The City of Chicago and Choose Chicago, the city’s official destination marketing organization, present the national commemoration of America 250, with a political message in background in time of rising polarization in the United States.
Through a year-long series of cultural events, neighborhood celebrations, public art, and civic initiatives, Chicago will honor the nation’s founding while centering the people and movements that have pushed America to live up to its promises.
“Chicago represents the soul of America, not just in our triumphs, but in our struggles to build a more just and inclusive democracy,” said in March Mayor Brandon Johnson. “For 250 years, progress in this country has come when working people stood in common purpose, organizing, demanding fairness, and pushing this nation closer to its founding promise. That spirit lives in Chicago.”
Since its founding in 1837, Chicago has embodied the spirit of innovation and progress that defines the United States.
“Located in the heart of the country, Chicago embodies the values that America was founded on—freedom, inclusion, diversity, and resilience,” said Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “From transformative social movements to cultural and technical innovations that changed the world, Chicago’s influence on our nation’s history is profound. In this milestone year, there is no better place to visit to experience the spirit of America than Chicago.”
Culture, Innovation and Civic Legacy
Through Choose Chicago’s new America 250 online hub, locals and visitors are invited to explore the city’s rich history through curated itineraries, special events, and guides to the museums, neighborhoods, and landmarks that tell the story of Chicago’s enduring impact on America.
Chicago’s influence has extended far beyond its region through culture, creativity, and sound. The city gave rise to musical traditions like gospel, blues, jazz, and house music; art forms born from the experiences of Black, Latino, and working-class communities that went on to shape music around the world.
From neighborhood churches and community halls to global stages, Chicago’s cultural legacy reflects the same spirit of resilience, expression, and collective power represented in all corners of our great nation.
“We are proud to mark this historic moment through music that reflects the diverse cultural traditions that define our nation,” said Jeff Alexander, President of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association. “Through CSO America 250: A Musical Journey, we look forward to celebrating the power of music to bring people together and honor the many voices that have shaped America’s artistic legacy.”
Today, Chicago stands as a global cultural capital built by the resilience, creativity, and collective action of its people. America 250 in Chicago will honor that legacy while acknowledging the unfinished work of building equity and shared prosperity. As it looks to the next 250 years, Chicago will continue leading the work of building a future grounded in justice, opportunity, and collective progress.
The City collaborates with cultural institutions like the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Public Libraries, and the Department of Aviation, to ensure this commemoration reflects the full and layered history of Chicago. Events will include neighborhood celebrations, museum exhibitions, performances, public art, and tours highlighting the people, places, and movements that shaped Chicago’s role in the American story.
“Chicago and Illinois don’t just reflect the American story—we write it,” said Gabrielle Lyon, Chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission and Executive Director of Illinois Humanities. “From cultural innovation to social and political movements that have pushed the country forward, the road to America’s 250th runs through Illinois.”
The diversity of the American society at the heart of Chicago’s commemoration
Chicago’s commemoration is part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois America 250 Commission to recognize the people, places, and movements across Illinois that have shaped the nation’s history.
Programming will intentionally center the contributions and leadership of Indigenous communities, immigrants and refugees, Black Chicagoans, Latino communities, Asian American and Pacific Islander residents, LGBTQ+ Chicagoans, people with disabilities, and working families across every neighborhood.
The commemoration also comes during a milestone year for Chicago. In 2026, the City will mark the centennial of U.S. Route 66, welcome the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, host national gatherings including the NAACP Annual Convention, and celebrate major cultural, civic, and sporting events across the city.
More information about America 250 in Chicago will be available in the coming month at https://www.choosechicago.com/america-250/.
