~ Mesa, AZ - The City of Mesa has announced its plans to commemorate the nation's 250th birthday in 2026 with a series of events and initiatives. These efforts are part of the nationwide America250 celebration, which aims to honor the country's history and inspire its future.

Mayor Mark Freeman expressed his excitement for this milestone, stating, "America's 250th birthday is a once-in-a-lifetime moment to reflect on what makes this country great. For 250 years, men and women have stepped up, served their communities and defended the freedoms we enjoy today." He also emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices that have built the nation.

Mesa's America250 efforts will be guided by three pillars: Commitment to Service, Honoring Our History, and Celebrating Our Community and Neighborhoods. The city is encouraging residents to participate through two signature initiatives. The first is the America250 Volunteer Pledge, which challenges the community to contribute 100,000 hours of volunteer service in honor of the anniversary. The second initiative is America250: Neighborhood Celebration, which invites neighborhoods to host at least one resident-led gathering during 2026.

Vice Mayor Scott Somers, chair of Mesa's America250 Committee, highlighted the significance of community involvement in these celebrations. "There's nothing more American than making a difference in your local community," he said. "That's why Mesa is celebrating by creating opportunities for residents to serve others, learn about our history and help shape our future."

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The Mesa Public Library will play a significant role in hosting America250 programs at all branches. One highlight will be the Road to 250: Arizona Traveling Museum featuring a replica Liberty Bell on February 28 at Red Mountain Library - its only stop in Maricopa County. Other educational events will focus on topics such as the Underground Railroad, World War II history, and colonial-era themed activities.

Students will also have the opportunity to participate in America250 through the annual Historical Essay and Visual Arts Contest, hosted by the Mesa Historic Preservation Board and Historic Preservation Office. The 2026 theme, "Mesa Through Time: Honoring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future," aligns with the pillars of Mesa's America250 celebration. Registration is open to Mesa residents in kindergarten through 12th grade until March 24.

In addition to these initiatives, Mesa will also mark America250 through sustainability and cultural programming. The city plans to give away 250 Liberty Trees as a living tribute to the anniversary, providing shade and environmental benefits throughout local neighborhoods.

At Mesa Arts Center, Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum is currently showcasing "Crafting Legacy: Honoring Arizona Veteran Artists," an exhibition that celebrates 250 years of American Craft. Other America250-related performances include The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra on February 24 and the U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers' Chorus on March 8. The center will also host Out to Lunch, a free outdoor concert series celebrating the evolution of American music.

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Baseball fans will be delighted to know that Mesa's historical connection to the sport will also be highlighted during America250 celebrations. On February 21, the Arizona Baseball Museum - the first museum in the state dedicated solely to Arizona's baseball history - will open its doors at the historic Lehi Auditorium on the campus of the nonprofit Mesa Historical Museum. The museum explores the birth of the Cactus League and Arizona's role in making it a spring training destination.

The city's America250 celebrations will culminate with the Arizona Celebration of Freedom (ACOF) on July 4 in downtown Mesa. This event includes a naturalization ceremony, a Fallen Soldier Memorial, patriotic displays, a kid's zone, live music, and a fireworks display accompanied by patriotic music.

Vice Mayor Scott Somers chairs Mesa's America250 planning committee, which includes representatives from various community partners such as the Downtown Mesa Association, Daughters of the American Revolution, Mesa Chamber of Commerce, Mesa Public Schools, and more. Updates on Mesa's America250 events will be posted on the city's website, and residents can also visit America250.org for more information.

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