Trump Announces 'Rededicate 250' Faith Event on National Mall

The daylong celebration will feature worship, speeches, and music to commemorate America's 250th anniversary.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Trump administration has revealed plans for a faith-focused event on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. this summer to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. The 'Rededicate 250: National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving' will take place on May 17 and feature Christian music, religious leaders, and members of the president's cabinet. The event aims to 'rededicate' the country through 'speech, song, and storytelling' and redirect the nation towards faith, according to senior advisor Vince Haley.

Why it matters

The event reflects President Trump's longstanding efforts to align the country more closely with religious values and institutions, which he sees as central to America's success. It also comes amid a reported rise in religious engagement, especially among younger Americans, that the administration hopes to capitalize on.

The details

The daylong event will run from 6am to 6pm on the National Mall, with doors opening at 4:30am. It will feature Christian music, speeches by religious leaders and cabinet members, and other forms of worship and celebration. The administration is in talks with various potential participants, including Secretary Hegseth who may discuss historical events like Washington's evacuation under fog in 1776.

  • The event is scheduled for May 17, 2026.
  • It will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Second Continental Congress's observation of a day of 'fasting, humiliation, and prayer' in 1776.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who announced plans for the 'Rededicate 250' event and has emphasized the importance of faith and religious institutions in American life.

Vince Haley

A senior advisor to President Trump who spoke with the Daily Caller about the upcoming event and the administration's goals of redirecting the country towards faith.

Secretary Hegseth

A potential speaker at the event who may discuss historical events like Washington's evacuation under fog in 1776, which the administration sees as a 'miraculous' moment.

Freedom 250

An organization created to plan the celebrations for America's 250th anniversary in conjunction with the White House.

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What they’re saying

“This particular event will surely remind people of the work of God in American life.”

— Vince Haley, Senior Advisor to the President (Daily Caller)

“As we chart our course toward the next 250 years, let us rededicate ourselves to one nation under God.”

— Donald Trump (July 2025 rally)

“Religion and morality are indispensable supports for 'political prosperity.'”

— George Washington (Washington's farewell address)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This event reflects the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to align the country more closely with religious values and institutions, which they see as central to America's success and prosperity. It comes amid a reported rise in religious engagement, especially among younger Americans, that the administration hopes to capitalize on.