UPDATE: New Year’s Eve celebrations are set to kick off the countdown to America’s 250th anniversary this evening, as communities across the nation prepare for a historic milestone. December 31, 2025, will mark the beginning of the Semiquincentennial, 50 years after the nation celebrated its Bicentennial in 1976.
In Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, plans are already underway for the momentous occasion. Earlier this year, the county dedicated a Liberty Tree—a Tulip Poplar seedling carrying the genetic legacy of a tree that stood during the American Revolution. This dedication took place in a ceremony led by Rev. Dillon Epler, who highlighted the importance of honoring the nation’s founders. “They dreamed of liberty not just as a word, but as a seed planted for future generations,” said Epler.
The America250PA organization is spearheading statewide events to observe this significant anniversary, officially celebrated on July 4, 2026. This date marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, a pivotal document in American history.
As part of the celebrations, communities will participate in the “Bells Across PA” initiative, where replicas of the Liberty Bell will be displayed across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. The public is also invited to engage in interactive historical exhibits, including a mobile museum that recently visited Orwigsburg during Heritage Day.
Orwigsburg is gearing up for its own 250th anniversary celebration, with events planned for the weekend of July 4, 2026. A “Celebration of Patriotism, Faith, and Community Spirit” will take place at St. John’s United Church of Christ on the evening of July 3. The following day, the borough will participate in the National Bell Ringing at 2 p.m., honoring the original 13 colonies with a 13-bell salute.
Mayor Barry Berger will read the Declaration of Independence during the ceremony, echoing the first public reading by Col. John Nixon on July 8, 1776, which resonated with cheers and bell ringing across Philadelphia.
As the nation prepares for this momentous celebration, officials urge citizens to reflect on the sacrifices made during the American Revolution, which began on April 19, 1775, and culminated in the formal recognition of independence in 1783.
With anticipation building, the events planned for the anniversary promise to engage and unite communities, reminding all Americans of their shared history and the ideals of freedom and independence.
Stay tuned for more updates as communities finalize their plans for this historic commemoration!