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In 2026, Utahns will join with other states to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Utahns will come together to reflect on our nation’s past, build community, and look toward the future.

For nearly 250 years, Americans from all walks of life and every corner of the country have had a hand in shaping our nation’s history. From time immemorial, the area now known as Utah was populated by Indigenous people. Today’s eight federally recognized Tribal nations include the Confederated Tribes of the Goshute, Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, Skull Valley Band of Goshute, Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and the Navajo Nation. Spain claimed what is now Utah as part of New Spain from 1500 to 1821. In 1776 a group of Spanish Catholic priests, the Domínguez-Escalante Expedition, left Santa Fe hoping to find a route to the California coast as they traveled through parts of Utah. 

No two Americans began their journey in the same place. Except for Native Americans, our ancestors came to these lands from elsewhere. For many Utahns, the quest for statehood provides a lens to reflect upon the full sweep of our nation’s past and a deeper understanding of integration and the meaning and promise of America.

The semiquincentennial is a chance for everyone to feel a part of this major milestone in our nation. We can celebrate courage, liberty, and sacrifice, while also reckoning with difficult truths. By fostering a sense of belonging and coming together with our local communities, we can ensure that Utahns of all ages and backgrounds see themselves in American history.

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Mission

Utah’s America250 commission will honor our nation’s past, celebrate our present, and inspire a future that upholds the values that define us as a nation and state.
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Vision

Statewide America250 activities and celebrations will generate a wider appreciation of history’s relevance to contemporary challenges and inspire Utahns to take steps to improve our communities, state, and nation.
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Educate

Build Understanding

Spark deeper awareness and understanding of the history, values, and democratic processes that shape our nation. Together, these contribute to a better understanding of who we are, where we came from, and where we can go.
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Engage

Build Community

Examine Utah’s stories and forms of self-expression. Celebrate the unique traditions of people and places throughout the state and develop powerful service-oriented experiences that propel Utahns forward for the next 250 years.

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Unite

Build Bridges

Promote dialogue about our common bonds and themes of the American spirit. Develop forward-looking conversations about individual rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness while honoring the freedom of others to do the same.

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Learn about America250 Utah's Signature Programs

How Utahns can commemorate and celebrate America's 250th anniversary.

See Program Details