ABOUT US
COMMEMORATING 250
The year 2026 marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and with it, nationwide efforts to thoughtfully reflect on the USA at past, present, and future. The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission asked each state and territory to establish an official entity (a “state 250th commission”) to organize their planning and programming for the 250th anniversary. Washington’s Semiquincentennial Committee is chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, staffed by the Washington State Historical Society, and is composed of delegates from the Legislature and a variety of state agencies and commissions.
Washington’s 250 Committee is coordinating our state’s official activities for the 250th and is working to ensure that all communities, regardless of size, capacity, or location, can participate in the commemoration of America at 250.
KEY COMMEMORATIVE DATES
Organize service projects or volunteer for a local cause. Anyone can participate on any date in 2026—June 14 is just a suggestion!
Incorporate our official themes—We the People, Power of Place, and Sharing History—into your local activities.
Museums across the state will offer free or discounted admission and display their object for our Out of Many, One statewide exhibition project.
Plan activities to support civic participation and education such as a voter registration drive or a civics-themed trivia night.
WASHINGTON'S SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL COMMITTEE
Founding Legislation
Washington’s Semiquincentennial (250) Committee was established during the 2022 regular legislative session through Senate Bill 5756. The bill defines the committee’s purpose, structure, and procedures.
Committee Members
The committee is chaired by the Lieutenant Governor, staffed by the Washington State Historical Society, and composed of delegates from the Legislature and a variety of state agencies and commissions.
Quarterly Meetings
The purpose of the committee is to provide guidance for our state’s official observance of America’s 250th. Meetings are open to the public and held quarterly to discuss commemorative activities.
