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

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

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

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.

Cincinnati Reds Home Games

Join us in Signing the Promise at Cincinnati Reds home games throughout the 2026 season.

📍 Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati

2026 home games schedule:

April 10–12 vs Angels
April 14–16 vs Giants
April 24–26 vs Tigers
April 28–30 vs Rockies

May 8–10 vs Astros
May 12–14 vs Nationals
May 22–24 vs Cardinals
May 29–31 vs Braves

June 1–3 vs Royals
June 12–14 vs D-backs
June 15–17 vs Mets
June 22–24 vs Brewers

July 3–5 vs Orioles
July 7–9 vs Phillies
July 10–12 vs Cubs
July 27–29 vs Guardians
July 30–31 vs Pirates

August 1–2 vs Pirates
August 4–6 vs Athletics
August 14–16 vs Marlins
August 17–20 vs Cardinals
August 31 vs Padres

September 1–2 vs Padres
September 4–6 vs Brewers
September 14–17 vs Dodgers
September 18–20 vs Cubs

SPECIAL EVENTS

Giant National Capital BBQ Battle June 27–28, 2026

America’s Food & Music Festival

Join us as we celebrate Giant Food’s 90th Anniversary at the Giant BBQ Battle, part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th birthday

📍 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (3rd–7th Street) Washington DC

🔗 For more information & tickets visit: https://bbqindc.com/

Did you know Giant started right here in DC in 1936? This year’s massive street party honors that hometown legacy alongside a historic moment for the country.

WHY YOU CAN'T MISS IT

• The “Free Food” Factor •
Your ticket unlocks the Taste of Giant Sampling Pavilion and more, where over 100+ entrée, side item and dessert samples will be served.

• The BBQ Battle Pit •
Watch world-class pit-masters compete for $50,000 in prizes in the National Pork Championship and Kingsford Great American cook-off contests.

• Music & Thrills •
4 stages of live music featuring Rock, Reggae, Go-Go & Blues legends, plus Celebrity, chefs, National cookbook, authors, Eating Contests, and more!

• DC Sports Zone •
Shoot hoops, test your skills, and meet players and mascots from the Washington Wizards, Capitals, Go-Go, mystic, Nationals, DC United, Washington, Spirit, and Washington Commanders

• 51 Steps Experience •
An interactive AR journey through DC history and Giant’s roots plus the 51 Steps to Freedom History Wall on the Mall.

• Americana at its Best •
Snap a photo and digitally sign the Declaration of Independence, climb into the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, pose with Mr. Peanut at the Planters Nutmobile. Then enjoy free, kids rides, face painting, hands-on activities, and games.

TICKETS & PRO TIPS

• Pricing •
One-Day Pass: ~$20
Weekend Pass: ~$30
Kids under 12: FREE

• Free admission offer •
Buy any two participating BBQ items at Giant Food in June and receive a Buy One, Get One FREE ticket coupon.

• Buy Online •
Get tickets at https://bbqindc.com/ or on Eventbrite

GETTING THERE

• Metro •
Archives–Navy Memorial or Smithsonian stops

• Bike •
Free Bike Valet at 3rd St & Jefferson Dr SW

Cherry Blossom Cocktail Party • April 4

Blossoms, Beauty & Secret Doors at O Museum in The Mansion

📍 2020 O Street N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036

A one-of-a-kind spring celebration in Washington, DC, where culture, beauty, and hidden worlds come together for an unforgettable evening. Blossoms, Beauty & Secret Doors offers a rare opportunity to meet Cherry Blossom Princesses from across the United States while exploring the iconic O Museum in The Mansion.

Part of the Sign the Promise series, this event invites you to engage with history, storytelling, and shared traditions at the O Museum

Experience it for yourself. Find out more information at:

St. Michaels League of Women’s Voters • DC • April 15

At 51 Steps to Freedom, the St. Michaels League of Women Voters will step into an immersive journey through America’s past and present. As part of the Sign the Promise initiative, participants will also add their names to the Declaration of Independence, connecting its founding ideals to a renewed commitment in the present day. Using augmented reality, music, and storytelling, participants will unlock powerful moments of history exactly where they happened, transforming the city into a living, interactive experience.

