The last time America threw a bash this epic was the country’s bicentennial in 1976. Fifty years later, the national capital area is again party central — think parades, concerts, fireworks, and major museum reopenings. Join in the celebration at these America 250 events.
Washington, DC, Events
Now Open:
National Archives Museum’s new permanent exhibition, The American Story, uses interactive technology to help visitors personalize their experience and view original artifacts.
Opens May 14:
National Museum of American History’s In Pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness tells the story of American history through 250 artifacts, including the Revolutionary War gunboat Philadelphia.
June 18–July 12:
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival theme this year is “Of the People,” highlighting the diverse communities that make up the United States. The exhibits on the National Mall will feature hands-on activities and live performances showcasing American changemakers.
Opens July 1:
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s 50th anniversary coincides with America’s 250th. The museum reopens its final new galleries as part of a multi-year renovation project. The museum will display 1,400 new objects, including a Blue Origin rocket booster.
July 4:
The National Park Service Fourth of July Celebration will include spectacular fireworks and a parade on the National Mall. Additional events will include a family scavenger hunt and a free concert.
Virginia Events
The commonwealth’s “America. Made in Virginia” campaign highlights Virginia’s role in the nation’s founding through a statewide calendar of events. Travelers can pick up a Virginia 250 Passport at welcome centers and participating tourism sites. The passport offers discounts and special perks at select museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions across the state.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon has reopened the family’s restored mansion and debuted the Patriot’s Path Revolutionary War Encampment, featuring reenactors and Colonial-era activities.
The Revolutionary War History Trail includes 12 sites in Prince William County and Manassas, among them Rippon Lodge and Weems Botts Museum, where visitors can learn how local citizens supported the war effort.
Celebrate the birth of American democracy at Williamsburg 250, with anniversary events at Yorktown Battlefield, Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown, and more.
Monticello, home of President Thomas Jefferson, hosts Jefferson Remembers, a daily theatrical program held from March until July 31 honoring America 250.
Sail250 Virginia is a gathering of tall ships that will anchor at ports including Alexandria, Richmond, Hampton, and Virginia Beach, culminating in Norfolk’s Parade of Sail from June 19 through 23. The ships commemorate the maritime role in the American Revolution.
Additional East Coast Events
Beyond the nation’s capital, cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore are hosting their own festivities.
New York will for the first time host a Second Ball Drop on July 3 honoring the city’s role in the American Revolution. NYC will also host parades, street festivals, and firework shows over the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park.
Philadelphia’s Welcome America is a multiweek festival from June 19 to July 4, with a parade, concert, and fireworks. Visit Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center to learn about the country’s founding documents.
Sail250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore run June 24 through 30. The skies will be filled with contrails hailing the arrival of a fleet of tall ships into Baltimore Harbor.
Feature image courtesy the American Revolution 250 Commission
This story originally ran in our March issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.
