Texas America250

Hands-On History: America 250 Drop-In
2016-06-15 11:00 - 2026-06-19 14:00 (America/Chicago) | National Museum of the Pacific War, 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX, 78624, United States
Join the National Museum of the Pacific War this summer for Lead the Way: Civic Season Drop-In, a hands-on family program exploring how leadership shaped the Pacific War and how it continues to shape our civic life today. Designed for learners of all ages, this come-and-go experience invites families to jump into creative activities that connect past decisions to the choices we make as citizens and leaders today. Lead the Way: Civic Season Drop-In is part of the national Civic Season movement, empowering families to explore history, reflect on values, and consider their role in shaping the future. No registration required—just stop by and join the experience at your own pace.

Texas America250 Commission Meeting
2025-01-09 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-04-10 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-06-12 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-07-10 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-09 11:00 - 12:00 UTC | The Bullock Museum, 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
Participate in public open meetings of the Texas America250 Commission virtually through Zoom or in person at the Bullock Museum in Austin, Texas.

Virtual meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86569955969?pwd=[REDACTED]

Texas America250 Commission Meeting
2025-02-13 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-03-13 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-05-08 11:00 - 12:00 UTC | TX

Family Make ‘N’ Take | Paul Revere’s Ride
2025-04-12 12:00 - 16:00 UTC | Bastrop Museum & Visitor Center, 904 Main Street, Bastrop, TX, 78602, United States
“One if by land, two if by sea!” Step into history with April’s Make ‘N’ Take activity and craft your own revolutionary lantern to commemorate Paul Revere’s epic ride in 1775.
This event is free with museum admission or membership.
Perfect for the whole family!

Two Lights for Tomorrow | Paul Revere’s Ride Commemoration
2025-04-12 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Bastrop Museum & Visitor Center, 904 Main Street, Bastrop, TX, 78602, United States
Celebrate the event that sparked the American Revolution and the spirit that still ignites us today!
On April 12th, commemorate the night that changed history by taking part in a community commemoration of Paul Revere’s historic ride. Each business in downtown Bastrop will be given a lantern symbolizing the lanterns that Revere saw from the Old North Church steeple that spurred him on to warn his fellow countrymen that the Redcoats were coming! There will be other revolutionary activities, including a reading of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s legendary poem, Paul Revere’s Ride. This immersive event will transport you back to that pivotal night in 1775, reminding us all of the courage and determination that shaped our nation. All Bastropians can participate during the event by bringing their own lanterns to light up Bastrop with the revolutionary spirit!
Don’t miss the revolution – mark your calendars and make plans to be there! Let’s celebrate our shared history and the beginning of a new chapter as we look forward to America’s 250th anniversary.

Life, Liberty, and Bexar County: America 250 Teacher Development Workshop
2025-06-10 09:00 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX, 78209, United States
This teacher workshop is specifically designed for 4th and 7th grade social studies teachers. It will explore Spain’s role in the American Revolution and more specifically historic Bexar County’s role.

250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army Grand Military Parade and Celebration
2025-06-14 18:30 - 21:30 (America/Chicago) | Washington Monument Grounds, Constitution Ave NW between 15th Street and 23rd Street., Washington, D.C., DC, 20002, United States
The United States of America to Honor the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army with a Grand Military Parade and Celebration in Washington, D.C.
On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress voted to establish the Continental Army. This action marked the creation of America’s first national military force, more than a year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
On June 14, 2025–the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday–the nation will honor its legacy with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C. President Donald J. Trump will join veterans, active-duty troops, wounded warriors, Gold Star Families, and Patriotic Americans from across the country to celebrate our heroes who have protected our country through strength and selflessness. Tickets for the Parade and Celebration are available through America250’s event registration portal:
https://events.america250.org/events/250th-anniversary-of-the-us-army-grand-military-parade-and-celebration
The parade will take place on Constitution Ave NW between 15th Street and 23rd Street.
Timeline of Events:
8:00 AM: Guest Entry for Army Fitness Competition and Festival
2:00 PM: Guest Entry
6:30 PM: Parade & Celebration Begins
9:30 PM: Event Concludes
Due to security screening requirements, please plan to arrive early.

