You’re part of something big
Sesquicentennial. Semiquincentennial. Sesquisemiquincentennial.
In 2026, the United States will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—our nation’s semiquincentennial. At the same time, Colorado will mark the 150th anniversary of our entrance into the Union—our state’s sesquicentennial. As the Centennial State, Colorado is the only one who will observe twin anniversaries—our Sesquisemiquincentennial.
As we celebrate this uniquely Colorado commemoration, we invite you to pause, reflect upon, and honor Colorado’s shared history as we imagine our future together through community events, educational opportunities, statewide celebrations, and more.
The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission was established to guide Colorado's twin commemorations in ways that enable all Coloradans to participate. We encourage Coloradans from all corners of our state to undertake diverse, imaginative efforts to remember our shared past and imagine a unified future. As we create opportunities to commemorate and celebrate Colorado’s stories, the Commission is committed to recognizing that our shared history includes the experiences of all who have called Colorado home.
2026 will be an opportunity for us to come together as we celebrate Colorado by acknowledging our complete shared history, honor what makes Colorado unique, and recognize our shared destiny as we strive toward a more perfect union.
We acknowledge that the land currently known as Colorado has been the traditional homelands of Indigenous peoples since time immemorial.
Featured Programs
Commission Signature Initiatives
The Commission has developed 13 signature initiatives for the commemoration to honor our shared history and celebrate Colorado. In addition to encouraging the people of Colorado to participate with these signature initiatives, we empower communities to imagine and create their own commemorative programs and projects.
Free, Print-On-Demand Exhibition
On July 4, 2026, the nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Moments That Made US is a free, customizable, print-on-demand exhibition exploring the ideals at the heart of the Declaration of Independence through moments in our history that have defined their meaning. It does so in a user-friendly format that organizations can adapt, afford, and make their own.
This commemoration is a chance for every community, large or small, to come together with a shared purpose in reflecting on the past and building stronger, more connected communities in the future. Moments That Made US will ensure that every interested institution can access compelling content in 2026.
The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission is thrilled to launch a statewide digital passport. Participants can check-in at sites to earn rewards, badges, and exclusive offers. Sponsored by United Airlines, this passport program is designed to encourage both locals and visitors to explore Colorado’s hidden gems, diverse businesses, and rich heritage
Events Calendar
We invite communities across the state to be part of a once-in-a-generation commemoration, honoring the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood. This statewide calendar highlights events that celebrate our shared history, culture, and communities across our great state.
Feature Your Event
Share all of the exciting opportunities to participate in your local community! Open to community groups and organizations planning events and programs, this will be the best way to see what is happening around Colorado as we commemorate the anniversaries.
To be included on the America 250 - Colorado 150 statewide calendar, your event must commemorate Colorado’s shared history and/or celebrate the people, cultures, and communities that make our state unique. We encourage events to align with the commemoration by using our logo, branding, or messaging where appropriate. The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission is excited to share our logo with you for no cost, and we hope to see it featured with all commemorative events in Colorado!
Our Partners
We gratefully acknowledge our partners for their generous support at the following levels:
Blue Spruce
Aspen
Ponderosa
Cottonwood
Oak
Juniper
Aligned Giving Foundation Partners
