July 4, 2026, will mark the 250th birthday of the United States. President Donald Trump has addressed this anniversary several times, including through June’s military parade.

In January, the president ordered that the policy of the U.S. is to provide a “grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026.”

Task Force 250 was also created with this order. The task force is responsible for facilitating “an extraordinary celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence” on July 4, 2026. It is also responsible for the creation of the National Garden of American Heroes, a sculpture garden first proposed by the president in 2020 that is scheduled to open in July 2026.

Here’s what else we know about “America 250” as July 4 approaches.

Who is behind America 250?

The United States Semiquincentennial, also known as America250, is a nonprofit dedicated to the celebration of the 250th anniversary across the country. The America250 site lists more than a dozen corporate partners, including Amazon, Coke and Walmart, and has information on events scheduled so far at states throughout the country.

How old is the United States?

The U.S. Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence 249 years ago, on July 4, 1776. On July 4, 2026, the U.S. will celebrate its 250th anniversary.

What America 250 events are scheduled?

According to the America250 website, several main events are planned. On Thursday, July 3, a “kick-off celebration” for the one-year countdown to America’s 250th birthday is planned at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, including remarks from the president. The June 14 military parade is also listed on the website.

In Western North Carolina, the Pioneer Heritage Festival is listed as an America250 event. The free festival will take place July 26, 2025, in Clyde on the grounds of the Museum of Haywood County History at 178 Morgan St, and will feature heritage demonstrations, “hands-on” activities like churning butter, food trucks, old-time music and more.

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: What is America 250? What America 250 events take place in NC?

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