This guide features America 250 events in North Carolina, including 4th of July events, Revolutionary War reenactments, and more!
America 250 is a celebration of our 250 years as an independent nation, featuring a long slate of events across the United States. North Carolina was a major player before and during the American fight for independence, as shown by the events below.
America 250 events in North Carolina range from statewide celebrations to local history programs. You can explore events by date, theme, or region below.
- America 250 Events Calendar
- 4th of July Events
- Black History Events
- Major Revolutionary War Reenactments
- Virtual Events
- Events in Western NC
- Events in Central NC
- Events in Eastern NC
Tip: Use your browser’s find tool or the table of contents above to jump to your region.
Read More: The Revolutionary War in North Carolina (and 13 Places to Learn About It!)
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America 250 events in and around New Bern
As one of North Carolina’s oldest cities and its first capital, New Bern makes a natural home base for exploring America 250 events across Eastern North Carolina. From Tryon Palace to regional festivals, air shows, and heritage celebrations, these events pair easily with a visit to New Bern.
- Discover Tryon Palace: Caswell’s Capital Tour (February 5, 2026)
- Hallowed Ground Lantern Tour (March 19-21, 2026)
- Heritage Homes Tour (May 1-2, 2026)
- Cherry Point Air Show (May 9-10, 2026)
- Juneteenth (June 20, 2026)
- MumFest (October 10-11, 2026)
- Havelock Chili Festival (October 17, 2026)
- Ghost Walk in New Bern (October 22-24, 2026)
- Trail to Tryon Holiday Half, 10K, and 5K (December 5, 2026)
Plan your America 250 trip: Explore places to stay, eat, and explore in New Bern.
Learn MoreAmerica 250 Events Calendar
If you want to know what’s happening right now, check out our America 250 events calendar! Also, if you know about an event in North Carolina that we’ve missed, please let us know by email or by submitting your event here.
February 2026
It’s Elementary: America 250 Fun and Games
The American Origin Myth: Why We Remember the Revolution at the North Carolina History Center
Tea Time in the Historical Park
Read More: The NC Tripping Events Calendar
4th of July America 250 Events in NC
4th of July events span the entire state, so we’ll feature them here before sharing events in specific regions.
- 2026 NC 4th of July Festival: Celebrating 250 Years of Independence in Southport (June 28-July 4, 2026)
- The Frank Love Orchestra in Newton (July 3, 2026)
- Independence Day Celebration at Old Salem (July 4, 2026)
- 4th of July Celebration at the State Capitol in Raleigh (July 4, 2026)
- City of Wilmington 4th of July Celebration (July 4, 2026 )
- Independence Day Celebration at Historic Halifax (July 4, 2026)
- Red, White, and Blue Bash in Sanford (July 4, 2026)
- Fourth of July Symphony Pops Concert in Wilmington (July 4, 2026)
Read More: 4th of July Events in NC from the Mountains to the Sea
Black History Month America 250 Events in NC
Black History Month is a month-long celebration of the achievements, contributions, and lived experiences of Black Americans, officially commemorated each February.
In North Carolina, America 250 events highlight Black voices and stories that shaped the state before, during, and after the American Revolution. Some events begin in late January as an early kickoff to the month.
- The History of School Segregation and Desegregation in Gaston County: A Panel Discussion at the Gaston County Library Main Branch (January 24, 2026)
- 25th Annual African American Cultural Celebration at the NC Museum of Art in Raleigh (January 31, 2026)
- Black History Tours at the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) at Old Salem Museums & Gardens in Winston-Salem (February 7, 14, 21, and 28)
- Montford Point Marines of High Point (February 21, 2026)
- Black His/Her-Story Month Carnival in Wilmington (February 21, 2026)
- Thomas Peters: Fighting the Other Revolution (February 22, 2026)
- Virtual Events
- Bound by Law: Limits to Emancipation During the Revolution (February 4, 2026)
Major Revolutionary War Reenactments
These Revolutionary War reenactments are especially meaningful in 2026, even when the original events did not take place in 1776.
- 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge (part of the First in Freedom Festival, February 26-28, 2026)
- Battle of Alamance Reenactment: 255th Anniversary Commemoration (May 16, 2026)
- Battle of Guilford Courthouse Reenactment (TBD)
- Peter Francisco 250 (March 14, 2026)
- Battle of the Waxhaws: American Revolution Weekend (June 5-7, 2026)
Read More: The Most Interesting Historic Towns in North Carolina (Important Places for Your Next Adventure!)
