President Donald Trump will deliver a speech at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on Thursday evening to mark the start of a yearlong celebration for America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. The event has promised to offer “patriotism, excitement, inspiration, and a glimpse into the grand festivities planned for America’s 250th anniversary.”
The White House has planned a full year of events commemorating the nation’s founding that will culminate on July 4, 2026, 250 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The event in Iowa is being hosted by America250, the nonprofit supporting organization of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, which is orchestrating the yearlong celebrations. The scope of the commemoration reflects Trump’s “commitment to provide a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of America’s 250th birthday,” which he made a point of during his presidential campaign.
Ambassador Monica Crowley, a media representative for America250, said, “This special event serves as the magnificent start of a dynamic, year-long commemoration across our beautiful country, unveiling a vision for a renewed commitment to America's future.”
Trump is also excited for the event. He wrote in a Truth Social post on Tuesday, “I am thrilled to announce that I will be traveling to one of my favorite places in the World, beautiful Iowa, on Thursday, July 3rd, to kick off the very beginning of our exciting Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary!” He went on to describe the occasion as a “very special event, honoring our Great Country, and our Brave Heroes who fought to keep us FREE.”
Trump also said he was looking forward to the commemorations during his Memorial Day remarks at the Arlington National Cemetery. “We’re gonna have a big, big celebration, as you know, 250 years.” Trump quipped, “In some ways I’m glad I missed that second term … because I wouldn’t be your president” for the celebrations.
Of the many proposed celebrations, one...