Celebrating 250 Years of America
Celebrating 250 Years of America
Saturday, August 1, 2026
250th Celebration at
Old Fort Niagara
Event details including ticket information will be posted soon!
Learn More
On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
In June 2023, the Niagara County Legislature created the Niagara USA 250 Committee, a group of more than 30 members representing historical and cultural organizations, community leaders, tourism officials, educators, elected officials, and dedicated volunteers. The committee was established to guide Niagara County’s recognition of America’s 250th birthday, known as the semi‑quincentennial.
Now, in 2026, Niagara County proudly joins the nation in commemorating this historic milestone. Municipal officials, heritage organizations, and residents across the county are coming together to honor our shared history, celebrate the people and places that shaped our communities, and reflect on the legacy we will pass on to future generations.
This anniversary year marks a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity for Niagara County to showcase its rich heritage, highlight the stories that define our communities, and celebrate the enduring spirit that has carried our nation from 1776 to today. Throughout 2026, countywide events, exhibits, and commemorations will bring people together in recognition of our past and in celebration of the future we continue to build.
Download a digital copy of the special America 250 Commemorative Coloring Book, featuring historic sites and special places across Niagara County. DOWNLOAD HERE
Discover Niagara County's Rich History and Exciting Destinations! Niagara County boasts a vibrant history and is home to a wide array of must-see attractions. Explore our "Places to Visit" page to uncover the many museums and visitor-ready sites waiting for you. Whether you're planning your itinerary or looking for inspiration, we've got you covered—download or print the complete list of visitor-ready locations today!
Celebrating 15 Municipalities • Honoring 250 Years of American History
The Niagara County Traveling Art Exhibit is now officially on tour, bringing the beauty and history of our 15 municipalities to communities across the county. The collection is currently on display at the Niagara County Courthouse through March 20 and will continue its journey to the Ransomville Public Library and additional venues throughout 2026.
To create this special series, the Niagara USA 250 Committee commissioned local artist Sal Anello to produce a dedicated painting for each municipality. His 16‑painting collection—one for every town and city, plus an opening piece celebrating Niagara County as a whole—captures the landmarks, landscapes, and defining features that make each community unique.
The series begins with a striking portrayal of Niagara Falls, honoring its iconic power and its role in shaping the region’s history. The Falls have long been a symbol of natural wonder, innovation, and industry—from the immense volume of water that thunders over the brink each second to the pioneering hydroelectric advancements that helped drive America’s growth.
As the exhibit travels, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience each painting up close. Every piece reflects a recognizable aspect of the municipality it represents—historic sites, rural vistas, waterfronts, village centers, and the places that define daily life across Niagara County.
This traveling exhibit stands as a vibrant celebration of Niagara County’s identity and a meaningful tribute to America’s 250th anniversary.
Visit the Exhibit Schedule page to see its next stop and be part of this once‑in‑a‑lifetime America 250 celebration.
August 1–2, 2026 America 250 Celebration at Old Fort Niagara
Saturday, August 1, 10:00 AM – Sunday, August 2, 4:00 PM
Old Fort Niagara will host Niagara County’s official America 250 celebration, a two‑day event featuring a full Revolutionary War encampment, living‑history programs, demonstrations, and musical performances.
Throughout the day on August 1 and 2, visitors can explore the encampment, meet reenactors, and enjoy special interpretive programs presented by Fort staff and volunteers.
Regular Fort admission rates apply during daytime hours. At the close of the Fort’s daily programming on Saturday, August 1, the site will reopen for the county’s main commemorative event, beginning at 5:30 PM. The evening program will include musical entertainment and a special after‑dark experience that will highlight the America 250 celebration.
Evening events are free with a car pass ticket.
Tickets will be available beginning June 15, 2026. Please check back for updates and ticket information.
This is an early “mark your calendar” notice. Please visit the August 1 Event Page for additional information.
Many thanks to our Sponsors:
