America's 250th birthday: We're getting ready to celebrate milestone of our independence

We celebrate freedom in more ways than one this Fourth of July. After forgoing our traditions last year, we return to more familiar July 4th celebrations this year with picnics, parades, barbecues and fireworks.

We also mark the official launch of America250, the multiyear commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary of independence.

In 2026, when we celebrate 250, freedom will ring differently for today’s teenagers. They will be full-fledged voters – making their voices heard and weighing in on issues in a way Americans hold sacred.