In 2026, as the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the milestone will be celebrated on stages across America. But nowhere will the celebration be more spectacular than in the nation’s capital. Washington, DC, with its international symbols of American independence, rich history and local culture, will serve as center stage for America’s grand national celebration.
Destination DC and a growing list of more than 70 participating organizations from the local tourism and hospitality community announced plans for a year-round celebration in 2026 on the National Mall and throughout the city’s cultural institutions, museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels. A launch event was held in the Rotunda Galleries of the National Archives Museum, the only place to see the Declaration of Independence and the nation’s founding documents. A new website, DC250.us, serves as a central source of information for potential visitors.
“As an economic development organization, our job is to grow visitation to Washington, DC to benefit residents and local businesses,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “The collective strength of the partners working together will draw visitors all year. No other city offers so many cultural experiences, many of them free. Visitors and residents alike can discover American history and appreciate DC’s local cultural identity at museums, theaters, public art institutions, restaurants, hotels, exciting sports and special events and more.”
The inclusive celebration will extend from the National Mall to the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, places and people.
“Washington, DC is America’s front door, and we look forward to hosting the biggest and best semiquincentennial celebration in the country,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “We know that there is no place in the world that tells the story of America better than Washington, DC. So, our message to fellow Americans is this: Start planning your trips to DC now – we can’t wait to celebrate with you.”
July 4, 2026, will be accentuated by fireworks, a grand parade, a two-day celebration on Pennsylvania Avenue and a month-long festival on the National Mall. From pertinent exhibitions to major openings, however, the city’s commemoration will take place all year.
The National Archives plans to offer exciting programming, including its Road to Revolution exhibit and a Spirit of Independence Festival in early June 2026 on Constitution Avenue. The Archives will also add new encasements to the Rotunda to permanently display the 19th Amendment (which removed restrictions for women to vote) and the Emancipation Proclamation.
Washington, DC will also offer ways to discover the impact of the Declaration of Independence on Americans from all cultures. The National Museum of American History is just one of the institutions that will offer special exhibitions celebrating democracy and civics, with historic artifacts on view. The National Museum of African American History and Culture will honor and celebrate the profound role and enduring contributions of African Americans in shaping the U.S. through inspiring special exhibitions, engaging programs and new publications. The National Museum of the American Indian plans to examine the impact of the nation’s formation on Native peoples. Viewing this historic moment through various lenses is an experience that differentiates the offerings of Washington, DC.
In 2026, the National Mall will feature updates including new exhibits at the Jefferson Memorial, an innovative museum opening underneath the Lincoln Memorial and an improved Tidal Basin with more resilient infrastructure, wider walkways and freshly planted cherry trees.
The 2026 calendar is brimming with opportunities to experience the story of the nation through seasonal festivals and activations. The 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival will reflect the spirit of America; summer’s Smithsonian 250th Festival will reflect the nation’s cultural landscape; and Trust for the National Mall’s “Beyond Granite,” an art exhibition contemplating the ideals of the Declaration, will return in fall 2026. The new “National Mall Gateway” will bring the National Mall to life, helping visitors plan their trip and connect to history.
The city’s theater community will offer themed programming, including a series of initiatives and free performances at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts designed to lift American voices. The Center’s programming, titled “The Promise of Us,” will empower artists who speak to the promise of the country around three pillars: Sounds of US, Stories of US and Future of US.
Additional anticipated openings in 2026 include the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, expansion of the National Air and Space Museum, the largest renovation in the 50-year history of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden and a new concourse at Dulles International Airport.
The District welcomed a record-breaking 25.95 million total visitors in 2023, surpassing the pre-pandemic record set in 2019. The data underscores the importance of increased tourism to the city’s economy. The new benchmark resulted in a record $10.2 billion in visitor spending, $2.065 billion in tax revenue and supported a record 102,366 local jobs, according to MMGY Travel Intelligence, S&P Global Market Intelligence, the National Travel & Tourism Office and the U.S. Department of Commerce. Data for 2024 travel is expected to be released in May 2025.
While it’s difficult to estimate economic impact over the course of 2026, local hotels, restaurants and businesses are expected to benefit from an influx of visitors. Destination DC is promoting the year-long celebration throughout its domestic and international advertising, creative, editorial, content and messaging. Hotel packages, to be announced, will entice travelers to stay overnight and explore.
To see a list of major events coming 2026 and start planning today, head to DC250.us.
Photo courtesy of Destination DC.
