SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinoisans can now help with preparation for America’s 250th birthday festival, taking place on July 4th, 2026. 

The Illinois America 250 Commission is inviting all the state residents to partake in the organization of programs, festivals and art displays that will showcase Illinois’s role in the founding of America. 

The goal of the commission is to carry out inclusive celebrations and observances in Illinois leading up to the commemoration of the United States.

Across the country, the big celebration will take place on the 4th of July, however, Illinois organizers plan to run a year of festivities from the summer of 2025 until the actual day in 2026.

The commission was put in place by Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield). In a news conference Friday, Turner emphasized the community’s involvement. 

“The America 250 Commission is a great way for people throughout the state to get involved, to get involved not only in what’s happening with the state of Illinois but how that connection, how that connectivity really connects Illinois with what’s happening throughout the entire country,” Turner said. “I’m looking forward to a wonderful celebration and not just a celebration, but many celebrations commemorating our 250th anniversary.”

The Illinois America 250 Commission is a bipartisan group with the goal to make the celebration local and Illinois-centric. The commission is looking to collaborate with different communities, schools, libraries, historical societies, and cultural organizations throughout Illinois.

Gabrielle Lyon, chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission, said Illinois plays a role in connecting local and national history. 

“Illinois absolutely has a critical role to play. And I have to say, boy, do we know it.” Lyon said. “We know it because in every corner of this state, people are excited and are already working to lift up local stories, to build civic pride, and to involve their communities in conversations about how and why our country was founded and where we go from here.”

With the anticipation of the anniversary, the commission plans to focus on four main areas:

1. Creating opportunities that engage diverse youth statewide and foster relationships between young people and elected officials.
2. Encouraging and supporting counties, cities, towns, and municipalities to commemorate the 250th accessibly and inclusively.
3. Identifying unique cultural assets and place-based visitor experiences for residents and visitors alike to showcase Illinois’ role in the United States’s complex legacy.
4. Gathering educational resources that enable young people, students, and life-long learners of all ages to explore and engage with the meaning of the anniversary.

As part of the preparation, the commission is working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Illinois State Museum, and the youth organization Made by Us Youth 250 Bureau. All event details will be available by July 2025.

Everyone is encouraged to submit their ideas that will connect local history with the broader history of the state and the nation. More information can be found on the Illinois State Museum’s website.