Your regional guide to America's 250th anniversary celebrations

This calendar of events tracks the evolving slate of Semiquincentennial celebrations scheduled across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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This article provides a comprehensive guide to the various events and celebrations planned across the Midwest to mark America's 250th anniversary. From historic reenactments and community festivals to concerts and fairs, the calendar covers a wide range of activities taking place in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Why it matters

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th year of independence, communities across the heartland are coming together to honor the nation's history and heritage through a diverse array of events and festivities. This guide helps residents and visitors alike navigate the evolving slate of Semiquincentennial celebrations scheduled throughout the region.

The details

The article outlines dozens of events taking place in cities and towns across the four-state area, including Bismarck, Crosslake, Valley City, Richardton, Willmar, Grand Forks, Williston, Dickinson, Mandan, Medora, Walhalla, Pekin, Rugby, New Salem, Fargo, Minot, and more. The events range from historic reenactments and educational presentations to community festivals, concerts, parades, fireworks displays, and even a chokecherry festival.

  • The events are scheduled to take place throughout 2026, with the earliest occurring in February and the latest in September.

The players

Forum Communications

The media company that published the article and is compiling the regional event calendar.

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What’s next

The article notes that the calendar of events is continually being updated as more communities across the region finalize their plans to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. Readers are encouraged to email america250@forumcomm.com to submit additional events for inclusion.

The takeaway

From the heartland to the northern plains, communities across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are coming together to commemorate America's 250th birthday through a diverse array of cultural events, historical reenactments, and festive celebrations that honor the nation's rich history and heritage.