July 4 celebration presented by Harley-Davidson. The event will feature a full day of live music, including performances by Jelly Roll, Sam Barber, The Temper Trap, BoDeans, Soul Asylum, Joywave, Jonah Kagen, and more.

Fort Campbell, Kentucky – Fort Campbell Festival: The home of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), will host a July 4 festival for military families and the public, featuring The Legend of Charlie Daniels Tribute Concert with special guests Aaron Tippin, Eric Lee Beddingfield, and the 101st Airborne Division Band. Expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees, the event is powered by Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, and Ram, and produced by Fort Campbell MWR, 8 Track Entertainment, and MOTR Music.

Charleston, SC – SC250 Charleston will host an Independence Day Celebration in Waterfront Park: Charleston played a crucial role in the American Revolution and in advancing the nation’s founding ideals. The Independence Day celebration on the waterfront will feature a peninsula-wide fireworks display, the largest in the Southeast.

More details, ticket information, and additional city announcements are available at America250.org.

Host a Block Party and Tune in to iHeartMedia

Americans can also register to host official neighborhood events at America250.org to receive a digital toolkit with signage, celebration ideas and games. Because no block party is complete without music, America250 also announced iHeartMedia as an official audio partner of the Semiquincentennial.

America250 and iHeart will bring the sounds of the celebration to every American. As the largest audio company in the United States, iHeartMedia is listened to by more than 250 million Americans every month across its broadcast radio network, streaming and digital platforms.

“iHeartMedia reaches 90 percent of Americans every month, and we are honored to partner with America250 to use the unique scale and reach of our broadcast radio and digital platforms to connect communities across America, helping to bring this once-in-a-generation celebration to life in a way that reflects the spirit of the moment,” said Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia.

Through this partnership, Americans will tune into a unified national audio experience on July 3-4, connecting celebrations from coast to coast through one shared soundtrack.

“Celebration” added to America’s Soundtrack

As part of 4th of July celebrations, America250 is releasing a new song in America’s Soundtrack. Led by executive producer Emilio Estefan, the initiative brings together iconic artists across genres and generations to create a defining musical collection for the Semiquincentennial.

To mark the 100-day countdown, Estefan announced that Kool & The Gang will release a new version of their iconic hit “Celebration,” a song widely associated with moments of joy and unity.

“You don’t have a party without music, and the party always gets going with a song everyone knows. ‘Celebration’ is one of those songs,” said Estefan. “The second it plays, you feel it. This new version is about igniting that feeling across the country and celebrating the 250th together.”

“It is a pleasure and an honor to be working with my brother Emilio Estefan on a new version of our No. 1 song ‘Celebration’ for America’s Soundtrack Album commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States,” said Robert Kool Bell, leader and only remaining founding member of Kool & The Gang. “Get ready to Celebrate Good Times Come On!”

Additional America’s Soundtrack songs will continue to roll out throughout 2026, building toward a defining musical moment for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Give Back: The Start of a New Fourth of July Tradition

As part of the Semiquincentennial, America250 is expanding its America Gives initiative to launch Giving 4th, a national effort to make July 4 not only a day of celebration, but a defining moment of giving back.

Building on the strong momentum of America Gives, which has already generated millions of volunteer hours nationwide, Giving 4th invites Americans to support causes they care about as part of the country’s 250th birthday.

“Our goal is to transform July 4, 2026 into the largest single day of charitable giving in U.S. history,” said Chair Rios. “Our ambition is to establish July 4th as a permanent national tradition of giving–on par with the holidays, but uniquely American in spirit.”

More details on how to donate on July 4 are coming soon.

More Ways to Participate (July 3-5)

In addition to America’s Block Party and the national give-back effort, America250 is activating partners across sports, culture, and history to ensure every American has a way to get involved.

● Major League Baseball is scheduled to host 15 games at 15 ballparks, giving Americans across the country the opportunity to enjoy the National Pastime on the Fourth of July.

● America’s Time Capsule will be publicly displayed in Philadelphia before being ceremonially buried at Independence National Historical Park on July 4. The capsule will remain sealed until 2276.

● The International Parade of Tall Ships hosted by Sail4th 250 will feature more than 46 tall ships parading into the Port of New York and New Jersey on July 4th. The ships will remain for four days of free public visitation.

● America’s Birthday Cake, inspired by America’s Field Trip and created by fine art cake artist and entrepreneur Grace “Grey” Pak of Duchess of Cameron and Netflix’s Is It Cake?, will be unveiled in Washington, D.C. on July 4 – blending artistry, precision and patriotic storytelling into an unforgettable centerpiece.

● America’s Day of Reflection on July 5 will include America’s Potluck, a call for communities to come together and share a meal, presented by the America250 Utah Commission. Additional events coordinated by State and Territory Commissions will invite Americans to connect, reflect, and look ahead to the country’s next chapter.

America250 Drives Momentum from Sea to Shining Sea

In the first few months of 2026, America250 has shown up in some of the biggest moments in culture and sports, from ringing in the New Year in Times Square and appearing in the Rose Parade, to the NFL Playoffs and Super Bowl. In addition to these moments, America250 continues to drive participation across its values-based programming:

• Received thousands of student entries for America’s Field Trip and America’s Startup
• Expanded stops on the Our American Story tour to preserve stories from Americans across the country to include new stops with founding sponsor Walmart
• Built the Congressional America250 Caucus to more than 380 members, making it the largest bipartisan caucus in U.S. history.