America 250 Colorado 150: You’re a part of something BIG

by | Mar 21, 2026 | Tidbits

In 2026, United States of America is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—our Semiquincentennial.

Also in 2026, Colorado is celebrating the 150th anniversary of entering the Union—our Sesquicentennial.

Together these events make a commemoration like none other in the nation—Colorado’s Sesquisemiquincentennial. That’s a very big word for a very big celebration!

In recognition of Colorado’s legacy as the only state founded on our nation’s 100th birthday in 1876, The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission launched in January 2025. “This is a unique moment in history for our state.” Governor Jared Polis noted in his remarks. “We are commemorating 150 years of our great state while our country celebrates 250 years as a nation.” Polis continued, “Colorado is the incredible place we know and love because of every person who calls it home; I encourage everyone to get involved and share the experiences that have shaped their journey in our beautiful state.” Established by Governor Polis and the Colorado General Assembly, and housed at History Colorado museum, the Commission brings together leaders from across the state to guide this historic milestone.

From that launch through the end of 2026, the Commission invites all Coloradans to reflect on our shared history and imagine the future through festivities, exhibits, educational programs and events that embody the character and communities of Colorado and the United States.

To honor our shared history and celebrate this Colorado milestone, the Commission developed 12 signature initiatives:

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×         Historic Preservation

×         Statewide Storytelling

×         Educational Film Series

×         Colorado Statehood Online Exhibit

×         Publications on Colorado History

×         American History Exhibition

 ×         Print-on-Demand Exhibition

×         Historic Markers

×         14er Climb (July 4th)

×         Digital Colorado Passport

×         Drone Shows

×         Freedom Plane

In addition to the statewide initiatives, local historic societies and historians – including the Highlands Ranch Historical Society – are participating in the America 250 – Colorado 150 celebrations. Focusing on the shared themes of Celebrate – Educate – Preserve, organizations are spreading the word about the Sesquisemiquincentennial through a variety of activities in their communities over the coming months.

We invite YOU to be a part of something BIG throughout the year. Join as at one of the monthly Highlands Ranch Historical Society programs (https://thehrhs.org/events/). Or, explore all of the 250/150 events at https://www.colorado.com/am250-co150-events.

You can learn more about the Commission and the Sesquisemiquincentennial celebration at their official website: https://www.historycolorado.org/colorado-150. Explore more about the national celebration here: https://america250.org/.

Author: Marian Robinson March 2026