Virtual America 250 Events and Online Programs in NC
These virtual America 250 events can be enjoyed from your nearest screen. Registration may be required in advance, so please confirm beforehand.
- Bound by Law: Limits to Emancipation During the Revolution (Webinar on February 4, 2026)
- Revolutionary Ideals Webinar Series for Teachers (March 30, 2026-February 17, 2027)
- Celebrating Our Colonial Roots Online Plant Sale (April 17-24, 2026)
America 250 NC Virtual Book Club Events
Every two months, the America 250 NC Virtual Book Club focuses on one book, and here’s a quick breakdown of the schedule:
- October 29, 2025 – King’s Mountain by Sharyn McCrumb
- December 17, 2025 – The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash
- February 25, 2026 – Crow by Barbara Wright (Join Meeting)
- April 29, 2026 – Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier (Join Meeting)
- June 17, 2026 – Tobacco Wives by Adele Myers (Join Meeting)
America 250 Events in Western NC
These America 250 events in Western NC honor specific Revolutionary War-era events and people.
Note: Advance registration may be required. Please check the official website for each America 250 event in Western North Carolina.
“Our Story” The History of Caldwell County
Event Date: January 26, 2026
Website
The history of Caldwell County will be told through “Our Story,” a photo exhibit of significant events and moments that shaped the area.
Fifth Annual Burning of the Baggage in Lincolnton*
Event Date: February 7, 2026
Website
At this free event, you’ll learn about British General Cornwallis’ burning of his baggage. In an ill-fated attempt to speed up troop movement and recapture Redcoats lost during a previous battle (and potentially capture General Nathaniel Greene), Cornwallis ordered all his troops to burn any possessions they didn’t need.
Spoiler Alert: This plan didn’t work, as the captured soldiers had been relocated to a prisoner of war camp, and General Greene evaded capture.
An Evening with Mr. Jefferson with Tom Pitz in Jefferson
Event Date: February 20, 2026
Website
Performing as Thomas Jefferson since 1987, Tom Pitz will reprise his role as our third President and author of the Declaration of Independence.
Pitz, I mean Jefferson, will detail his life in first person at the Museum of Ashe County History in Jefferson—a fitting setting.
America 250 Events in Alexander County
Multiple history lectures are being held in Taylorsville and elsewhere in Alexander County as part of America 250, including:
- History Lecture with Lee Sharpe and Rebecca Dula (February 21, 2026)
- History Lecture with Chuck Ketchie (March 7, 2026)
- Opening Reception for Patriotic Art Contest in Hiddenite (May 7, 2026): Patriotic Art will be on display from May 7-21, 2026.
- Charters of Freedom Dedication in Taylorsville (May 15, 2026)
- America 250 at the Rock at Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area (May 29, 2026)
- History Lecture with J.R. Gorham (June 13, 2026)
- Alexander County Independence Celebration (July 18, 2026)
- Veteran’s Breakfast at Hiddenite Arts’ Educational Complex (November 7, 2026)
- Honoring Veterans: Lecture & Patriotic Musical (November 14, 2026)
- National Wreaths Across America Day in Taylorsville (December 12, 2026)
“Our American Story” at Western Carolina University
Event Date: April 11, 2026
Website
WCU’s Pinnacle String Ensemble will commemorate “Our American Story” with works by George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein, and other renowned composers.
Read More: Things to Do in Sylva
America 250 Events in Central NC
We’ve highlighted several Revolutionary War reenactments in central North Carolina, but many more America 250 events are happening across the state.
Note: Advance registration may be required. Please check the official website for each America 250 event in Central North Carolina.
Limits of Freedom at Museum and Archives of Rockingham County
Event Dates: January 8-31, 2026
Event Website
A traveling exhibit stopped at the Museum and Archives of Rockingham County in Reidsville. Limits of Freedom features stories about slavery, but also Black soldiers in the American Revolution, and Native Americans who were impacted by the war.
Foundational Documents Talks in Hillsborough
Starting in January, the Orange County Historical Museum is hosting a series of four talks on foundational documents that influenced our fight for independence.
