America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and is led by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
In 2026 the inaugural North Carolina First in Freedom Festival will celebrate more than 250 years of our Nation’s story and culture viewed through the lens of historical North Carolina events and the arts. Local counties, cities towns, and communities will unite with local historians and historical sites to host events and activities as well as our arts community and business community.
“The anniversary year is not that far away, and we are making big plans for it” said Jim Buell, President of the Moores Creek Battleground Association.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ America 250 NC initiative recently dispersed nearly $900,000 in grant funds across 34 counties in the state. The grant program is designed to spark commemoration programs and activities on a local level.
“These America 250 grants will serve as catalysts for local participation in the nationwide commemoration of our nation’s founding,” said DNCR Secretary Reid Wilson. “We look forward to working with communities across the state to build a memorable and meaningful celebration for all North Carolinians.”
For more information about America 250 NC, visit america250.nc.gov.
