Join us in reflecting on our history, honoring the contributions of all Americans, and envisioning the future we want to create for the next generation.
July 4, 2026, marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In recognition of this significant moment, we created Chatham Celebrates America 250 to provide our residents and visitors with robust educational experiences and inclusive programming centered around the Semiquincentennial.
For the 250 days leading up to the Semiquincentennial, starting Sunday, October 26, 2025, we’ll be sharing programs, workshops, and mobile storywalks inspired by Chatham County and American history. Chatham’s America 250 initiative will culminate in a Community Celebration on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center.
The Chatham Celebrates America 250 Committee is very excited to launch our very own Passport Program!
Attend six signature Chatham Celebrates America 250 events. Following each activity, you’ll receive a “stamp” in your passport. When you bring your completed passport to our Cumulative Celebration on Sat, Jun 27, 10-2pm, you’ll receive a FREE, commemorative prize!
In celebration of America 250, the Chatham Community Library will host a virtual film screening of From Sea to Shining Sea: Katharine Lee Bates and the Story of America the Beautiful (2025) beginning Thu, Feb 19 and continuing through Thu, Feb 26, 2026.
“America the Beautiful” may be America’s most beloved song, but few know about the fascinating life of the writer behind it: poet, long-time professor at Wellesley College, and social reformer Katharine Lee Bates. Bates penned lyrics that reflect both a love for her country and a desire for reform. The song honors the unbroken chain of Americans who strived to make it all it can be.
A password is required at the time of viewing. Please contact [email protected] to request the password or for additional information.
We’ve organized a number of fun activities to take you far into the past and the future. Travel with us to explore significant spots, learn something new, or share what you already know (including fantastic multigenerational activities), and make it a memorable time in the 250 days leading to our grand finale celebration.
Congress established the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, or America 250, to commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration planning organization, and the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR) is the statewide entity responsible for leading the initiative and collaborating with various local, state, and federal partners.
In 2024, Chatham County Government applied for a $10,000 grant to support America 250 programming. After successfully securing this funding, the county formed Chatham’s America 250 Committee to implement this initiative. Committee members include the Chatham County Manager’s Office; Chatham County Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources; Chatham County Public Libraries; the Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau; and the Chatham County Historical Association.
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Join us as we celebrate community milestones and share updates on Chatham Celebrates America 250.
