In 2026, the country will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its founding. This milestone is also closely connected to a celebration of the role that local governments have played in shaping our country and its governance.
As a country born out of revolution and hungry for independence, local governance was a crucial element of America’s founding. That’s why the National League of Cities is proud to join the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National Association of Regional Councils and several other groups in marking this historic occasion with a yearlong commemoration and recognition of local government and the people and services that make our local communities great places to live, work and play.
Starting this July, LocalGov 250, a national effort among our organizations, will showcase how cities, counties, regional councils and tribal governments have shaped — and continue to shape — American democracy from the ground up. We’ll highlight the rich stories of local government through storytelling, recognition and innovation.
As the country marches towards its semiquincentennial, here are a few ways that cities, towns and villages can get involved:
Nominate a Local Hero
Local Gov 250 will be selecting 250 local government heroes from all municipal professions to recognize during 2026. Nominations will open in October 2025. Heroes will be recognized at the Local Gov 250 Convening in Philadelphia in 2026.
Light to Unite
NLC has endorsed (PDF) the Light to Unite initiative being led by the National Flag Foundation. In a call for national unity, the Light to Unite initiative encourages all cities, towns and key American buildings to light up (preferably in red, white and blue) on July 2, 2026. If you would like to join the Light to Unite initiative and commit to lighting a building in 2026, complete this form.
Moments
LocalGov250 will highlight key moments in American local government history that made a difference in the course of our nation. Share your own local community historical moments with LocalGov 250. Tag us on social media at #localgov250.
As we march towards America’s semiquincentennial, join LocalGov250 for a historic celebration.
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