Experience Fayetteville has launched a community-wide effort to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary, with events and programming planned across Fayetteville throughout 2026.
Referred to as “A250,” the initiative is part of a national commemoration of the country’s founding. Locally, the focus is on creating ways for residents and visitors to engage with the milestone, whether through events, storytelling or partnerships that reflect the character of the city, according to the city’s tourism arm.
The effort will include development of the A250 brand, a dedicated website and ongoing marketing and communications. The organization is also working with local partners by providing toolkits, creative assets and support for events tied to the anniversary.
The A250 website will serve as the central place for event listings, updates and ways to get involved. Community members are encouraged to submit events and contribute ideas as the calendar continues to take shape.
Several events are already on the schedule. There was a quilt-making gathering on April 19 at the Walker-Stone House connecting Fayetteville to a national project involving Washington counties across the country. “Warbird Weekend: 250” will bring historic aircraft, living history demonstrations and World War II-era programming to Drake Field May 30-31. Later in the year, Fayetteville Music Week and other community-led events will continue the celebration.
Organizers are also planning a series of events around early July, anchored by July 2, the date the Continental Congress voted for independence in 1776. Local programming will include a community concert and proclamation at Gulley Park on July 2, followed by an America’s 250th celebration on July 3 and the Fayetteville Farmers Market on July 4.
To encourage participation, Experience Fayetteville will offer community incentive grants for organizations planning A250-related events. The funding is intended to support new ideas, expand existing programming and help create experiences that draw visitors and support local businesses.
“What makes this effort special is that it truly belongs to the community,” said Ryan Hauck, executive director of Experience Fayetteville. “Fayetteville has always been a place where people show up, create and connect. America’s 250th gives us a platform to celebrate that energy while honoring the history that shaped who we are today.”
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