Governor Ron DeSantis unveils year long Florida celebration to mark America’s 250th birthday across the state
Vero Beach, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis has announced a series of statewide events, exhibits, and public initiatives to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 2026. Branded as America 250 Florida, the program marks the state’s official observance of the nation’s semiquincentennial and will provide a variety of opportunities for residents and visitors across Florida to engage with American history while celebrating the state’s unique contributions to the country’s development.
“As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary, Florida rejects the concerted efforts to malign our nation’s history, distort the principles of the founding, and demonize our founders,” Governor DeSantis said during the announcement. “We are planning a series of events, exhibits, and opportunities statewide for Floridians to celebrate the ‘Spirit of ’76.’ Florida is proud to lead with celebrations that promote civic virtue, historical education, and patriotic pride.”
The initiative is not simply a collection of commemorative activities. It is a coordinated effort between state agencies, cultural institutions, and local communities to honor the principles upon which the nation was built. “This isn’t just another history lesson—the Governor is spearheading a movement to restore our Founding Fathers to their rightful place in history,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “We have a duty to teach the next generation about the principles our Founding Fathers enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. America’s Semiquincentennial is a great time to do that.”
Florida’s strategic role in American history forms a central theme of the statewide commemoration. Although not one of the original thirteen colonies, Florida played a key role during the Revolutionary War and later joined the United States through the Adams-Onís Treaty of 1821. This history has earned Florida the nickname “the Fourteenth Colony,” reflecting the territory’s close connection to the original colonies and its contributions to the nation’s early growth.
“Florida is proud to celebrate our great nation,” said Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “At Governor DeSantis’ direction, state partners are working together to create meaningful opportunities for residents and visitors to experience American and Florida history and celebrate America. For anyone looking for the right place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, make Florida your choice.”
As part of the commemoration, Governor DeSantis declared General George Washington’s Birthday a Florida state holiday, with state offices closed on Monday, February 16, 2026. The observance will be highlighted with Washington’s Birthday Weekend, taking place February 12–16, honoring the first president of the United States and commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. The weekend will feature a variety of activities designed to encourage Floridians to enjoy outdoor spaces while learning about American history.
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One of the marquee events will be the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA, held in partnership with NASCAR. The event is part of Speedweeks and serves as a qualifier for the 68th running of the DAYTONA 500. Scheduled alongside the Fresh From Florida 250 on Friday, February 13, the America 250 Duel showcases Florida’s engagement with sports, history, and national culture in a single celebration.
In addition to motorsport festivities, Floridians will benefit from waived admissions at all state parks, wildlife management areas, water management lands, and Department of State historic properties during Washington’s Birthday Weekend. Visitors will have access to historical sites, natural spaces, and cultural centers free of charge, allowing families and residents to immerse themselves in the state’s history and environment simultaneously.
Governor DeSantis also highlighted a series of exhibits at the Florida Capitol. “The 14th Colony” history exhibit will feature artifacts, works of art, key documents, and patriotic memorabilia curated by the Florida Department of State. The exhibit, produced in collaboration with the Division of Historical Resources, the Division of Library and Information Services, and the Division of Arts and Culture, will be displayed on the 22nd Floor Capitol Gallery until the end of the 2026 Legislative Session in March. Additional materials from the exhibit will remain available throughout the year on the Plaza Level and Lower Level of the Capitol. Plans for a complementary online exhibit are also underway.
Visitors to the exhibit will find interactive components, including a children’s activity book, and informational brochures, offering an immersive educational experience for learners of all ages. Beyond the Capitol, statues honoring America’s founders have been unveiled in counties bearing their names, with more dedications planned throughout the year.
The state’s historic role is also highlighted through the America250FL Golf Trail, a network of historic and participating golf courses across Florida. Each course will feature a commemorative America 250 Florida flag on the 14th hole, symbolizing the state’s recognition as the “14th Colony.” This trail provides both residents and tourists the opportunity to enjoy Florida’s golfing culture while engaging with the state’s historical legacy. Golf courses wishing to participate can submit applications through the official America250FL website.
