Fireworks for July 4th, 2026 will undoubtedly be some of most spectacular in history as America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. But, you don’t have to wait until next year to take part in the festivities.
“There were so many milestones that led to the founding our nation, many born in Virginia and of Virginians,” says Cheryl Wilson, executive director of VA250. “There is no better time than the 250th to reconnect with your country in the place that made it possible.”
The VA250 Commission was formed specifically to plan and execute Virginia events leading up to and including the 250th anniversary of the United States. So far, there have been over 1,400 events across the state. Find them all at VA250.org
“Our overarching goals are to educate Americans, including our students, about our history, our founding ideals, and our system of government; engage with every community and every Virginia locality in events that tell a complete story; and inspire us all to commit to the values inherent in American citizenship,” Wilson says.
Virginia has played a pivotal role in the nation’s history, from the first English settlement at Jamestown to the eight presidents that called the Commonwealth home — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, John Monroe, William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor and Woodrow Wilson.
Just recently on March 23, dozens of people made their way to St. John’s Church for a memorable reenactment of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death” speech.
“To be in St. John’s Church on the day 250 years after the historic oration occurred, perhaps even to the moment of the day, is a once in a lifetime experience,” Wilson says. “It’s an opportunity unique to Virginia – nowhere else can you walk the same ground as they did on that day all those years ago, feel the breeze as they did, and even sit in the same spot as those that witnessed that momentous occasion 250 years ago.”
She goes on to point out that Patrick Henry’s speech has become part of our national identity. “The unwavering determination and dedication exemplified in his speech have inspired countless generations around the globe to stand up for what’s right and for each other,” she says. “America would not be what it is today without that fiery spirit of devotion to freedom, and it was a Virginian that ignited the spark.”
The state will once again be recognized when filmmaker Ken Burns’ newest six-part documentary The American Revolution premieres on PBS on November 16. “Ken Burns, with his unparalleled ability to bring history to life through compelling storytelling, is a vital partner in the VA250 and national semiquincentennial,” says Wilson. “His involvement ensures that the stories of our founding are accessible and engaging to a wide audience.”
Virginia’s museums and historical sites are essential partners to the endeavors of VA250 and are hosting different programs and events regarding the state’s role in the Revolution. “Those institutions and sites are the custodians of our history, and their expertise and resources are invaluable,” Wilson says. “We recognize the enduring legacy of the semiquicentennial will live on in their continued efforts long after our commission has sunset after the anniversary of Yorktown in 2031 and will carry the torch forward for another 250 years.”
