This July 4th marks a once-in-a-generation milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America250 Utah, the state commission commemorating this historic occasion, is inviting every Utahn to be part of this extraordinary moment through a sweeping series of local and statewide events and shared experiences happening through July 5.
With more than 150 municipalities contributing to the celebration, Utah programs with 250th anniversary themes are designed to help Utahns reflect on our past, build community, and look toward the future through the unique and rich lens of Utah’s stories.
“I believe Utahns will find meaning and connection in this, our national moment,” said Utah Gov. Spencer J Cox. “By engaging with their neighbors and communities, we know the people of our great state can find or create an event which inspires them to play a positive role in shaping the next 250 years of our country.”
“Utah’s stories, history, and traditions are also America’s stories,” said Chris Abbott, associate director for America250 Utah. “Communities are celebrating the values we hold as Americans including freedom, innovation, resilience, and grit.”
STATEWIDE CELEBRATIONS: JUNE 27–JULY 5
More than 100 events are planned across Utah. Highlights include:
- Museum of Utah Grand Opening — June 27. A landmark cultural moment for the state. Join us on the Utah Capitol Complex from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for a full day of kid-friendly activities, make a wish for the next 250 years of our country, explore galleries, and immerse yourself in the stories that shape our state. This event is free and open to the public.
- Light to Unite — July 3–5. As part of this historic 250th moment to commemorate and celebrate the anniversary of our nation, the Utah State Capitol, in partnership with the Capitol Preservation Board, will be lit for three nights in a red, white, and blue patriotic theme.
- Music Elevated with the Utah Symphony — July 3, Celebrate the music and composers that define America’s artistic spirit with the Utah Symphony and Opera in partnership with America250 Utah. The free concert series celebrates the music and composers that define America’s artistic spirit, honors Utah’s distinct heritage, and showcases the towns and landmarks that make our state special.
- Community Celebrations – July 4, statewide. From rural counties to urban centers, communities throughout Utah are hosting their own local events.
- America’s Potluck — July 5, statewide. Neighbors across Utah are invited to come together for communal meals that foster connection and belonging. Dozens of potlucks are already planned in communities including Blanding, Helper, Manila, Minersville, Ogden, Richfield, and Smithfield.
COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS ACROSS THE STATE
Parades, fireworks, concerts, car and tractor shows, service projects, and rodeos, are just a sampling of the locally-led celebrations around the state.
- Spark the Spirit Challenge, American Fork
- Interdependence Day: Ice Cream Social and Talent Show, Boulder
- Farmers Market Concert and Bike Parade, Bountiful
- Red, White, and Bloom Front Yard Contest, Cottonwood Heights
- Voices of Freedom, Monticello
- Cheers to 250 Years, Perry
- Tribute to America: Patriotic Concert, Riverton
- Red Rock Blue Sky Concert, Springdale
- 4th of July Concert and Fireworks, Tooele
“Communities of every size have come together to showcase the best of ourselves and our nation,” said Nicole Handy, executive director of America250 Utah. “There is something for every Utahn of every generation to celebrate our country, reflect on stories that connect as Americans, and enjoy locally as part of a national commemoration.”
