Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
America 250 at The War Memorial
The War Memorial and our community partners will be hosting events throughout the year in celebration of our nation’s semiquincentennial.
America’s 250th anniversary is here. At The War Memorial, this milestone inspires new experiences with a historical twist—from musical journeys and lectures to a year of programming that brings the community together in celebration of our nation’s semiquincentennial.
In 2026, several beloved War Memorial programs will feature an America 250 focus, weaving patriotic themes into familiar favorites. Highlights include Tea & Treasures: A Toast to America at 250 with Detroit Opera, Second Saturdays at TWM: Red, White & Blue Celebration, and the Jazz Brunch featuring Dave Bennett on, spotlighting American compositions and traditions.
Forging a New, Free Nation
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
- Declaration of Independence, 1776
As America prepares to mark its 250th birthday, we pause to reflect on the profound principles rooted in the Declaration of Independence—principles that continue to define our nation and inspire our collective journey. In 1776, the rejection of a king and authoritarian rule ignited a movement centered on the revolutionary ideas that all men are created equal! To learn more about these initiatives and country-wide programs, visit the America 250 Michigan page.
New events, including antique showcases, champagne tours, and classic movie nights, will further explore history through culture and place. Guided by themes such as The Power of Place, The American Experiment, Doing History, and We the People, we encourage you to dive into unheard stories, highlighting the experiences of marginalized communities and individuals throughout our state’s journey. This programming invites reflection on our shared past and the nation’s next 250 years.
Portions of America 250 programming at The War Memorial are made possible through a grant from the America250MI Committee, supporting the preservation of the Alger family legacy and the celebration of service. Additional support from the Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity Community Museum Program is helping advance planning for a future permanent museum and expanded historic programming at The War Memorial.
