By Tyler Amorando
As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, Greenwich is preparing to honor the milestone with a yearlong celebration that promises to reflect the town’s rich historical roots and vibrant civic spirit. Leading the charge locally are Mary Ellen LeBien and Barbara Ormerod-Glynn, co-chairs of the Community Partners Committee, a key subgroup within the larger America 250 Greenwich Commission.
The initiative, formally known as the Semi-quincentennial, follows national and state guidelines to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Greenwich, the effort is being spearheaded by the Greenwich Historical Society, at the request of First Selectman Fred Camillo. Overseeing the townwide celebration are Tom Galvin and Cynthia Chang, co-chairs of the America 250 Greenwich Commission.
“Our mission is to reach out to organizations in town and encourage them to plan events, either individually or collaboratively, that align with the four key goals of the commission,” said LeBien. “We’re aiming for a diverse and meaningful series of events that will culminate on July 4th, 2026.”
Since May, LeBien and Ormerod-Glynn have been busy building momentum. Their Community Partners Committee has already identified over 150 local organizations and recently hosted two well-attended public information sessions to help groups understand how to participate. The sessions drew thirty four nonprofits, representing historic, educational, artistic, religious, wellness, social service, and conservation sectors.
“The energy in the room was inspiring,” said Ormerod-Glynn. “There was so much cross-fertilization of ideas. It’s clear that Greenwich is eager to contribute to a celebration that will be both community-driven and deeply reflective of our shared values.”
One of the centerpiece events will be the arrival of the tall ship Oosterschelde in Greenwich Harbor on June 28th, 2026. Built in 1917, the Dutch ship’s name translates to “Eastern Scheldt,” referencing a river in Belgium. Docked at the Delamar, the ship will be open to the public and is expected to welcome up to two thousand visitors over the course of the day.
While visitors wait their turn to board the ship, they’ll be able to enjoy entertainment and educational activities in Roger Sherman Baldwin Park, curated by the commission. Other events planned include a 5K run co-sponsored by the Bruce Museum and Greenwich United Way, a 1776-themed trivia contest by the Greenwich Alliance for Education, a Let Freedom Ring handbell concert by the Norwood Garden Club, and numerous performances by the Greenwich Arts Council and Young Artists Philharmonic focusing on American composers and period music.
Additionally, the Greenwich Symphony will adapt their programming to feature the national anthem at the start of each concert throughout the year. The American Red Cross will honor military service with a red-and-white ball, and the Daughters of the American Revolution’s Horseneck Chapter will sponsor a Constitution Bee for public school third graders. Even Coffee for Good will participate, hosting a red, white, and blue-themed art exhibit in spring 2026.
LeBien and Ormerod-Glynn emphasized that events can be new or adapted from ongoing programming. “It’s exciting to see how organizations are taking what they already do and adding a patriotic twist,” said LeBien.
For any organization looking to host an event on town property, a Special Event Permit Process will be required. Applications go through the Parks and Recreation Department, with approvals typically taking about four months and requiring insurance and coordination with town departments like police, fire, and EMS.
Notably, the town itself is not providing direct funding for events, except in relation to the tall ship and Roger Sherman Baldwin Park activities. Most groups will be self-funding or seeking sponsorships.
The Community Partners Committee is actively seeking more participants and will be hosting additional public sessions in August and September. Interested organizations can submit event proposals directly through the town’s America 250 Greenwich website (greenwichct.gov/2861/America-250-Greenwich-CT). Submissions include a short questionnaire outlining the organization, the proposed event, its date and location, and whether permitting will be needed.
Once approved, the event will be added to the town’s America 250 calendar, promoted in the First Selectman’s Friday Community Connections newsletter, and shared on social media. The town’s official photographer, Bob Capazzo, will document events throughout the celebration.
For questions or to reach the Community Partners Committee, residents and nonprofit groups can email America250@greenwichct.org
“This will be a continuing yearlong effort on our part,” said LeBien. “We’re hoping it becomes a yearlong celebration for everyone in Greenwich.”