- The Declaration of Independence (January 24, 2026)
- Magna Carta and the British Tradition (January 31, 2026)
- The Articles of Confederation (February 7, 2026)
- The Constitution (February 14, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Hillsborough
Tree of Valor in Burlington
Event Date: January 25, 2026
Website
The Tree of Valor in Burlington will kick off a display of over 100 evergreen trees covered in photos of our nation’s heroes, which will be lit all at once during their America 250 kickoff event. The event will also feature a warrior’s salute, along with uplifting, heartfelt music by Letters From Home.
Chatham County America 250 Events
Multiple America 250 events are being held in Chatham County, starting with a monthly film series in Goldston.
- Goldston America 250 Film Series (Monthly, starting January 27, 2026)
- The Regulator Movement and the Revolution in the North Carolina Backcountry (February 1, 2026)
- Siler City History Club Meetings (Second Thursday of Every Month)
- It’s Elementary: America 250 Fun and Games (February 12, 2026)
- Chatham Celebrates America 250: Cumulative Celebration (June 27, 2026)
High Point America 250 Events
The Piedmont Triad is full of America 250 celebrations, and High Point has something planned throughout most of 2026.
- To Form a More Perfect Union Exhibition (February 7, 2026)
- How the Quakers Invented America at the High Point Public Library (February 7)
- The Heritage Book Club Celebrates America 250: How the British Lost America at the High Point Public Library (February 13 and March 6, 2026)
- Tea Time in the Historical Park (February 14, 2026)
- Montford Point Marines of High Point (February 21, 2026)
- Let’s Craft! American Flag Fans in Little Red Schoolhouse (April 11 and June 13, 2026)
- Early American Medicine in the Historical Park (August 8, 2026)
- Quill Pen Writing in the Historical Park (July 11, 2026)
- Mourning in the Park in the Historical Park (October 10 and October 17, 2026)
- Indigenous Cooking in the Historical Park (November 14, 2026)
- Open Hearth Cooking Demonstration in the Historical Park (November 21, 2026)
- Scottish Faire in Historical Park (December 19, 2026)
Read More: Day Trips From Greensboro
Iredell County America 250 Events
Iredell County is home to Fort Dobbs of French and Indian War fame. All events except the first will be held at the Statesville branch of the Iredell County Library.
- Eagles: Love at First Flight at Lake Norman State Park (February 14, 2026)
- Daniel Boone During the American Revolution with Randell Jones (March 10, 2026)
- Capt. Rev. James Hall Shares the Eyewitness Accounts of Iredell County Patriot Soldiers with John Misenheimer (March 21, 2026)
- A Quick and Bloody Affair: The Skirmish at Torrence Tavern (April 9, 2026)
- The Regulators in North Carolina: Prelude to the Revolution with Marcia Phillips (May 5, 2026)
- Governor Dobbs, the French Indian War, and Fort Dobbs with Roger Roark (May 19, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Statesville
Raleigh America 250 Events
We already mentioned the State Capitol’s 4th of July festivities, but there’s even more happening in Raleigh to commemorate America 250.
- American Revolution Lecture Series: Rick Atkinson at the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (February 19, 2026)
- “Well, I Declare: America at 250” at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts (April 10, 2026)
- Celebrating America’s Playlist: The 250-Year Soundtrack of Freedom and Peace (April 11, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Raleigh
Remember the Ladies: A Living History Experience in Waxhaw
Event Date: March 21, 2026
Website
A few months before the commemoration of its American Revolution Weekend, the Museum of the Waxhaws will host a Living History Experience dedicated to “The Ladies.” Demonstrations, presentations, and exhibits will spotlight the unsung heroes (aka the women) behind the Revolution.
The American Revolution Experience in Charlotte
Opening Day: April 18, 2026
Exhibit through April 2027
Website
Travel back to the 18th century through The American Revolution Experience at the Charlotte Museum of History’s 1774 Rock House and homesite. On opening day (April 18, 2026), you can join guided tours, watch living history demos, and partake in immersive activities.
Read More: Museums in Charlotte and Nearby!
“Protected us from all harm” – The American War for Independence in Wachovia*
Event Date: April 25, 2026
Website
The American Revolution was felt everywhere, especially in Moravian settlements throughout the Colonies.
During this America 250 event at Historic Bethabara Park in Winston-Salem, you can learn about how the Moravians of then-Wachovia lived, and watch a recreation of the first peace celebration held on July 4, 1783.
