What is America’s 250th
The year 2026 will mark 250 years since the founding of the United States as marked by the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This commemoration is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to come together with a shared purpose in reflecting on the past and building stronger, more connected communities in the future.
As we look to “form a more perfect union,” we invite all Washington communities-regardless of size, capacity, or location-to join us in participating in America’s 250th.
Lewis County 250!
The Chamber encourages all communities in Lewis County to consider how they want to participate – whether it is rebranding an existing event or creating something new. Feel free to contact [email protected] or call Cynthia at 360-748-8885 on ways to celebrate. If you already have an event identified, just complete the event form below and we will add it to or main calendar at chamberway.com as well as include it in a list of Lewis County 250 events here on this site..
Online Event Form
How Does America’s 250th Benefit My Community?
Connect the Community
Bring diverse groups in your community together with a common purpose.
Share & Preserve Local History
Collaborate with local history organizations to highlight your community’s story and invest in history as a civic priority.
Promote Civic Engagement
Inspire participation in public life at all levels — from attending downtown events to running for elected office.
Boost Heritage Tourism
Positively impact economic development by encouraging heritage tourism to historical and cultural sites in your community.
Commemorative Themes
We the People
- Understanding the founding principles of liberty, equality, and democracy, as well as the importance of Tribal sovereignty
- Inspiring more active and meaningful civic engagement
- Examining who has been included—and excluded—in the concept of “We the People” throughout history
Power of Place
- Exploring how geography and place shape Washington communities and stories
- Preserving places to give Washingtonians a shared sense of identity and community
- Reflecting on events in the Pacific Northwest during the Revolutionary era that shaped our nation
Sharing History
- Sharing more inclusive histories to better understand the past and build a stronger future
- Supporting local history organizations and improving history and civics education
- Engaging all generations in learning about and appreciating history
Important Dates
June 14
Day of Service
Communities are encouraged to organize local service projects as part of the largest public service initiative in American history.
July 4
Independence Day
Organizations can incorporate our official themes of America’s 250th anniversary into existing July 4th activities.
August 8
Museum Day
Museums around the state will be open and offer free or discounted admission.
September 17
Day of Civic Engagement
Museums around the state will be open and offer free or discounted admission.
Countdown to July 4th 2026
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Day of Service
Communities are encouraged to organize local service projects as part of the largest public service initiative in American history. ...
Independence Day – America’s 250th
Organizations can incorporate our official themes of America’s 250th anniversary into existing July 4th activities. ...
Day of Civic Engagement
Museums around the state will be open and offer free or discounted admission ...
