In 2026, Coloradans will celebrate two special anniversaries; Colorado will be 150 years old, while America is turning 250!
Sesquicentennial + semiquincentennial = sesquisemiquincentennial
Say that five times fast! This unique convergence is something truly special, and we are excited for this once-every-50-year celebration.
America’s 250th Anniversary
It’s been a quarter of a millennium since the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776, officially separating the American colonies from Great Britain. In addition to the annual Fourth of July festivities, the whole nation is set to take it a step further with the America 250 Commission and Task Force 250. National events, tours, and programs will take place across the country, celebrating the history, contributions, and innovations of the past 250 years, while also looking ahead to the next quarter millennium.
Colorado’s 150th Anniversary
Officially founded in 1876, exactly 100 years after the United States, Colorado is nicknamed “The Centennial State”. It is the only state celebrating a major milestone alongside America next year. The commemorations focus on remembering the past, honoring what makes Colorado unique, and creating a shared vision for the future. Programs will include 12 signature initiatives, aligned giving, Colorado digital passports, and community toolkits. Events include drone shows, exhibitions, artisan markets, and more, primarily centered in Denver - the state capital - with many other Colorado towns hosting their own celebrations.
Although America became independent in 1776, the first state, Delaware, didn’t become a state until 1787, with the remaining 12 states following between then and 1790. Those original 13 colonies were just the beginning of the 50 states we know today.
Stay tuned for more information, including local Fourth of July festivities. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to The Durango Team for more happenings and ways to join the celebration.
