A National Initiative Bringing America’s Stories to Life Through Exhibitions and Storytelling
The 250th anniversary of the adoption of the U.S. Declaration of Independence July 4, 2026, known as the Semiquincentennial, is a historic milestone. Two-and-a-half centuries ago, 56 signatures on a single sheet of parchment captured a bold idea that led to the founding of a nation.
As America’s Institution, the Smithsonian is honored and proud to celebrate 250 years of American history. For nearly 200 years, the Smithsonian has chronicled the nation’s achievements, contributed to its scientific innovation and captured America’s evolution as it worked to achieve the founding ideals stated in the Declaration. To celebrate the nation’s birthday, the Smithsonian is bringing forth a special series of events, exhibitions and programming called Our Shared Future: 250. This national initiative invites Americans to reflect on the nation’s founding and its history, while also looking ahead to its future.
“America’s 250th reminds us that the story of the United States is not only about the past we inherit but also the ideals we continue to pursue,” said Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. “With Our Shared Future: 250, the Smithsonian is engaging communities across the country to explore the history that connects us and the future we share. This is a moment to celebrate, to reflect and to renew our commitment to the enduring promise of America.”
From permanent and beloved exhibitions that explore American history—such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the National Museum of American History and “Nation to Nation” highlighting treaties between the U.S. and American Indian Nations at the National Museum of the American Indian—to brand new programming for the 250th, every Smithsonian museum and research center will speak to the American story.
Through objects, collections, research and storytelling, Our Shared Future: 250 aims to inspire a renewed appreciation for American history while igniting curiosity about the innovations and ideas that will shape the nation’s next 250 years. The Smithsonian invites everyone to take part in this national moment of celebration, commemoration, contemplation and renewed commitment to our shared future.