top of page
America 250-V3.png

Join the America 250 Upper Valley Community Celebration – July 4, 2026

 

Happy New Year! We hope this message finds you well.

 

We are writing as a growing collective of local citizens—families, neighbors, and community members—who have come together to explore how our community might 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 town 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 encouraged a community-led effort. In support of this approach, a City grant of $3,030 has been awarded to help initiate planning.

 

We have also had encouraging conversations with representatives from the School District, the Museum, Icicle Creek Center for the Arts, and the Chamber of Commerce. Each expressed interest and support for a collaborative, community-driven event.

 

Now, we are expanding the conversation; reaching out to nonprofits, churches, businesses, civic groups, and residents; to strategize, plan, and coordinate an inclusive celebration that reflects our entire community.

 

The Community Celebration!

 

Here is a peak into our goal and plan.

  • A family-friendly community fair on the early evening of Saturday, July 4, 2026

  • Food vendors and local businesses

  • Activity booths hosted by community organizations

  • Short programs featuring speakers, dancers, musicians, and patriotic performances

  • Historical visuals celebrating local, state, and national heritage

  • A culminating 200+ drone light show (in place of fireworks), customized to highlight our community’s story

 

We have identified a provider capable of producing a tailored drone show. It is likely to be the only large-scale drone show in North Central Washington.

 

Why Begin Now?

 

We recognize that our community has recently faced challenges—from winter storms to business disruptions. At the same time, this semiquincentennial milestone comes only once every 250 years. Meaningful planning takes time, collaboration, and broad community participation.

 

We are looking for your support and participation in any way possible.

 

How You Can Be Involved

 

This effort will require:

  • Volunteers

  • Donors

  • Sponsorships

  • Creative partners, planners and doers

 

At this stage, we are seeking to:

  • Gauge interest from residents

  • Identify prospective volunteers

  • Connect with potential sponsors and donors

 

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.

 

Volunteer

Sponsor

Donate

 

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, loaning them to the event or have rental fees, please visit the website below.

 

Wish List

 

Learn More

 

For background on the broader 250th Anniversary initiatives, you may visit:

 

Thank you for considering being part of this collaborative community effort. Together, we can design a celebration that honors our history, reflects our shared values, and brings neighbors together.

 

With appreciation,

The America 250 Upper Valley Community Planning Collective
Leavenworth Citizens and Neighbors

bottom of page