Cities and towns across the United States are celebrating the 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the Declaration of Independence. There will be a yearlong series of events and activities including historical reenactments, parades, festivals, concerts, and educational exhibits. As the lead organizer for the event, America250 has set a goal of “350 by 250,” aiming to engage all 350 million Americans by the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Each state, territory, and the District of Columbia has formed its own commission to plan, coordinate, and support commemorative activities. And at the local level, thousands of organizations are planning celebrations, through hometown parades, festivals, community gatherings, public art projects, and celebrations of local history.
In Wilmington, DE, for example, the Wilmington 250 Committee will incorporate recognition of the country’s 250th anniversary into many of the city’s ongoing events. For example, there will be a citywide toast during Greater Wilmington Beer Week, dining events in partnership with Restaurant Week, and public art activities. The city will also reimagine annual traditions like the July 4th riverfront celebration and the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival to incorporate recognition of the Semiquincentennial anniversary.
More on celebrations nationwide appears in the March issue of Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter.
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