America 250

On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.


Get Involved

Two Lights for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative to commence the celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The famous ride of Paul Revere occurred overnight on April 18 – 19, 1775. Two Lights for Tomorrow uses the imagery of that shining light 250 years ago as a uniting call to action today for our fellow citizens, no matter where they are, to commemorate and remind ourselves that our history is about working together for a better tomorrow.

Everyone can participate! All you have to do is display two lights in your homes, at your visitor centers, your cultural, historical, and community sites, and in your government buildings in April 2025 to raise awareness and draw attention to and commemorate the beginning of our constant endeavor as a nation to work together for a better tomorrow. Some states will display their lights on the anniversary itself on April 18th, others will be displaying their lights the entire month of April.

At MCHs, we will have two lights on in various buildings on our property, including our McAllister House Welcome Center. We invite you to place two lights at your home, business, and other buildings.

 

America’s Field Trip

What does America mean to you? A multi-year contest that invites students in grades 3-12 to submit artwork and essays, answering the question, “What does America mean to you?” for the chance to earn unique experiences at iconic American historical and cultural sites.

Contest ends 5:00 p.m. ET on 4/16/25. Open to U.S. students (3rd – 12th grade). See Official Rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, prize description/restrictions and judging procedure. Void where prohibited.

 

Make Art. Make Music. Share hope for America’s future.

In 1976, as part of the United States Bicentennial, Manitowoc County students, families, and residents were making things happen right here in our community.


Manitowoc County Connections

  • Did you know that a Manitowoc County town was named in part by someone from the Revolutionary War? Learn the history of the town of Newton on our blog.

  • What did Manitowoc County look like in 1776?

  • Discover Manitowoc’s iconic Citizenship Day in 1939. Visit our archives blog.


America 250 at MCHS Schedule

Click on a program below to learn more.

Information coming soon about special school field trips, a community potluck, and more!