Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary this Fourth of July

Events across the MNHS network will mark America’s semiquincentennial

For immediate release

Dated: July 1, 2026

Contacts:

ST. PAUL, Minn (July 1, 2026) – This kind of anniversary only comes around every quarter-millennium! As America marks its 250th birthday, the Minnesota Historical Society’s network of sites will host events, programs, and exhibits to commemorate and educate.

Sharing the Spirit of America: Nationwide Reading of the Declaration of Independence, July 8
Minnesota State Capitol, St. Paul
Minnesota will join a national initiative as citizens across all 50 states, territories, and the District of Columbia unite to read the Declaration of Independence, 250 years after its first reading on July 8, 1776. This event is hosted by the Governor’s Committee for Minnesota America 250 in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society.

Spotlight on Minnesota’s Constitutions, Through July 12, 2026
Minnesota History Center, St. Paul
This Spotlight Gallery exhibit features two nearly identical original copies of the state constitution—one signed by Republicans, the other signed by Democrats—who refused to sign a single document. The two versions were voted on and approved by Minnesota voters in 1857 prior to Minnesota’s statehood on May 11, 1858.

Many Voices, Many Stories, One Place, Ongoing
Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul
The story of the First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry Regiment is expanding at Historic Fort Snelling. The Minnesota First was the first body of troops raised by the state for Civil War service, and related items from the MNHS collections are now on display.

Independence Day at Historic Fort Snelling, July 4, 2026
Historic Fort Snelling, St. Paul
Join us for a day filled with historic demonstrations, a military timeline, musical performances from the Fife & Drum Corps, and much more!

Old Fashioned Fourth of July, July 4, 2026
Oliver Kelley Farm, Elk River
Enjoy a day filled with 19th-century games, picnicking, and patriotic speeches on the farm to celebrate this Fourth of July. Period costumes are strongly encouraged!

About the Minnesota Historical Society
The Minnesota Historical Society is a non-profit educational and cultural institution established in 1849. MNHS collects, preserves and tells the story of Minnesota’s past through museum exhibits, libraries and collections, historic sites, educational programs, and book publishing. Using the power of history to transform lives, MNHS preserves our past, shares our state’s stories, and connects people with history.