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NATIONAL EVENTS CALENDAR
Sign the Promise anywhere and be part of a nationwide movement, or step into history in Washington, DC with the 51 Steps to Freedom Trail. Augmented reality, animations, music, and immersive storytelling bring both experiences to life—one journey, two ways to connect with America’s story.
ON-GOING EVENTS
Sail 4th 250,
May 23 - August 14
Sail4th 250 is a once-in-a-lifetime maritime spectacle celebrating America’s 250th anniversary! This historic event will feature the largest international tall ship parade ever held in the NY/NJ Harbor, with over 30 majestic Class A ships from over 30 countries.
Starting in New Orleans, the parade will journey through iconic U.S. ports, featuring a stunning array of naval and aerial reviews, fireworks, and parades.
With 8–10 million spectators expected, Sail4th 250 will be the largest peacetime maritime gathering in American history—a celebration not to be missed!
Sign The Declaration of Independence at the following ports and berths.
Full Sail4th 250 Tour Schedule:
— May 23 – June 7, 2026: New Orleans Harbor
— June 11–14, 2026: Charleston, SC
— June 19–22, 2026: Norfolk, VA
— June 25–28, 2026: Baltimore, MD
NYC & NJ Berth Locations (July 3–8, 2026):
NYC Berths:
— Pier 17, South Street
— Seaport – Iconic views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
— Brooklyn Bridge Park – Incredible views of Lower Manhattan and the ships.
— Battery Park City – Panoramic waterfront views near the tip of Manhattan.
NJ Berths:
— Sandy Hook Bay – Scenic anchorage with views of the harbor.
— Liberty Landing Marina (Jersey City, NJ)
— July 6, 2026: Ticker-tape parade in NYC
— July 11–14, 2026: Boston, MA
— July 24–27, 2026: Portland, ME
— July 31 – August 3, 2026: Newport, RI
— August 7–10, 2026: Greenport, NY
— August 14, 2026: New London, CT
Starting in New Orleans, the parade will journey through iconic U.S. ports, featuring a stunning array of naval and aerial reviews, fireworks, and parades.
With 8–10 million spectators expected, Sail4th 250 will be the largest peacetime maritime gathering in American history—a celebration not to be missed!
Sign The Declaration of Independence at the following ports and berths.
Full Sail4th 250 Tour Schedule:
— May 23 – June 7, 2026: New Orleans Harbor
— June 11–14, 2026: Charleston, SC
— June 19–22, 2026: Norfolk, VA
— June 25–28, 2026: Baltimore, MD
NYC & NJ Berth Locations (July 3–8, 2026):
NYC Berths:
— Pier 17, South Street
— Seaport – Iconic views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
— Brooklyn Bridge Park – Incredible views of Lower Manhattan and the ships.
— Battery Park City – Panoramic waterfront views near the tip of Manhattan.
NJ Berths:
— Sandy Hook Bay – Scenic anchorage with views of the harbor.
— Liberty Landing Marina (Jersey City, NJ)
— July 6, 2026: Ticker-tape parade in NYC
— July 11–14, 2026: Boston, MA
— July 24–27, 2026: Portland, ME
— July 31 – August 3, 2026: Newport, RI
— August 7–10, 2026: Greenport, NY
— August 14, 2026: New London, CT
Sign The Promise
In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the Declaration of Independence — a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on our founding ideals and recommit to the promise that belongs to all of us.
At a time when millions of Americans are seeking meaning, belonging, and connection, America's 250th is more than a celebration — it’s a national invitation to participate in a shared story that includes everyone.
At the heart of this effort is Signing the American Promise — a year-long, immersive augmented reality activation that blends storytelling, music, and cutting edge technology to bring history to life in public spaces across all 50 states, 14 U.S. territories, and every military base worldwide. Anchored by the 51 Steps to Freedom®️ Trail in Washington, DC — the largest outdoor museum in the world — this experience turns commemoration into civic re-engagement.
Participants will experience George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others come to life through AR.
They’ll digitally sign a living Declaration of Independence, joining millions in a national recommitment to liberty and self-government. They’ll launch digital fireworks, discover untold stories, and leave their mark on a growing digital archive of America’s future — one voice at a time.
