Countdown to July 4, 2026: America 250 Begins Now

Celebrate 250 Years of American Independence by Renewing Your Civic Spirit

As we mark the 250th anniversary of American Independence over the next year, we’re invited to remember our founding and renew our role in shaping the future of democracy as we lead up to July 4, 2026.

The Fourth of July is often celebrated with fireworks and flags, but it’s also a perfect moment to reflect on the values that sparked the American Revolution: liberty, self-governance, and civic responsibility. The best way to honor those ideals? Civic engagement.

Democracy Depends on Us

An upside-down American flag hangs from the porch of a white house with a railing, marking America 250. Flower pots and hanging baskets decorate the porch, while green bushes and lawn are visible in the foreground.

In 1776, a bold vision was set forth: a government by the people, for the people. More than two centuries later, that vision still relies on you. Civic engagement is how we uphold our freedoms, strengthen our communities, and ensure that democracy endures for the next 250 years.

This July, consider how you can make a difference:

  • Register to vote or confirm your registration at Vote.gov.
  • Volunteer for a civic cause or a candidate you believe in.
  • Learn something new about the U.S. Constitution, civil liberties, or landmark court cases.
  • Attend a public meeting. Be it a town hall, city council meeting, or school board forum, attending a public meeting or signing up to speak is a powerful way to participate.
  • Participate in celebrations and events around the 250th Anniversary across the country. Find details and information at America250.org.

Whether you’re a seasoned voter or just starting to engage, there’s always more to discover—and more ways to participate.

Empower the Next Generation

Looking ahead, the strength of our democracy will depend on how well we prepare the next generation of citizens. That’s why the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute for American Democracy is deeply committed to youth education and engagement.

Our flagship youth programs aim to inspire informed, responsible citizenship:

  • The O’Connor Institute Ambassadors Online Civics & Debate Club equips high school students with the tools to lead through public service, respectful dialogue, and leadership training.

  • The Civics Challenge, a national video competition returning this August, invites students to creatively express their understanding of civics education topics.

  • Camp O’Connor USA, a free, merit-based summer day camp, introduces middle school students to the foundations of American government and civic leadership.

These initiatives reflect our belief that civics must be taught, learned, and lived—especially by those who will carry it forward.

A smiling child wearing an America 250 patriotic hat decorated with stars and stripes claps hands at an event. The child wears a white shirt, a lanyard, and festive red, white, and blue beads.

We also encourage learners of all ages to explore CivicsforLife.org, our nonpartisan online resource center featuring podcasts, videos, articles, and thought-provoking tools for lifelong civic learning.

A Celebration with Purpose

A hand holding sparklers, glowing brightly, with a blurred American flag in the background. The scene suggests a festive celebration of America 250, possibly on the Fourth of July.

Independence Day is not just about looking back—it’s a call to action. As Justice Sandra Day O’Connor often said, “The practice of democracy is not passed down through the gene pool. It must be taught and learned anew by each generation of citizens.”

So this year, celebrate with pride—and with purpose.
Learn. Vote. Engage. Inspire.

And most importantly, pass the torch of civic knowledge and participation.

Because the most powerful way to celebrate American independence is to use it.

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