Welcome to the official state of Iowa web page for commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States through the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolution.
In 2026 people across the United States will commemorate the founding of our nation on the anniversary of the writing of the Declaration of Independence. All Iowans are invited to reflect on the founding principles of Equality, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness throughout 2026 with events and programs in their communities as well as Des Moines. It is hoped this celebration will help us all be proud of our nation’s founding, reflect on its meaning, and how we can best advance our founding ideals.
Our statewide commemoration is planned to last from statehood day on December 28, 2025 through the Iowa State Fair of 2026. The State Historical Society of Iowa, the official organizing entity for our state, is in the process of developing a statewide plan that, when implemented, will honor the America 250th milestone in Iowa. As semiquincentennial celebrations approach, more information about events and activities across the state, learning opportunities, community gatherings and much more will be added to this web page. Discover what is happening in a community near you or plan an Iowa road trip to honor the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States!
For questions regarding America 250 in Iowa, please email a250iowa@iowa.gov.
Events
- Civics in Action exhibit at the State Historical Building in Des Moines is where you can discover more about the civic ideals of the United States and Iowa, and the importance of civics in our communities. The exhibit features the Iowa caucuses and Iowans of action with more than 60 artifacts.
- Many exciting events are being planned all over the state. Stay tuned for more information!
Community Celebration Planning Ideas
Communities and organizations across Iowa are welcome to participate in America 250. We hope the following information, tools and resources from the national organizing entities can be used as a springboard to develop your own celebratory events and ideas. Once you have developed and confirmed your 2026 A250 events and activities, please share those details with us and we'll communicate them via this website.
- Iowa A250 Logo
- America 250 official website
- American Association for State and Local History website
- To request a hard copy of the 250th Anniversary Program Handbook, please contact Valerie Van Kooten at valerie.vankooten@iowa.gov or 515-281-8749.
Great American State Fair
Please note that the Iowa America 250 commemoration efforts are not affiliated with a proposed Great American State Fair event, nor involved in planning an America 250 celebration at the national level. For more information about national America 250 planning efforts, please visit america250.org.