Juneteenth Celebration at the Neill-Cochran House Museum
2025-06-22 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel Street, Austin, TX, 78705, United States
The Neill-Cochran House Museum invites you to celebrate Juneteenth at a place that brings Austin history to life. Join us for a day of reflection, celebration, and community as we commemorate emancipation and the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom and the ongoing journey towards equality. Join a guided tour of Austin’s last intact slave dwelling. Meet the Buffalo Soldiers and learn about their contributions to American history. See the Rhea Rose (Phoenix Art Studio) art pop-up and the temporary exhibition, The Floating World by Daryl Howard, on display inside the Museum. View Fidencio Duran’s interior mural, Give Us This Day, recently installed at the Museum. Enjoy free barbecue lunch from James Beard award nominated Damien Brockway (while it lasts). Join a family- friendly craft activity making fans. Then finish the day with a glorious gospel performance by Christopher D. Spivey & Co. This event is free and open to the public, and includes lunch and refreshments. Stop by anytime 12:00pm – 4:00pm to join the day’s activities.
Event Schedule (12:00pm – 4:00pm)
12:00 – 2:30 – Guided tours of the Slave Quarters, Barbecue Lunch from Distant Relatives (until we run out!), Rhea Rose Art Pop-Up, Meet the Buffalo Soldiers, Family-friendly games and crafts
2:30 – 3:00 – Words of Welcome
3:00 – 4:00 – Gospel Music Performance by Christopher D. Spivey & Co.

Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Presents: Benjamin Foulois Living History
2025-07-04 12:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Lone Star Flight Museum, 11551 Aerospace Ave., Houston, 77034, United States
Aviation has been a part of our nation since its founding when hot air balloons were celebrated by George Washington. In Texas, the First Aero Squadron was established in July 1915. The Texas Aviation Hall of Fame Presents Capt. Benjamin Foulois, commander and pilot, in a Living History presentation about the U.S. Army’s first aviation corps. Friday, July 4, 2025 at Noon and again at 3:00 pm. Perfect for all ages.
More details at lonestarflight.org.
General Admission: Adults (18-64) – $18 Youth (12-17) – $15 Child (5-11) – $12 Seniors (65+) – $15 Children (4 & under) – FREE Museum Members – FREE

Lakewood 4th of July Block Party & Fireworks
2025-07-04 18:00 - 22:30 (America/Chicago) | Historic Lakewood Shops, 1900 Abrams Pkwy, Dallas, TX, 75214, United States
Lakewood 4th of July Celebration July 4, 2025 & 2026 | 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Historic Lakewood Shops | Dallas, TX
Free Admission | Family-Friendly | Fireworks Viewing
Each year on Independence Day, the Lakewood neighborhood gathers to celebrate community, patriotism, and the spectacular fireworks display from Lakewood Country Club. This beloved annual tradition is free to attend and welcomes families, friends, and neighbors for an evening of fun, food, and festivities.
🎶 Live Music Enjoy a full lineup of live music performances from local bands and artists.
🍔 Food & Drinks Savor delicious eats from neighborhood restaurants and food trucks, with a wide selection of beverages — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic — available on-site.
🛍️ Artisan Marketplace Shop unique goods from local artists, makers, and small businesses.
🏙️ Community Booths Visit booths featuring neighborhood businesses and non-profit organizations doing great work in our area.
🎆 Best Fireworks View in Town The event takes place in the parking lot of the Historic Lakewood Shops, directly across from Lakewood Country Club — the perfect spot to catch the full fireworks display.
🚓 Giving Back A portion of event proceeds will benefit local first responders.
📅 Looking Ahead to 2026 Next year’s celebration will be even bigger as part of America250, the nationwide 250th anniversary of the United States. Special programming and patriotic tributes will make 2026 a milestone event not to miss. 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM | Parking Available | Bring your lawn chairs and blankets | All are welcome

NCHM Sunday Fundays
2025-07-06 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel Street, Austin, TX, 78705, United States
One Sunday out of the month, the Neill-Cochran House Museum opens its doors to feature hands-on activities, scavenger hunts, and self-paced tours. From July 2025 through June 2026, the NCHM will focus Sunday Fundays on topics and crafts connected to America 250, from patriotic tie dyeing in July 2025 through the creation of hand-made flags in June 2026.
Admission: $10 adult, $8 students/seniors, free to active military and their families and to children 12 and younger
Upcoming Sunday Fundays:
August 3, 2025 – Corn Husk Dolls
September 7, 2025 – Wood Block Prints
October 12, 2025 – Pinch Pots
November 16, 2025 – Pomanders
December 14, 2025 – Holiday Ornaments
January 11, 2026 – Recycling with Holiday Cards
February 8, 2026 – Valentines for Vets
March 8, 2026 – Campaign Buttons
April 12, 2026 – Paper Making
May 10, 2026 – Letter Press Printing
June 14, 2026 – Flag Day

