America is celebrating 250 years since its declaration of independence. The National League of Cities is excited about the unique opportunity this milestone presents for local communities across the country.
This historic occasion is not only a time to reflect on the past—it is a chance to inspire civic pride, strengthen community engagement and create a vision for the next 250 years together.
On this page, you can find inspiration for your A250 activities, ideas for partnership and resources to support your journey.
Proclamations
A proclamation is a great tool to record for posterity your community’s participation in the 250th celebration. NLC has created two proclamation templates that can be downloaded and personalized for your city, town or village.
General Resolution Proclamation Template
This template recognizes the 250th anniversary.
City-State Commission Proclamation Template
This template recognizes the 250th anniversary and the role of the state commission.
Celebrating Cities, Towns & Villages at 250
Be sure to update and record your community’s participation and engagement of the celebration.
- Update City Website: Add an America250 landing page, an event calendar, or a highlight section featuring community achievements over the past 250 years.
- Update Social Media Logo: Incorporate a “250” design or commemorative theme to your city’s logo or social media graphics.
- Create Videos: Capture what the 250th anniversary means to your community. Feature local historians, students, or residents sharing oral histories, personal reflections, or hopes for the next 250 years.
Ways to Celebrate
Download Social Graphics
Download these customizable Canva graphics from NLC to help showcase how your community is celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
NLC America 250 Celebration Toolkit
NLC America250 Toolkit ignites the innovation and creativity of cities, towns and villages with suggestions of events, activities and services that municipalities can host or partner on to mark this milestone.
Partners
America 250 Commission
The America 250 Commission is a great resource for national programs that can be adapted for a local flavor or bring to your community
Local Gov 250
This is a collaboration of local government associations and interested professionals to educate and celebrate the “democracy at the doorstep” facilitated by cities, counties, regional councils and tribal governments. NLC is proud to be part of the coalition.
Light to Unite
The National Flag Foundation (NFF), whose mission is to educate and celebrate the American flag and honor those who serve to protect it, is encouraging cities to light up a building on July 4, 2026, at 9 PM. Participating is simple. Register indicating the date and how your community will light up in celebration of the 250th celebration.
American Battlefield Trust
The American Battlefield Trust preserves America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educates the public about what happened there and why it matters. The American Battlefield Trust has created the “American Revolution Experience,” which includes an online exhibit and traveling experience.
Share Your Story with NLC
Please take a few moments to share how your city, town or village is joining the America250 celebration!