Commemorating America’s 250th
On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
During the past 250 years, Pittsburgh’s innovations and “we can do it” spirit have helped change the world and shape U.S. history – from the rise of the steel, glass, and steamboat industries to modern advances in medicine, robotics, and technology.
This year, the Heinz History Center will celebrate those achievements and amplify the stories of Western Pennsylvania’s immeasurable impact on the American experience.
As Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh and USA TODAY’s #1 History Museum in America, the History Center will mark the U.S. Semiquincentennial with exhibitions, public programs, community partnerships, educational initiatives, and engaging digital content through 2026.
Kids age 17 and under can experience it all for free, supported by the Kamin “Free for Kids” Initiative, which helps remove barriers for young visitors to learn more about American history and civics.
Exhibitions
My America: An Illustrated Experience
In partnership with the Pittsburgh Society of Illustrators, local artists share what America means to them through imagery inspired by the pillars at the heart of the nation’s founding — freedom, equality, justice, and opportunity.
American Revolution at the Fort
Explore the Revolution’s impact on Western Pennsylvania and the people who defended it through artifacts, living history, and hands-on experiences in a new exhibition opening at the Fort Pitt Museum in Spring 2026.
American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith
Developed with the Smithsonian, this online exhibition explores how Americans have voted, protested, and participated in civic life from the nation’s founding to today. The exhibit was originally on view at the History Center in 2021.
Bells Across PA
The History Center has partnered with America250PA to host a unique bell sculpture as part of the Bells Across PA initiative – a statewide public art project to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. Created by local artist Scott Saloney and sponsored by Paul Gitnik, J.D., LL. M., the fiberglass bell features a vibrant rendering of Pittsburgh’s skyline and celebrates the city’s “can do it” spirit. The bell will be on view at the History Center through 2026.
Public Programs
History Matters: David McCullough Book Launch
On Nov. 19, the History Center hosted a special program celebrating the publication of his final work, “History Matters: Essays on the Importance of the Past,” featuring a conversation between his daughter, Dorie McCullough Lawson, and History Center President and CEO Andy Masich.
Smithsonian Speaker Series: America’s 250th
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the Smithsonian Lecture Series invites you to explore the ideas, innovations, and stories that have shaped our nation. Upcoming programs will feature speakers from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, and the Library of Congress.
History Talk: The Two Revolutions of 1776
Learn how Pittsburgh was forged by democratic ideals and industrial might on Jan. 2.
Stay Tuned!
Check back for ticket information and details on programs and activities to commemorate America’s 250th, including:
Flag Folding Ceremonies (select dates), History Center: Select dates in 2025 and 2026
Participate in the unfurling and folding of a giant 36-foot American flag on Flag Day and reflect upon the civic democracy and history that the flag represents.
Fourth at the Fort (July 4, 2026), Fort Pitt Museum: Kick off Independence Day in Point State Park with a 36-foot flag raising alongside scouts and veterans, followed by family-friendly living-history demonstrations. Presented in partnership with the Fort Pitt Block House.
Key Initiatives
America 101
Established in 2015, the History Center’s America 101 initiative empowers citizens to know and act on the promise of the country’s founders, enabling people today to write the next chapter of our democracy.
Civic Season
Connect with stories, inspiration, and tools to help power our democracy. Led by Made By Us and more than 500 cultural organizations across the country, Civic Season invites a new generation to step into history and shape the future
Partnerships
America250PA
The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the legislature and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present, and future. History Center President & CEO Andy Masich serves as a commissioner for America250PA.
Made By Us
The History Center is a founding member of Made By Us, a national coalition developed in partnership with the Smithsonian and the nation’s most iconic history museums. Made By Us transforms museums and historic sites into civic hubs for young adults, activating a network of 500 cultural institutions across the U.S. to engage younger audiences and strengthen democracy and civic participation.
For Educators
Classroom resources, field trip opportunities, and educator programs related to America’s 250th will be announced soon. Check back for curricular tie-ins, Act 48 programs, and more! Stay up to date by joining our educator mailing list.