As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary and Colorado celebrates 150 years of statehood, the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission today unveiled 12 dynamic signature initiatives that will anchor the commemoration—an ambitious, statewide campaign inviting every Coloradan to explore, reflect on, and shape the story of our democracy.
Centered on the theme “The View From Here,” the commemoration offers a unique opportunity to consider our shared past, celebrate the present, and chart the course for Colorado’s next chapter. These 12 initiatives are designed to inspire connection, community engagement, and statewide pride across all 64 counties.
“The Commission is creating opportunities that offer something for everyone—history, education, art, innovation, and celebration,” said Dr. Stephanie Hartman, Commissioner and the Social Studies Content Specialist at the Colorado Department of Education. “We are eager to showcase the rich diversity of our state and elevate the stories that make Colorado what it is today.”
To learn more about America 250 – Colorado 150 and how you can get involved, visit the official website at https://www.historycolorado.org/colorado-150.
The signature initiatives include:
Historic Preservation: Colorado Heritage for All
This initiative expands representation on the Colorado Register of Historic Properties, increasing funding and preservation opportunities for historically underrepresented communities. The goal is to add 150 new or revised historic sites by 2026.
Statewide Oral History: A Portrait of Colorado at 150
This initiative will highlight diverse stories from across Colorado through oral histories recorded in communities throughout the state. The stories of more than 150 Coloradans from all walks of life will come together to create a portrait of Colorado at 150.
Educational Film Series: The Land We Call Home
A six-part documentary series designed for Colorado classrooms that will enable teachers to meet Colorado academic standards while students connect to the state’s past through geographically and culturally relevant histories. The films will be distributed via Rocky Mountain PBS, public libraries, and schools.
Colorado Statehood Online Exhibit: Curricular Materials for Educators
A new online exhibit and digital learning platform will provide educators with materials and resources to explore the forces that shaped Colorado’s path to statehood, including gold mining, voting rights, and Native land dispossession.
Publications Highlighting Colorado History
A collection of books, articles, and expanded Colorado Encyclopedia entries will bring forward new historical research, including a comprehensive book on Colorado’s history, a beer-focused historical analysis, and special editions of The Colorado Magazine.
Digital Passport Program: Journey Through Colorado
The Commission will launch a digital passport on Colorado.com, encouraging residents and visitors to explore Colorado’s attractions, businesses, and hidden gems. Participants can “check-in” at sites to earn rewards, badges, and exclusive offers. Launching in the Summer of 2025, this initiative will run throughout 2026.
Drone Shows: Stories in the Sky
2026 will bring awe-inspiring drone shows to communities across the state, marking a new era of celebration. With an estimated 40 to 60 drone shows, this commemorative program will reach millions of residents and visitors. Events will target every region and be promoted statewide. To maximize impact, the Commission aims to host simultaneous drone shows across Colorado in a year-round celebration of our state’s rich history and bright future.
American History Marquee Exhibition: Moments that Made US
This marquee exhibition at the History Colorado Center features more than 40 artifacts that witnessed the moments that shaped America. At these turning points, visitors will encounter the struggles, setbacks, resilience, and triumphs that made this nation. Our story was never inevitable. We shaped it at every point.
Print-On-Demand Exhibition: Moments that Made US for Colorado Communities
History Colorado will offer a print-on-demand version for smaller institutions such as local museums, libraries, and historical societies to expand access to the Moments that Made US exhibition. This format allows for widespread participation, with customizable panels so communities can incorporate local stories into the broader historical narrative.
Historic Signage: History Where It Happened
A revitalization effort to update and add 150 historic markers across Colorado, ensuring a more accurate and inclusive representation of our state’s history while preserving these markers for future generations.
14er Climb: Summit 2026
On July 4th, 2026, Americans around the nation will gather to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Colorado, we can bring unparalleled heights to this moment. Reimagining this 1976 Bicentennial event, the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is partnering with the Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation to coordinate a once-in-a-generation 14er climb in the summer of 2026.
Community Funding Opportunities: Aligned Giving
In partnership with leading statewide foundations, the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission invites community organizations to participate in the 2026 commemoration. Through this program, the Commission will act as a clearinghouse, connecting organizations with funding opportunities for programs and projects celebrating Colorado’s deep history and promising future. Organizations across Colorado are encouraged to submit project descriptions for review, with a streamlined process to connect selected proposals with funding partners.
The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission invites corporate, foundation, and individual partners to help bring these signature initiatives to life. The Commission is seeking additional support to ensure these bold, inclusive, and statewide projects reflect the spirit of Colorado and provide meaningful opportunities for sponsors to play a visible role in the commemoration. To learn more, contact Cheri Gonzales.
These signature initiatives are just the beginning. Local programs, events, and statewide collaborations will offer additional ways to participate, celebrate, and contribute to this once-in-a-generation moment.
Coloradans and visitors alike are invited to discover the many ways to experience the 250-150 commemoration through the statewide Event Calendar. With a diverse lineup of events — ranging from concerts and festivals to history exhibits, cultural observances, public art, educational programming, and civic forums — there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to reflect, learn, or celebrate, the calendar offers countless opportunities to connect with Colorado’s rich past and vibrant present.
About the America 250 – Colorado Commemoration
The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is leading Colorado’s commemoration of 150 years of statehood and 250 years of American independence in 2026. Established by Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado General Assembly, the Commission brings together leaders from across the state to guide this historic milestone. Through its campaign, “The View From Here,” the Commission invites all Coloradans to reflect on our shared history and imagine the future, recognizing Colorado’s unique legacy as the only state founded on the nation’s 100th birthday in 1876. Working alongside state agencies, regional Advisory Panels, and local communities, the Commission will showcase signature initiatives, educational programs, exhibits, and community-led events to inspire engagement statewide.
To learn more about America 250 – Colorado 150 and how you can get involved, visit the official website at https://www.historycolorado.org/colorado-150.