In June of 2023, the Niagara County Legislature created the Niagara USA 250 Committee which is made up of 25 members including representatives from historical and cultural organizations, community leaders, tourism officials, educators, elected officials and community volunteers.  The committee is charged with organizing local events around America’s 250th birthday, known as a semiquincentennial.

The celebration will kick off in 2026 and municipal officials, heritage organizations and county residents are asked to begin thinking about what their local community may do to recognize this historic occasion.  The Niagara USA 250 Committee is also asking communities to keep the committee informed as their plans evolve so there can be countywide coordination and cross-promotion. 

“Although the semiquincentennial is not until 2026, planning needs to begin now, especially as grant money for such celebratory events becomes available,” said Bob Emerson, Executive Director of Old Fort Niagara and chairman of the Niagara USA 250 Committee.  “By collaborating across the county, I believe we can put together some tremendous events and create an atmosphere similar to the excitement around the bicentennial in 1976 for those of us old enough to remember.”

Community members are asked to submit their suggestions for activities, celebrations and potential events to NiagaraUSA250@gmail.com.


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