SCHEDULE BY STATE, TERRITORY, BASE
— By State: A-F
— By State: G-L
— By State: M-R
— By State: S-W
At a time when millions of Americans are seeking meaning, belonging, and connection, America's 250th is more than a celebration — it’s a national invitation to participate in a shared story that includes everyone.
At the heart of this effort is Signing the American Promise — a year-long, immersive augmented reality activation that blends storytelling, music, and cutting edge technology to bring history to life in public spaces across all 50 states, 14 U.S. territories, and every military base worldwide. Anchored by the 51 Steps to Freedom®️ Trail in Washington, DC — the largest outdoor museum in the world — this experience turns commemoration into civic re-engagement.
Participants will experience George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others come to life through AR.
They’ll digitally sign a living Declaration of Independence, joining millions in a national recommitment to liberty and self-government. They’ll launch digital fireworks, discover untold stories, and leave their mark on a growing digital archive of America’s future — one voice at a time.
SCHEDULE BY STATE, TERRITORY, BASE
— By State: A-F
— By State: G-L
— By State: M-R
— By State: S-W
51 Steps To Freedom Tour
Hidden history comes to life in the palm of your hand!
Explore Washington, DC through a first-of-its-kind augmented reality experience.
Watch history unfold right where it happened.
Uncover powerful moments of courage, resilience, and ingenuity that make America the land of opportunity.
Fun for families, students, and history lovers of all ages.
Free tickets or pay what you can. Your donation will support the continued development of this groundbreaking project and help bring more stories to life.
Please note: Once you get your ticket, you'll download the Hoverlay browser on your device and find the 51 Steps to Freedom channel. The app requires an augmented reality-capable device running iOS 14 or later or Android 8.0 or later, and will request permission to use your camera and location services.
Explore Washington, DC through a first-of-its-kind augmented reality experience.
Watch history unfold right where it happened.
Uncover powerful moments of courage, resilience, and ingenuity that make America the land of opportunity.
Fun for families, students, and history lovers of all ages.
Explore Washington, DC through a first-of-its-kind augmented reality experience.
Watch history unfold right where it happened.
Uncover powerful moments of courage, resilience, and ingenuity that make America the land of opportunity.
Fun for families, students, and history lovers of all ages.
Free tickets or pay what you can. Your donation will support the continued development of this groundbreaking project and help bring more stories to life.
Please note: Once you get your ticket, you'll download the Hoverlay browser on your device and find the 51 Steps to Freedom channel. The app requires an augmented reality-capable device running iOS 14 or later or Android 8.0 or later, and will request permission to use your camera and location services.
Explore Washington, DC through a first-of-its-kind augmented reality experience.
Watch history unfold right where it happened.
Uncover powerful moments of courage, resilience, and ingenuity that make America the land of opportunity.
Fun for families, students, and history lovers of all ages.
Cincinnati Reds Home Games
SPECIAL EVENTS
Giant BBQ Battle, June 27 - 28
Come celebrate Giant Food’s 90th Anniversary at the Giant BBQ Battle.
Did you know Giant started right here in DC in 1936, and this year’s massive street party celebrates that local legacy alongside America’s 250th.
— Why You Can't Miss It
• The "Free Food" Factor: Your ticket is a golden key to the Taste of Giant Sampling Pavilion, where 100+ brands hand out full-sized samples all day long.
• The BBQ Battle Pit: Watch world-class pitmasters compete for $50,000 in prizes at the National Pork Championship and the Military Chef’s Cook-Off.
• Music & Thrills: 4 stages of live music (featuring the Chuck Brown Band and Go-Go legends), Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest qualifiers, and BMX freestyle stunt shows.
• Sports Zone: Shoot hoops and meet mascots from the Wizards and Capitals in the Monumental Sports Zone.
• 51 Steps: an AR journey through DC history and Giant’s roots
• Visit the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile — where you can digitally sign The Declaration of Independence.
— Tickets & Pro-Tips
• Pricing: One-Day Pass (~$20) | Weekend (~$30) | Kids under 12 are FREE.
• The BOGO Hack: Buy any two participatingBBQ items at Giant Food in June to snag a
• Buy One, Get One Free ticket coupon.
• Buy Online: Grab your tickets at BBQDC.com or via Eventbrite.
— Getting There
ª Metro: Head to Archives-Navy Memorial or Smithsonian.