Read More: Things to Do in Winston-Salem
Celebrate 250! – The Singing Americans of Stanly County
Event Dates: June 21, 2026, and July 5, 2026
Website
The Singing Americans of Stanly County will celebrate our 250th Anniversary with two free patriotic concerts, the first one at Grace Baptist Church in Albemarle (June 21) and the second at Badin Baptist Church in Badin (July 5).
BLACK INDIANS: “Native American Family Research” Workshop in Greensboro
Event Date: November 14, 2026
Website
During Native American History Month, the Greensboro History Museum will host a workshop to help unlock the history of Black Indians. The speaker will share research examples tracing his ancestry 400 years back.
Read More: Museums in Greensboro (Kid-Friendly, Contemporary Art, and More!)
America 250 Events in Eastern NC
Eastern North Carolina is a hotbed of Revolutionary activity. Thus, it’s fitting that our coast is home to a plethora of America 250 events.
Note: Advance registration may be required. Please check the official website for each America 250 event.
Bath Historic Site America 250 Events
Bath is the oldest town in North Carolina and was the colony’s first port of entry. The Historic Bath State Historic Site will host events that analyze the town and its people before and during the American Revolution.
- A Town is Born. When Are We US? (March 7, 2026)
- 250th Patriot Maritime Defense in NC (July 25, 2026)
- Our Maritime Heritage. Living History (September 12, 2026)
Read More: Goose Creek State Park
Fayetteville NC America 250 Events
Fayetteville was the first of many places to name itself after the world-famous Frenchman, Marquis de Lafayette. These America 250 events commemorate the city and its surroundings’ place in the Revolution.
- Colonial Tavern Life in North Carolina at Heritage Square Historical Society (January 30, 2026)
- The Tory War at the Cumberland County Headquarters Library (July 25, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Fayetteville
Historic Halifax America 250 Events
Halifax is one of the most important historical towns in NC’s colonial and revolutionary periods. In April 1776, the “Halifax Resolves” were adopted, becoming the first official action by a colony to recommend independence from England.
These America 250 events will keep Halifax on every Patriot’s mind:
- Prelude to Revolution: Halifax Resolves Days (April 10-11, 2026)
- The Road to Yorktown: Living History Day (May 9, 2026)
- Independence Day Celebration at Historic Halifax (July 4, 2026)
- Independence Comes to NC at Historic Halifax (August 1, 2026)
- Labors of Halifax (August 29, 2026)
- Yuletide by Lanternlight at Historic Halifax (December 4, 2026)
History for Lunch Series at the Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City
The Museum of the Albemarle in Elizabeth City will host America 250-related talks as part of its History for Lunch series. You can attend in person or virtually.
- From Ocracoke to Valley Forge – North Carolina’s Role in Supplying the American Revolution by Sea (March 4, 2026)
- To Preserve the Blessings of Liberty: State Constitutions of North Carolina (March 19, 2026)
- Guardians of the Graveyard of the Atlantic: The 235-Year History of the USCG in North Carolina (April 22, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Camden County
Additional America 250 Events in New Bern NC
We’ve highlighted many of New Bern’s America 250 events in the Featured section at the top of this guide. Here are even more to add to your 2026 calendar.
- 250 Books for America 250! at Reading Fun Day (February 7, 2026)
- The American Origin Myth: Why We Remember the Revolution at the North Carolina History Center (February 12, 2026)
- Brave Women: Their Revolutionary Stories (February 15, 2026)
- Becoming American Scripture: The Declaration of Independence after 1776 (February 26, 2026)
- The Emergence of Military Uniforms as a Symbol of National Identity (March 1, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in New Bern
Wilmington America 250 Events
Wilmington (aka Port City) was a powerful player before, during, and after the Revolutionary War. It was also the site of the first armed resistance to the Stamp Act of 1765.
These America 250 events will be held throughout the city, including a few out on the Cape Fear River:
- Hidden Battleship Tours at Battleship North Carolina (January 24, February 28, March 28, April 18, and November 14, 2026)
- Thomas Peters: Fighting the Other Revolution at the New Hanover County Library (February 22, 2026)
- Outlander in the Cape Fear with Wilmington Water Tours (March 7, 2026)
- 1776 The Musical at Thalian Hall (March 13-15, 2026)
- Wilmington Ladies Tea Walk 251st Commemoration at Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens (March 26, 2026)
- Memorial Day Observance at Battleship North Carolina (May 25, 2026)
Read More: Things to Do in Wilmington
The American Revolution Experience in Camden County
Event Dates: January 10-February 2, 2026
Website
On January 10, 2026, the Edenton Tea Party Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter and American Battlefield Trust hosted a free public reception for The American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit.