Another key initiative is the 14th Colony Heritage Sites & America 250 Florida Road Trip, which curates a collection of historic sites and state parks emphasizing Florida’s Revolutionary, territorial, and early statehood history. Locations on the list include Mission San Luis in Tallahassee, Big Talbot Island State Park and Fort George Island Cultural State Park in Jacksonville, Tomoka State Park in Ormond Beach, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park in Alachua County, San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park in St. Marks, and Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park along with Amelia Island State Park and Fort Clinch State Park in Nassau County. The initiative also highlights the Constitution Convention Museum State Park in Port St. Joe, John Gorrie Museum State Park in Apalachicola, Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park in Sanderson, Dade Battlefield Historic State Park in Sumter County, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park in Cross Creek, Fort Mose Historic State Park in St. Augustine, and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West.
Many of these parks will host period reenactors and events throughout 2026, providing visitors with a hands-on, living history experience that highlights the daily life, struggles, and triumphs of early Floridians. These opportunities aim to engage residents of all ages, bringing history to life in ways that are both educational and entertaining.
The Florida Department of Education is also involved, launching the America 250 Florida Student Art & Essay Contest. This program encourages students to engage with the state and nation’s history through creative expression. Fourteen Florida Prepaid Scholarships will be awarded to qualifying students for use at Florida colleges and universities. While specific prompts and deadlines are forthcoming, the initiative aims to inspire young Floridians to learn, reflect, and contribute to the understanding of their state and nation’s legacy.
Beyond the educational and cultural initiatives, the commemoration provides Floridians with numerous outdoor and recreational opportunities. The state’s year-round warm weather, combined with access to historic sites and natural spaces, allows families to explore the outdoors while participating in the anniversary celebrations. From golfing to hiking, from visiting historic forts to exploring wildlife management areas, the America 250 Florida events are designed to blend history, culture, and leisure in ways accessible to every community across the state.
“The celebrations planned for 2026 provide residents and visitors alike with an opportunity to connect with the principles and people who shaped our nation,” Governor DeSantis said. “We are offering something for everyone, from education and history to recreation and cultural enrichment. It is a year-long invitation for all Floridians to celebrate what makes this country unique.”
Throughout the year, additional activities and opportunities will continue to be announced. Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities by visiting America250FL.com, the state’s official hub for the semiquincentennial celebration. By centralizing information, the state hopes to make it easy for residents and tourists to plan visits, participate in contests, and attend events that highlight Florida’s history and its contribution to the broader story of the United States.
The America 250 Florida initiative reflects an ambitious and multifaceted approach to civic engagement, education, and tourism. By combining historical exhibits, interactive student programs, recreational opportunities, and statewide commemorations, the state aims to foster a sense of pride, knowledge, and appreciation for both national and state history. The initiative underscores Florida’s commitment to celebrating its role as the so-called “14th Colony” and ensuring that residents understand and connect with the principles that shaped the country, all while taking advantage of the state’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
From the historic exhibits in the Capitol to outdoor activities at state parks and heritage sites, from motorsports events to creative student contests, America 250 Florida offers a year-long opportunity for engagement. The combination of education, recreation, and cultural enrichment aims to create a lasting impact on participants and foster a deep connection to the past while inspiring future generations to understand the significance of the United States’ founding.
With celebrations and commemorations planned statewide, the initiative is designed to unite Floridians in a shared reflection of history and pride, while also promoting tourism, education, and community involvement. Governor DeSantis and state partners emphasize that the effort is not simply about marking an anniversary, but about embedding the principles, stories, and contributions of the nation and Florida into the public consciousness, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
In 2026, Florida will serve as a hub for commemorating the nation’s 250th birthday, showcasing the state’s historical importance, its cultural richness, and its commitment to civic engagement. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore the many opportunities available, from historic tours and exhibits to student programs and recreational activities, ensuring that the celebration of America’s semiquincentennial is inclusive, engaging, and memorable for all.