DAR250 Patriot Marker Dedication
2025-07-12 10:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Wilson County Courthouse, 1420 3rd Street, Floresville, 78114, United States
Susanna Dickinson Chapter NSDAR and Wilson County Historical Commission will unveil and dedicate a DAR250 Patriot Marker recognizing and honoring the Spanish Texas patriots who once called home the lands that make up present-day Wilson County.

Celebrate Houston's 189th Birthday
2025-08-23 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park, 1100 Bagby Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Happy Birthday Houston!
The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park and Mister McKinney of Mister McKinney’s Historic Houston celebrates Houston’s 189th Birthday on Saturday, August 23, 2025, with free activities in the afternoon and a 250th America Anniversary theme.

Spain and the Birth of American Democracy | A History Symposium
2025-09-19 16:30 - 2025-09-20 19:00 (America/New_York) | Constitution Hall, 1776 D Street NW, Washington, D.C., DC, 20006, United States
This symposium about Spain’s contributions to the American Revolution will be held Friday, September 19 in the afternoon and all day on Saturday, September 20, 2025, in DAR Constitution Hall. All events including academic lectures and other activities will be free and open to the public with pre-registration required. Please view the most up to date agenda on this page and find more details on www.dar.org and www.queensofiaspanishinstitute.org.
The symposium is presented by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute (QSSI), and the Fundación Ramón Areces (FRA) with support from the Cultural Office of the Embassy of Spain in the United States. This will be the second symposium in QSSI’s America&Spain250 initiative and a cornerstone event of DAR’s America250 programming to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.

America 250: Texas in the Nation's Service (Lecture Series)
2025-09-28 14:30 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel Street, Austin, TX, 78705, United States
The NCHM’s Modern Times speaker series this year is dedicated to commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the nation. The lectures over the course of the year will show how the people and events of Texas have helped to shape the United States more broadly.
Modern Times – Gálvez and the American Patriots | September 28, 2025

John Espinosa representing the Order of the Granaderos y Damas de Gálvez presents the story of General Bernardo de Gálvez, a pivotal yet underrecognized figure of the American Revolution.

$10 general admission, $5 students, free to members

Forging Frontiers: Exploring Bexar County's Spanish Colonial Legacy
2025-10-04 10:00 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | J. E. and L. E. Mabee Library, 4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX, 78209, United States
On October 4, the NPS, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (SAAN) will be presenting at “Forging Frontiers: Exploring Bexar County’s Spanish Colonial Legacy” – a Bexar Heritage America250 event exploring Bexar County, Texas’ Spanish Colonial Legacy 1718-1775. SAAN protects, preserves, restores, and interprets four Spanish Colonial missions and their associated cultural landscape features established along the upper San Antonio River. The symposium is free and open to the public and hosted by Bexar Heritage in partnership with the Atacosta County Historical Commission, Bexar County Historical Commission, the University of Incarnate Word, and the Wilson County Historical Commission.

Guardians of the Frontier: The U.S. Army in Texas 1845-1895
2025-10-09 08:00 - 2026-02-08 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Frontier Texas, 625 N. 1st Street, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
As the U.S. Army celebrates its 250th year, this exhibit explores the 50-year presence of the U.S. Army in Texas from the time of annexation in 1845 through the end of the Indian Wars in 1895. It traces the Army’s role in securing the frontier, building forts, engaging in conflict, and shaping the cultural and physical landscape of Texas.

Eisenhower Birthday Celebration
2025-10-11 09:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site, 609 S. Lamar, Denison, TX, 75020, United States
Join us in celebrating Eisenhower’s 135th birthday! The day will begin at the Eisenhower Monument at 9AM for a brick dedication. We will then be at the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site for free tours and more! Come by and help us make this a bash for the ages and eat cake!

