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

Upcoming Events

Made In America

May 8 – August 29, 2026

Visit the Gorgas House Museum from May 8 through August 29, 2026 to discover the American identity through the home! From our 1778 grandfather clock to the student magazines of the 2020s, Americans have long been inventive and dedicated to progress. Find an object in the house from every decade of the United States!

OL 131 Revolutionary Lives: Medicine, War and the Constitution: Separation of Powers in the U.S Consitution

June 17, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Join us online for our free public programs — and bring a friend!

This event is about the separation of powers in the U.S constitution – Dr. Joseph Smith.

Have questions? Visit the OLLI website at olli.ua.edu or contact the OLLI office at 205-348-6482 or olli@ua.edu.

OL 131 Revolutionary Lives: Medicine, War and the Constitution: Spanish Conquest of British West Florida During the American Revolution

June 24, 2026 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Join us online for our free public programs — and bring a friend!

This event is about the Spanish conquest of British West Florida during the American revolution. – Dr. Daniel Haulman.

Have questions? Visit the OLLI website at olli.ua.edu or contact the OLLI office at 205-348-6482 or olli@ua.edu.

City of Tuscaloosa to Celebrate America 250 with Fourth of July Celebration on the River

Saturday, July 4, from 6 to 9 p.m.

With numerous musicians and Board members affiliated with UA, the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra shines at Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater for a free, family-friendly celebration of America’s 250^th birthday on Saturday, July 4 from 6-9 p.m.

The event includes activities for kids, live music and fireworks over the Black Warrior River.

TUS 160 Songs of Americana: The Soundtrack of America at 250

Multiple dates – July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28 (12:00 – 1:15 p.m.)

Join us for a free public program — and bring a friend!

As we honor America250, this course explores the music that tells America’s story. From folk ballads and spirituals to blues, country and modern-day America, we will listen closely to the artists and lyrics that have shaped the nation’s cultural identity across generations. Together, we will examine how music reflects American history, struggle, faith, innovation and hope through the lens of artists whose songs capture the evolving American experience. No musical background is required, just curiosity and a love of storytelling through song. Each session will include guided listening, historical context and group discussion. Join us as we celebrate the United States of America’s 250th birthday by exploring the songs that have helped define who we are.

Have questions? Visit the OLLI website at olli.ua.edu or contact the OLLI office at 205-348-6482 or olli@ua.edu.

Blackburn Institute Annual Symposium

August 28-29, 2026

Considered the heart of the Blackburn experience, the annual symposium brings together Blackburn students, fellows, and advisory board members each year. The 2026 theme, “Toward a More Perfect Union: 250 Years of the American Experiment,” invites both celebration and critical reflection on our nation’s 250 year history. The Symposium keynote will be open to the public.

Past Events

A Memorial Day Weekend Concert with Denny Chimes

May 24, 2026 (2:00 p.m.-3:00 pm) – The Quad at The University of Alabama

University Carillonneur Dr. Amir Zaheri will present “A Memorial Day Weekend Concert with Denny Chimes” on Sunday, May 24, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on The Quad at The University of Alabama. The concert is free and open to the entire community.

The program features patriotic anthems, beloved folk songs, popular favorites, and timeless classics performed live on Denny Chimes. A brief moment of remembrance will be offered by the Reverend Robin C. Wilson, Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Tuscaloosa.

Dr. Amir Zaheri is a member of the School of Music faculty and serves as Head of Music Composition.

Voices of the Past, Revolutionary Stories at Greenwood Cemetary

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.

Voices of the past, revolutionary stories at greenwood cemetery, Saturday April 25, 2-4 p.m.

Cotton, Cloth, and Community: Alabama Quilting Traditions

The Gorgas House Museum, UA Museums, and the Barefield College of Arts & Sciences are excited to present “Cotton, Cloth, and Community: Alabama Quilting Traditions”

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.

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.