• Bike: Use the Free Bike Valet at 3rd & Jefferson Dr. SW
Did you know Giant started right here in DC in 1936, and this year’s massive street party celebrates that local legacy alongside America’s 250th.
— Why You Can't Miss It
• The "Free Food" Factor: Your ticket is a golden key to the Taste of Giant Sampling Pavilion, where 100+ brands hand out full-sized samples all day long.
• The BBQ Battle Pit: Watch world-class pitmasters compete for $50,000 in prizes at the National Pork Championship and the Military Chef’s Cook-Off.
• Music & Thrills: 4 stages of live music (featuring the Chuck Brown Band and Go-Go legends), Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest qualifiers, and BMX freestyle stunt shows.
• Sports Zone: Shoot hoops and meet mascots from the Wizards and Capitals in the Monumental Sports Zone.
• 51 Steps: an AR journey through DC history and Giant’s roots
• Visit the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile — where you can digitally sign The Declaration of Independence.
— Tickets & Pro-Tips
• Pricing: One-Day Pass (~$20) | Weekend (~$30) | Kids under 12 are FREE.
• The BOGO Hack: Buy any two participatingBBQ items at Giant Food in June to snag a
• Buy One, Get One Free ticket coupon.
• Buy Online: Grab your tickets at BBQDC.com or via Eventbrite.
— Getting There
ª Metro: Head to Archives-Navy Memorial or Smithsonian.
• Bike: Use the Free Bike Valet at 3rd & Jefferson Dr. SW
Mrs. Rosa Parks Awards,
May 7, 2026
Join us at O Museum in the Mansion for the Mrs. Rosa Parks Awards, and experience the Mrs. Rosa Parks Augmented Reality Activation, and Signing the Promise.
These awards honor individuals whose lives and work reflect the enduring values of courage, integrity, service, and creative excellence. Inspired by the legacy of Mrs. Rosa Parks—who lived at O Museum from 1994 to 2004. Each honoree exemplifies the quiet strength that defined Mrs. Parks’ life and continues to guide the mission of O Museum.
This is a ticketed event and an opportunity to support O Museum’s vital work. LEARN MORE: https://www.omuseum.org/gala
These awards honor individuals whose lives and work reflect the enduring values of courage, integrity, service, and creative excellence. Inspired by the legacy of Mrs. Rosa Parks—who lived at O Museum from 1994 to 2004. Each honoree exemplifies the quiet strength that defined Mrs. Parks’ life and continues to guide the mission of O Museum.
This is a ticketed event and an opportunity to support O Museum’s vital work. LEARN MORE: https://www.omuseum.org/gala
Midshore Constitution Alliance, June 13
Talbot County Library — St. Michaels, MD
Celebrate Flag Day! Join us for a special celebration where history comes alive!
Sign the Constitution through an interactive Augmented Reality experience and explore the stories of our nation’s founding. See Frederick Douglass come to life and engage with educational programs that honor freedom, civic responsibility, and opportunity.
Celebrate Flag Day! Join us for a special celebration where history comes alive!
Sign the Constitution through an interactive Augmented Reality experience and explore the stories of our nation’s founding. See Frederick Douglass come to life and engage with educational programs that honor freedom, civic responsibility, and opportunity.
Girl Scouts National Convention, July 20–22
Washington, DC
National Girl Scouts of the USA Convention 10,000 participants Delegates (girls and adults) from councils across the U.S. and overseas gather at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in DC.
— First Ever Girl Scouts Augmented Reality Adventure. Win a patch!
— Sign the Emancipation Proclamation, Declaration of Independence and US Constitution
National Girl Scouts of the USA Convention 10,000 participants Delegates (girls and adults) from councils across the U.S. and overseas gather at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in DC.
— First Ever Girl Scouts Augmented Reality Adventure. Win a patch!
— Sign the Emancipation Proclamation, Declaration of Independence and US Constitution
Partners
Founding Organizations
DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities
Destination DC
DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment
DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment
DC History Center
Founding Partners
Metropolitan Washington Airports
Girl Scouts of the Nations Capital
PNC Foundation
DC Chamber of Commerce
Washington Urban League
Industrial Bank
O Museum in the Mansion
Ben's Chili Bowl Foundation
Reston Limousine
The Theatre Lab
Washington Hispanic Chamber
African American Civil War Memorial
Graham Holdings
Link Strategic Partners
CRP, Incorporated
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