Where Are the Biggest America 250 Celebrations Happening in 2026?

Major celebrations will take place across the country, but expect the most robust programming in the regions tied closely to the nation’s founding. Philadelphia, Boston, DC, and New York City will host large-scale America 250 events, while major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago will roll out patriotic festivals and exhibitions for all ages.

There's no better place to celebrate America 250 than the city where it all started. Photo by Elevated Angels for Visit Philadelphia

What Are the Best East Coast Destinations to Celebrate America 250 with Kids?

1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — The Heart of America 250

When: Throughout 2026, with major celebrations July 1–5

Where: Independence National Historical Park, Old City, museums across Philadelphia

Highlights:

• Special America 250 exhibits at the National Constitution Center
• Family-friendly programs at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
• Parades, concerts, and fireworks over July 4th weekend
• Living-history events and hands-on activities for kids

Also Visit: Our 3 Days in Philadelphia with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom features must-visit sites like the Please Touch Museum and the Franklin Institute. Find a great place to stay on our list of 17 kid-friendly Philadelphia hotels.

2. Boston, Massachusetts — Revolution-Themed Family Fun

When: Spring - Fall 2026, with expanded July 4th festivities

Where: Freedom Trail, Boston Harbor, Boston Common

Highlights:

• Reenactments along the Freedom Trail
• Special programming aboard the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• Harborfest celebrations with fireworks, ship tours, and kid-friendly events

Also Visit: Check out our 3 Days in Boston with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom for all the best places to visit, from the Boston Children's Museum to the New England Aquarium. Our list of Boston hotels that make stays special for kids includes some great hotel options.

The nation's capital will do it up big for America's 250th. Photo by Carol M. Smith courtesy of the Library of Congress

3. Washington, DC — A National Celebration for All Ages

When: Year-long programming with major July 4th events

Where: National Mall, Smithsonian museums, Capitol grounds

Highlights:

• Special America 250 exhibits at Smithsonian museums
• New exhibits at Mount Vernon
• National Independence Day Parade
• A Capitol Fourth concerts and fireworks
• Hands-on history activities perfect for young learners

Also Visit: Want to explore more, from the National Zoo to the Library of Congress (both free)? Check out our 3 Days in DC with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom. Our list of family-friendly spa resorts near DC features hotels that are both relaxing and fun.

Gloria Molina Grand Park's Summer Block Party is a great place to be on July 4th. Photo by John McCoy for the park

Where to Celebrate America 250 on the West Coast with Kids

4. Los Angeles, California — Red, White & Blue in the Hollywood Hills

When: Summer 2026, with peak celebrations around July 4th

Where: Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Park, LA waterfront and museums

Highlights:

• Hollywood Bowl’s legendary July 4th concerts
• Battleship Iowa’s special America 250 programming
• Reagan Library & Nixon Library patriotic exhibits

Also Visit: Want to save money during your LA trip? Don't miss our 3-Day Budget-Friendly Los Angeles Itinerary with Kids, which includes fabulous places like the La Brea Tar Pits, the Petersen Automotive Museum, and of course the beach! For hotel options, see our roundup of the best hotels in Los Angeles with perks for kids.

Other Places to Celebrate America 250

Other cities across the US are hosting their own commemorative America 250 events, including:

5. Chicago, Illinois

Enjoy lakefront fireworks, museum programs, July 4th festivals, and more things to do for America 250 with kids in Chicago. Explore more, from the Lincoln Park Zoo to the Museum of Ice Cream, in our 3 Days in Chicago with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom. Our list of kid-Friendly hotels in Chicago has some great places to stay.

6. Williamsburg, Virginia 

Celebrate America 250 by seeing some Revolutionary War reenactments at Colonial Williamsburg. Our Colonial Williamsburg visitors guide and our list of the best things To do in Williamsburg with kids will ensure you don't miss a thing while you're there!

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Visit Revolutionary War sites and enjoy special America 250 programming in Charleston. While you are there, check out more activities on our list of the 30 best things to do in Charleston with kids.

Family Travel Tips for America 250 Celebrations

• Book early! 2026 will be one of the busiest travel years in decades.
• Check for family packages at museums, theme parks, and historic attractions.
• Bring learning tools like patriotic crafts, scavenger hunts, and travel journals to make the trip educational and fun.
• If you're traveling by car, don't leave without checking out our Ultimate Road Trip Guide for Families.
• Our City Family Guides tell you where to stay, eat, and play in great towns.
• Get ideas for patriotic crafts, games, and desserts to enjoy during your trip in our list of the best 4th of July activities for kids.

FAQ — America 250 with Kids

Q: What is America 250?
A: America 250 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding in 2026.

Q: When do the America 250 celebrations take place?
A: Events begin in early 2026 and culminate with nationwide celebrations over July 4th weekend.

Q: Which cities will have the biggest celebrations?
A: Philadelphia, DC, Boston, Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles

Q: Are there free America 250 events for families?
A: Yes! Many parades, fireworks shows, museum days, and public gatherings are free for all ages.

Q: What’s the best way to plan a family vacation around America 250?
A: Choose one or two major destinations, book ahead, and add nearby attractions for a full family-friendly itinerary.