Celebrate America's 250th Birthday in Green Country

In 2026, the United States celebrates a milestone 250 years in the making. Known as the Semiquincentennial, America's 250th birthday commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Learn the story of America's growth, innovation and cultural heritage throughout Green Country.

From historic villages and museums to iconic celebrations, Green Country offers a variety of ways to connect with the people, places and events that helped shape the nation over the last two and a half centuries.

Step Back in Time

Visitors looking to experience history firsthand can begin at Har-Ber Village Museum in Grove. Situated along the shores of Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, the museum features nearly 50 historic structures and thousands of artifacts that showcase American life in the 1800s. Strolling through the village offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of early settlers who helped build the nation during the 19th century.

In Claremore, stop by to see the new American Revolution exhibit the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum. Known colloquially as “The Gun Museum,” this facility houses one of the largest privately-held firearms collections in the world, as well as military memorabilia, historical artifacts and exhibits that explore America's frontier heritage. The museum's collections provide a unique perspective on the people and events that influenced the country's development throughout its history.

History enthusiasts can also explore Fort Gibson Historic Site, one of the most significant military outposts in early Oklahoma and the western frontier. Established in 1824, the fort played an important role in westward expansion, military operations and the relocation of Native American tribes to Indian Territory. Visitors can tour restored buildings, exhibits and grounds that tell the story of life on the frontier.

Nearby, Fort Gibson National Cemetery serves as a solemn reminder of the region's military heritage, honoring veterans from conflicts spanning nearly two centuries. Together, the sites offer insight into the people, events and sacrifices that helped shape the American experience.

Join the Celebration

Communities throughout Green Country will mark America's 250th birthday with festivals, fireworks and patriotic celebrations.

June 24:
One of the region's signature observances is the America 250 Flag-Raising Ceremony in Jenks on June 24. The event brings together residents, community leaders and local organizations to mark the beginning of the nation's semiquincentennial celebrations with a flag raising, light refreshments and brass quintet played by members of the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. 

June 26:
The Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore is marking America's 250th anniversary with the debut of its new Rogers and the Republic exhibit, which explores Will Rogers' views on politics, public service and American ideals. The celebration includes a cannon salute, performances by a drummer boy and fife player, a Thomas Jefferson reenactor, and an opportunity to view photos, quotes and portraits of the five U.S. presidents Rogers knew personally. Guests can also enjoy a screening of the Will Rogers classic film "A Connecticut Yankee" following the opening festivities.

July 3-4: 
A unique America 250 celebration is also taking place in Hominy, where the Field Printing Museum will invite visitors to help print collectible copies of the Declaration of Independence on a restored 1906 Chandler & Price letterpress. This free event gives participants a hands-on opportunity to connect with the nation's founding document while learning about Mary Katherine Goddard, the Baltimore printer whose name appeared on the 1777 broadside version of the Declaration. The first 250 copies produced as part of "Project 250" will be individually numbered, creating a special keepsake commemorating America's 250th birthday.

July 4:
Come celebrate the founding of the United States of America with Har-Ber Village Museum in Grove. The 250 Birth of America Celebration welcomes out all ages to enjoy American crafts, music and other exciting programming! While you're there, be sure to explore the entire recreated pioneer era village. The charming log structures, which are built to resemble structures like a bank, a doctor's office and a chapel, among others, are filled with antiques and artifacts that would have been found in a real 19th-century settlement. 

Whether you're exploring a historic village, discovering a museum collection or enjoying a hometown fireworks display, Green Country offers countless opportunities to celebrate 250 years of American history while creating new memories for generations to come. Discover more Independence Day celebrations below.