Join the America 250 Upper Valley Community Celebration – July 4, 2026
We hope this message finds you well.
We are writing as a growing coalition of local citizens—families, neighbors, and community members—who have come together to explore how our community will meaningfully celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary on July 4, 2026. This once-in-a-generation milestone offers a unique opportunity to honor our shared history while strengthening the connections that make our community special.
A Grassroots Community Celebration
After inquiring whether the City of Leavenworth had plans to lead a local observance, we learned that while the City is unable to dedicate staff time, they did encourage a community-led effort. In support of this approach, we applied for a City grant and were awarded $3,030.00.
We have also had encouraging conversations with representatives from the School District, the Greater Leavenworth Museum, Icicle Creek Center for the Arts, Leavenworth Rotary Club, and the Chamber of Commerce. Each expressed interest and support for a collaborative, community-driven event.
Now, we are expanding the conversation. We are reaching out to nonprofits, churches, businesses, civic groups, and residents, to strategize, plan, and coordinate an inclusive celebration that reflects our entire community.
This is a Community Celebration!
Here is a peek into our goal and plan.
-
A family-friendly community fair on the early evening of Saturday, July 4, 2026
-
Food vendors and merchandise vendors
-
Activity booths and field games hosted by community organizations and local businesses
-
Short programs featuring speakers, dancers, musicians, and patriotic performances
-
Historical visuals and videos celebrating local, state, and national stories and heritage
-
Culminating in a light show (in place of fireworks), customized to highlight our community’s story
We are looking for your support and participation in any way possible.
Why Begin Now?
We recognize that our community has recently faced financial challenges—from winter storms to business disruptions. At the same time, this semi-quincentennial milestone comes only once every 250 years. Meaningful planning takes time, collaboration, and broad community participation.
How You Can Be Involved
This effort will require:
-
Volunteers
-
Donors
-
Sponsors
-
Creative partners, planners and doers
If you would like to participate in shaping this celebration, we are excited to have you!
If you are interested in sponsoring or contributing financially, we will provide a sponsorship overview and answer any questions. Through our sponsoring 501(c)(3) organization, we will provide tax-deductible receipts for your transactions.
Please use the links below to explore the area that best suits your interest.
We are also building a list of items that we need to produce the event. If you have access to any of these items and are interested in donating items or loaning them, please visit the website below.
Thank you for considering being part of this collaborative community effort. Together, we can design a fun-filled and educational celebration that honors our history, reflects our shared values, and brings neighbors together.
With sincere appreciation and gratitude,
The America 250 Upper Valley Community Celebration Coalition
Upper Valley Citizens and Neighbors
Email: hello@america250uvcc.com
Website: America250UVCC.com
For background on the broader 250th Anniversary initiatives, you may visit:
-
Washington State: America250wa.org
-
National: America250.org