This exhibit will remain open to the public in the entryway of the Camden County Public Library until February 2.
Read More: Penelope Barker House in Edenton (How to Visit and Why!)
People of Colonial North Carolina: An America 250 NC Exhibit at Perquimans County Library
Event Dates: January 8-February 8, 2026
Website
The Friends of the Perquimans County Library have sponsored “People of Colonial North Carolina,” a seven-panel display in the library lobby. The exhibit explores and shares the stories of North Carolinians during the American Revolution.
Feathers of Freedom at Jockeys Ridge State Park
Event Date: January 24, 2026
Website
Jockeys Ridge State Park hosts “Feathers of Freedom,” a kid-friendly America 250 event. This hands-on activity allows attendees to build a bald eagle that can be taken home and hung in a prominent place.
Read More: Things to Do in the Outer Banks
The Revolutionary Women of Hertford County Exhibit Opening
Event Dates: February 14-July 31, 2026
Website
Hertford County women and their 250 years of achievements will be honored through an exhibit at the Freedom Players Youth Theatre in Ahoskie. An opening ceremony will be held on February 14, 2026.
Martin County Revolutionary Roots Exhibit
Event Dates: January 29, 2026, through the end of 2026
Website
The Martin County 250th & Artifacts Committee will host an opening of its Revolutionary Roots Exhibit. The exhibits represent Martin County’s connection to the Edenton Tea Party and will remain open for the remainder of 2026.
First in Freedom Festival
Official Event Dates: February 21-28, 2026
Website
The 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge is part of the inaugural First in Freedom Festival.
This festival brings together new and established events in Eastern NC during the last week of February.
- Travel back in time to February 1766 at Brunswick Town (February 21, 2026)
- Visit Colonial Topsail (February 21, 2026)
- Black History Carnival in Wilmington (February 21, 2026)
- A Colonial Faire at Harmony Hall in White Oak (February 22, 2026)
- 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge (February 26-28, 2026)
- Legends and Landmarks Art Exhibition Reception in Wilmington (February 27, 2026)
- Moores Creek 250 Anniversary Paddle (February 28, 2026)
More First in Freedom Festival Events
Daniel Davenport Festival: Celebrating a Revolutionary War Soldier in Creswell
Event Date: April 25, 2026
Website
The America 250 NC Washington County 250th Committee and the Washington County Historical Society, in partnership with the Daniel Davenport Festival, have come together to commemorate the lives of Revolutionary War Soldiers.
Living history demonstrations (ropemaking and more) will be joined by musicians and presentations on American Revolution-era medicine and the Tyrrell County Men who served in the war—Washington County wasn’t established until 1799.
The Revolution Begins Symposium in Edenton
Event Date: May 2, 2026
Website
The Historic Chowan County Courthouse will host an engaging series of speakers on the early years of the American Revolution. If the patriotic discussion isn’t enough to draw you in, imagine the beautiful waterfront setting that awaits.
Read More: Things to Do in Edenton
Paddle Through History in Clinton
Event Date: July 1, 2026
Website
Join the Friends of Sampson County Waterways for a “Paddle Through History.” Celebrate the unique and local stories of America’s beginnings on and within the tributaries of the Black River.
1776 the Musical in Sanford
Event Date: September 10, 2026
Website
Head to Temple Theatre in the heart of downtown Sanford for “1776: An American Musical.” This exciting musical is set in Philadelphia in 1776, and will take you back to our nation’s most pivotal moments.
Wreath Laying in Honor of Governor Richard Caswell and his son General William Caswell in Kinston
Event Date: November 15, 2026
Website
Richard Caswell was the first and fifth governor of the US State of North Carolina. To commemorate America 250, a special Living History event will honor the late Governor and his son, General William Caswell.
Read More: Things to Do in Kinson
More Things to Do in NC
These America 250 events in North Carolina would keep any traveler busy. If you’re looking for more things to do in NC, here are some more articles to help your journey.
