Pelham Launches Yearlong America 250 Celebration

City forms local committee to plan educational, creative, and community events for 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The city of Pelham, Alabama is preparing to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 with a yearlong celebration. The city has formed a local committee to plan a range of initiatives, including student and educational programs, public art, veteran recognition, community service projects, and civic celebrations.

Why it matters

Pelham's America 250 celebration will complement broader statewide events centered at the American Village in Shelby County, allowing the city to connect residents with those resources while highlighting its own local heritage. The milestone carries personal significance for city leaders, who hope the celebration will remind residents of the country's founding principles and bring the community together during a challenging time.

The details

Pelham's approach to the America 250 celebration reflects the Alabama mission by focusing on education, inclusivity, service, and engagement. Residents can expect a mix of educational initiatives, creative projects, athletic and recreational events, patriotic celebrations, and ongoing community efforts throughout the year. The full calendar of events is expected to be completed and shared publicly next week.

  • Pelham is preparing to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
  • The city's America 250 events and ways for residents to get involved will be released in the coming weeks.

The players

Pelham

A city in Alabama that is planning a yearlong celebration to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

American Village

A historical site in Shelby County, Alabama that is hosting broader statewide celebrations for the America 250 milestone.

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What they’re saying

“Our approach reflects the America 250 Alabama mission by focusing on education, inclusivity, service and engagement. We are intentionally creating opportunities for residents to participate through learning, creativity, service projects and shared community moments.”

— Pelham City Manager (shelbycountyreporter.com)

“I was a seventh grader during the Bicentennial celebration in 1976, and I still remember how important that moment felt. I hope the youth of our community remember that they had the opportunity to live through the celebration of our nation's birth. This is a historic time, and we should all stand with pride and gratitude for what we have. Most importantly, it's a reminder that we are all Americans.”

— Pelham City Manager (shelbycountyreporter.com)

“Our country is at a crossroads. But it's often at our lowest points, and when our neighbors need help, that we put our differences aside and stand side by side. I hope America 250 helps remind us of the foundation on which our country was built: liberty and justice for all.”

— Pelham City Manager (shelbycountyreporter.com)

What’s next

A full calendar outlining Pelham's America 250 events is expected to be completed next week and shared publicly.

The takeaway

Pelham's America 250 celebration will bring the community together to commemorate the nation's founding principles through educational, creative, and service-oriented initiatives. The milestone holds personal significance for city leaders, who hope the events will remind residents of their shared American identity during a challenging time for the country.