Join the Town of Greenwich at Town Hall for a very special Fourth of July Celebration at 9 a.m., Friday, July 4th, that kicks off a yearlong celebration in honor of America’s 250th birthday, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
To honor such a meaningful time in our history, Fred Camillo, first selectman of the Town of Greenwich, and Greenwich Historical Society have created the America 250 | Greenwich Commission, an affiliate of the America 250 | Connecticut Commission. Tasked with the mission to honor Greenwich’s contributions to the nation, tell inclusive stories, celebrate the power of place, and foster community through history, the Commission is currently encouraging community organizations and businesses to develop their own programs and events to celebrate America’s 250th.
“It is our hope,” noted Camillo, “that businesses and organizations in town will embrace the 250th anniversary and incorporate its themes into historical exhibitions, community gatherings, music and art programs, competitions, and educational projects that highlight our shared history and inspire a collective future.”
Signature events already in development include a visit by a tall ship to Greenwich Harbor in 2026 and expanded Independence Day festivities at Town Hall in 2025 and 2026. Church bells will ring and shofars will be blown at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 4. Businesses are showcasing their spirit with red, white, and blue. The American Red Cross will incorporate a 250th celebration into its Red & White Ball. Heirloom flowers and plants will be showcased by garden clubs, and sports teams will dress in period costume to demonstrate games from the time of our nation’s founding. Additional exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and educational student programs are planned in partnership with Greenwich Historical Society.
The America 250 | Greenwich Commission is asking all schools, nonprofits, businesses, and civic groups to think about how they can weave an ‘America 250’ theme into their existing or new programming during this celebratory year. “Greenwich played a proud role in the fight for independence,” noted Camillo, “and we’re ready to honor that legacy in ways that unite every corner of our town. We have such a creative community and are excited to see what everyone plans to help throw the biggest birthday party ever for our great nation.”
Organizations are encouraged to submit their America 250 event details to greenwichct.gov/america250 to have the events posted on the official Town of Greenwich America 250 calendar so residents and visitors can easily find and attend them.
“Whether it’s planting heirloom gardens, teaching the Constitution to third-graders, or adding the National Anthem to a concert, there are countless ways to participate,” said Barbara Ormerod-Glynn and Mary Ellen LeBien, Community Partners Committee co-chairs. “Our goal is an inclusive slate of events that reflects Greenwich’s diverse stories and the founding ideals that still guide us.”
For guidelines, ideas, or assistance, email america250@greenwichct.gov. Learn more at greenwichct.gov/america250