Memories of Monument Hill: A Lantern-Led Theatrical Experience
2025-10-24 17:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Kreische Brewery State Historic Site, 414 TX-92 Spur, La Grange, TX, 78945, United States
Experience a lantern-led tour of our historic grounds as you witness one of the most captivating episodes in Texas history brought to life! Hear the story of Dawson and Mier Expeditions as you’ve never heard it before. Walk our historic trails at night and experience the turbulent times of the Republic of Texas era through six theatrical scenes. Gather around the campfire to enjoy Spooky Stories before or after your tour. These Lantern Tours are a nighttime, guided walk along our bluff trail. The length of the tour is approximately one hour.
Showtimes: 5:30*, 6:40, 7:00, 7:20, 7:40, 8:00

A Tale of Two Artists: An Exhibit of the Works of Tia Magoffin Glasgow and Leola Warnock Freeman
2025-10-25 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana Ave., El Paso, TX, 79902, United States
A Tale of Two Artists: An Exhibit of the Works of Tia Magoffin Glasgow and Leola Warnock Freeman Exhibit Opening will be held on October 25, 2025, at the International Museum of Art, located at 1211 Montana Ave. in El Paso,from 1 – 4 p.m. Remarks will be given at 2 p.m. Octavia “Tia” Magoffin Glasgow and Leola Warnock Freeman began their journey as artists together, but chose different paths. Tia studied painting in Europe, then became an art teacher. Leola married well-known artists, started a family, and sold her art to support them. Tia’s work was expressive, created for personal meaning, not money. Leola developed a bold, recognizable style that made her art stand out and sell. Two artists. Two paths. Join us and decide which path would you choose?

Memories of Monument Hill: A Lantern-Led Theatrical Experience
2025-10-25 17:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Kreische Brewery State Historic Site, 414 TX-92 Spur, La Grange, TX, 78945, United States
Experience a lantern-led tour of our historic grounds as you witness one of the most captivating episodes in Texas history brought to life! Hear the story of Dawson and Mier Expeditions as you’ve never heard it before. Walk our historic trails at night and experience the turbulent times of the Republic of Texas era through six theatrical scenes. Gather around the campfire to enjoy Spooky Stories before or after your tour. These Lantern Tours are a nighttime, guided walk along our bluff trail. The length of the tour is approximately one hour. This performance is in collaboration with the Fayette County Community Theatre. Ticket sales benefit education, preservation, and community involvement.
Showtimes: 5:30*, 6:40, 7:00, 7:20, 7:40, 8:00

America 250: Texas in the Nation's Service (Lecture Series)
2025-11-02 14:30 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel Street, Austin, TX, 78705, United States
The NCHM’s Modern Times speaker series this year is dedicated to commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the nation. The lectures over the course of the year will show how the people and events of Texas have helped to shape the United States more broadly.
Modern Times – NASA and Texas presented by Karen Kincaid Brady | November 2, 2025
$10 general admission, $5 students, free to members

Red, White, & Stew
2025-11-08 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Kreische Brewery State Historic Site, 414 TX-92 Spur, La Grange, TX, 78945, United States
What’s cooking in the Kreische kitchen? In celebration of the upcoming America 250, join us for tasty demonstrations celebrating America’s unique and multicultural food history from 19th-century Fayette County. This month’s program will focus on a German-Texas inspired menu, including sausage inthe smokehouse, hearty German stew, and a home-baked treat made on our wood-burning stove. Chat with our living history interpreters, tour the house, and take in all the delicious smells.

Grand Reopening at Washington-on-the-Brazos
2025-11-08 10:00 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, 23400 Park Rd 12, Washington, TX, 77880, United States
Join us on Saturday, November 8 for our Grand Reopening Event! The event begins at 10am at the Visitor Center with a special ribbon cutting. Afterwards, the program “Citizens of the Republic” will take place until 4:30 at the newly recreated Washington Townsite Experience. This program will feature interactive and engaging living history programs in a choose your own adventure format! Scheduled historical scenes will be performed at Independence Hall, and at newly created buildings Sam Houston’s President’s Office, and the Congress Hall at Hatfield’s Exchange. Visitors will also be able to tour the newly renovated Star of the Republic Museum and Visitors Center. Food trucks will be on site providing food for visitors throughout the day. You won’t want to miss this once in a generation event!
