America 250 at UA

In 2026, the United States of America marks a historic milestone, celebrating 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

For nearly two centuries, The University of Alabama has played a vital role in educating citizens, advancing knowledge and serving the people of Alabama and the nation. As we commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, the University will highlight the ideals that unite us—service, leadership, discovery and civic responsibility—through events, storytelling and scholarship that connect history to contemporary challenges and opportunities.

The 250th anniversary of the United States invites us to reflect on the principles that have guided our nation and the role we play in what comes next. At The University of Alabama, this moment is an opportunity to honor our history, including our many students, alumni, and supporters who have served our great nation. It is also a reminder of our mission to prepare our students to lead, serve and contribute in ways that will help define the future. America 250 at UA will bring our campus community together for thoughtful dialogue, discovery and engagement, reflecting our role as the flagship university of this state and our commitment to advancing the future Alabama and the nation deserve.
Dr. Peter J. Mohler, President, The University of Alabama

This celebration is both a remembrance and a call to action. It invites our students, faculty, staff, alumni and communities to engage thoughtfully with the American story, to examine progress and complexity, and to imagine how the next generation of leaders can strengthen our democracy and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

AMERICA 250 AT UA EVENTS

Cotton, Cloth, and Community: Alabama Quilting Traditions

Now through May 30

The Gorgas House Museum, UA Museums, and the Barefield College of Arts & Sciences are excited to present “Cotton, Cloth, and Community: Alabama Quilting Traditions” from February 16 – May 30, 2026.

The John S. Steiner Endowed Lecture Series

February 28, 2026 (11:00 AM)

The UA Museums John S. Steiner Endowed Lecture features historian Mike Bunn presenting a free talk on February 28, 2026, at The University of Alabama about his book Fourteenth Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During America’s Revolutionary Era. The lecture explores the overlooked history of West Florida and its role in the Revolutionary era, followed by a reception and book signing at the Alabama Museum of Natural History.

Blackburn Institute Washington, D.C. Government Experience

March 17-21, 2026

This Washington, D.C. travel experience brings Blackburn Institute students into direct conversation with national leaders across government, policy, law, and public service. Over four days, participants hear Capitol Hill discussions and a Supreme Court session and engage with White House staff, congressional offices, federal agencies, legal professionals, and policy experts. The government experience highlights pathways to civic leadership while fostering a deeper understanding of American institutions, public service, and democratic processes.

Greenwood Walking Tour

April 25, 2026 (2:00pm-4:00pm)

Organized by the Chief Tuskaloosa Chapter, NSDAR in collaboration with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Alabama, the event celebrates America’s 250th anniversary through a living history walking tour. Participants will encounter performers in period attire portraying notable historical figures buried in the cemetery, each giving short presentations that highlight Tuscaloosa’s history from the Revolutionary War era to the present day.

This event is at the Greenwood Cemetery in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Visit the Calendar of Events

Submit an Event for America 250 at UA

UA faculty and staff can submit events for consideration to be included on this website. Only events and activities aligning with America 250 and that are sponsored by departments, colleges/schools and divisions throughout campus will be considered for inclusion.