Freedom 250

Celebrating America's 250th Birthday

As America approaches 250 years since its founding, the U.S. Department of Education is proud to join with the President, White House Task Force 250, Freedom 250, and America250 Commission to plan activities to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence.

Over the next year, initiatives nationwide will engage students, educators, and communities in conversations about liberty, citizenship, and America’s enduring values. We have a unique opportunity to encourage our fellow citizens and ensure every young American understands the beauty of our nation and is equipped with the civic knowledge required to meaningfully contribute to its future.

Learn more about Secretary McMahon’s Freedom 250 initiatives

The Presidential 1776 Award

The Presidential 1776 Award is a national student competition recognizing excellence in American founding history. Open to high schoolers, it includes a first round online exam, regional semifinals, and a nationally broadcast final "Civics Bee" in Washington, D.C. Winners receive scholarships up to $150,000, celebrating knowledge of the Founders, Constitution, and Revolutionary War.

Competition website See the official rules

View competition flyer Host a test session

View accessibility policy

History Rocks: Trail to Independence Tour

The History Rocks: Trail to Independence Tour will visit all 50 States, in the approximate order in which they joined the Union, and feature the Secretary of Education, other senior cabinet officials, governors, state legislators, local leaders, and high-profile celebrities exploring American history at one K-12 school in each state, with side events scheduled as appropriate.

Follow us on the road!

Capitol dome with "History Rocks" banner

The America 250 Civics Education Coalition

The America 250 Civics Education Coalition comprises over 50 organizations committed to advancing civic education. Living its motto ("Know America. Love America."), coalition members will host a number of events throughout 2026, including The Fundamental Liberties College Lecture Tour, inspiring citizens to reflect on America’s story, deepen their understanding of civic responsibility, and reinforce the shared values that unite us as one nation.

Join or learn more about the Coalition

Freedom 250

Freedom 250 is the national, non-partisan organization leading the celebration of our Nation’s 250th birthday. Working together with the White House Task Force 250, federal agencies, and the Commission, Freedom 250 serves as the official public-private partnership that connects, aligns, and amplifies national and local efforts to deliver the defining presidential moments of this anniversary year.

More Freedom 250 events