Spirit of ’76 Onsite Public Programs
Congress Celebrates the Nation
In 2026 the United States observes its Semiquincentennial—250 years since its founding.
Congress has been at the forefront of Fourth of July celebrations, guiding milestone anniversary commemorations in 1826, 1851, 1876, 1926, and 1976. On these occasions Congress sought to evoke the Spirit of 1776—feelings of patriotism and pride in the story of American independence.
Onsite public programs will follow Congress and the American people’s journey through time as they marked these anniversaries of American ideals.
Family Program: Family-friendly activities for children of all ages.
Object Spotlight: Short, informal conversations focused on a single object.
Mapping Histories: Interactive storytelling with maps.
Seen on Screen: Connect a key moment in U.S. history with digital media.
Curator Talk: Join a curator for a tour of the special exhibit “Spirit of ’76.”
Special Guest: Presentations by special guests will be announced once confirmed.
Americans initially viewed the Declaration of Independence mainly as a statement of separation from Great Britain. By the time of the 50th anniversary of the Declaration’s signing, Americans viewed the Declaration differently. A broad majority celebrated the Declaration. It had become the statement of foundational principles that united the American people.
Families make their own copy of the Declaration of Independence.
Take a closer look at an object that tells the story of America in 1826.
Learn about Marquis de Lafayette’s legacy and his grand tour of America.
Watch how John Trumbull’s famous painting helped invent the Fourth of July.
Join a Curator for a tour of the special exhibit, “Spirit of ’76”.
As Americans remembered the Declaration on its 75th anniversary, they celebrated a growing nation. Congress had added 18 new states. Congress also forged the Compromise of 1850, which briefly quieted disputes over the expansion of slavery into the West and temporarily preserved the Union.
Families design their own parade outfit.
Take a closer look at an object that tells the story of America in 1851.
Learn more about historic places and events in the District of Columbia around 1851.
Map the impact of the Compromise of 1850 and Kansas-Nebraska Act.
Watch descendants of Frederick Douglass read excerpts of his famous speech.
Join a Curator for a tour of the special exhibit, “Spirit of ’76”.
Congress observed the 100th anniversary of American independence in 1876 by sponsoring an international exposition in Philadelphia, the Declaration’s birthplace. Amid the Centennial Exposition’s displays of technological advancement and patriotic fervor, there were few signs of the recent Civil War. The country may have been united, but the rights granted by the Declaration had not been fully realized by African Americans or women.
Learn more about the beginning of the Capitol Guide Force, an organization which later transformed into the Capitol Visitor Center staff that serves visitors today.
Families listen to Visitor Guides share stories about working at the U.S. Capitol.
Take a closer look at an object that tells the story of America in 1876.
Learn about the Presidential Electoral College map of 1876.
Watch a costumed reenactment of the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition.
Join a Curator for a tour of the special exhibit, “Spirit of ’76”.
America’s 150th birthday fell in the Roaring Twenties, a time of rising entrepreneurial spirit. World War I and a global flu pandemic had ended, followed by an economic boom for some Americans. Popular jazz music brought new attention to African American culture. To celebrate the anniversary, Congress authorized a World’s Fair in Philadelphia.
Families explore a cartoon map of Philadelphia and make their own souvenir postcards.
Take a closer look at an object that tells the story of America in 1926.
Learn about the emerging interstate highway system and popularization of automobiles in 1926.
Watch a silent film of Washington, D.C. 100 years ago and compare it to today.
Join a Curator for a tour of the special exhibit, “Spirit of ’76”.
By 1976 the United States was a global superpower and had made a significant mark on world history. The nation’s 100th and 150th anniversary celebrations had been forward-looking festivals of progress, highlighting America’s technological and scientific advancements. On the 200th birthday, Congress and the nation looked to the past to celebrate, remember, and reflect on America’s roots.
Families are encouraged to make their own commitments to America with Arba the Eagle.
Take a closer look at an object that tells the story of America in 1976.
Learn about the various ways communities across America marked the bicentennial.
Watch a compilation of television commissioned for the bicentennial.
Join a Curator for a tour of the special exhibit, “Spirit of ’76”.
Come celebrate the Semiquincentennial at the Capitol! Check back for more details about special onsite programs.