DE250 is one of many state organizations scheduling and planning events for our country’s 250th birthday, its semi quincentennial. (Semi, meaning half, and quincentennial, 500 years.) The state of Delaware is of course older than 250 years old, but the celebration marks the upcoming anniversary of Independence Day in 2026.
Events nationwide are being planned, and Delaware has plenty planned for celebrating our heritage.
Delaware has formed a steering committee for statewide events, consisting of representatives of historical societies, museums, state parks and cultural organizations. Margaret Hughes was hired in 2023 by DE250 and has already been planning dozens of celebrations. There’s no need to wait for next year’s 4th of July.
Closer to home, Historic Lewes in collaboration with the City of Lewes already has two April 2025 kickoff events scheduled. Andrew Lyter, Historic Lewes executive director, serves on the steering committee, and is busy spreading the word to encourage participation.
In recognition of what many consider the symbolic beginning of the road to American Independence, Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, DE250 is planning “Two Lights for Tomorrow.” In the spirit of the 250th anniversary of his famous ride through the Massachusetts countryside to warn of pending conflict, Delaware residents are asked to be our own “beacons of light,” by placing two lights in their windows on April 18 and 19.
Then, on the evening of Saturday, April 19, the City of Lewes is sponsoring a bonfire on Savannah Beach from 4:00 – 6:00 pm.
Although the general theme of events celebrates the legacy of America’s journey to independence, there are several organizations represented that will also explore other ways to mark Delaware’s historical significance. For example, there are diverse steering committee members, including the Delaware Nanticoke Tribe, “Homecoming 250” Naval Marine Corps, Delaware Humanities, and Delaware Hispanic Commission, to name a few. Grants for museums and civic organizations are available to assist them in the development of educational programming for the public.
DE250’s Festival of Freedoms is a collaboration of towns and other organizations throughout the state to address each unique role in Delaware’s history. An example of an event will be several Juneteenth celebrations, to highlight Delaware’s historic quest for freedom, and educate the public with adequate historical perspective.
In June 2025 and 2026, “Mock Continental Congress” trials by middle and high school students will take place in the state capitol. The purpose is for students to receive immersive experience in our forefathers’ parliamentary process.
Delaware Scene 250’s website will have a comprehensive list of statewide events throughout the celebration period.
For more information on local events, Historic Lewes will also post upcoming events.
For general information about the entire nation’s semi quincentennial, visit America250.
By Bridget Fitzpatrick