As part of this one-of-a-kind trail, guests are invited not just to witness history, but to engage with it—reflecting on the ideals of freedom, civic responsibility, and the role each of us plays in shaping what comes next.

Mrs. Rosa Parks Awards • May 7

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. Awardees: Marie Marable-Bunch, Adele Lim, Richard Bynam and Marla Blow. Performance by Quiana Parker, 2 Time Grammy Winner, Ranky Tanky.

This is a ticketed event and an opportunity to support O Museum’s vital work.

Scripps National Spelling Bee • May 26-28

At the Scripps National Spelling Bee, every word carries meaning. This year, that meaning extends beyond the stage.

Signing the Promise, presented by 51 Steps To Freedom, invites students, families, and visitors into a first-of-its-kind immersive experience where history comes alive through augmented reality. Participants will not only witness the stories that shaped America—they’ll become part of them by digitally signing a modern Declaration of Independence.

More than an activation, it’s a national invitation to reflect, reconnect, and recommit to the ideals that unite us—one word, one promise, one voice at a time.

National Prayer Gathering • DC • May 17

📍 National Mall, Washington, DC

Come together with neighbors and friends from every corner of our nation to give thanks and praise to God for 250 years of His providence over the United States.

Through speech, music, and storytelling, we will reflect on the remarkable story of America—honoring the people, sacrifices, and defining moments that have shaped our history.

As part of this experience, guests are invited to step into history through an interactive augmented reality journey. Sign the Constitution, explore the stories of our nation’s founding, and watch figures like Frederick Douglass come to life—engaging with powerful moments that highlight freedom, civic responsibility, and opportunity.

This is more than a gathering. It is a rare and meaningful national moment to pause, reflect, and stand together.

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.

Great American State Fair • June 25 – July 10

The National Mall transforms into the biggest, boldest state fair in the country.

From Maine lobster rolls to Hawaii’s shimmering hula stage, Texas-sized steaks to Alaska’s towering ice carvings, all fifty states, territories, and federal agencies come together to showcase their food, culture, and pride in one unforgettable, coast-to-coast celebration.

Taste your way across America, experience traditions from every corner of the nation, and immerse yourself in a vibrant festival that brings the full spirit of the country to one iconic place.

Along the way, step into the story of America itself through an interactive augmented reality experience—sign the Constitution, explore the nation’s founding, and watch figures like Frederick Douglass come to life as you engage with powerful moments that highlight freedom, civic responsibility, and opportunity.

This is more than a fair—it’s America, all in one place.

Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library • July 4

The North Dakota Badlands, where Theodore Roosevelt was shaped, set the stage for the opening of a landmark new presidential library.

Experience Roosevelt’s legacy of conservation, leadership, and citizenship through immersive exhibits and storytelling set within the landscape that defined him.

As part of this historic moment, guests are invited to engage with America’s story through an immersive augmented reality experience, bringing history to life and digitally signing a living Declaration of Independence as part of a nationwide recommitment to freedom and the American promise.

Opening alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary, this is a moment to reflect on leadership, legacy, and the role we each play in shaping what comes next.

📍350 3rd Ave., Medora, ND 58645

Girl Scouts National Convention • July 20–25

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

Freedom 250 Grand Prix • National Mall • August 21–23

A first-of-its-kind open-wheel street race takes over the streets surrounding the National Mall as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES brings high-speed racing to the heart of Washington, D.C.

World-class drivers navigate tight corners and long straights framed by iconic landmarks, delivering a weekend of adrenaline, precision, and nonstop energy. From qualifying laps to the main event, this is motorsport at its most electrifying.

Beyond the track, fans can engage with America’s story through an immersive augmented reality experience, bringing history to life and digitally signing a living Declaration of Independence as part of a nationwide recommitment to freedom and the American promise.

This is more than a race. It’s a celebration of speed, innovation, and 250 years of American spirit.

Partners

Freedom 250 Icon - RGB - White - Gold.png

Founding Organizations

DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities

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

Support Us

Sign the Promise anywhere as part of a national movement—or visit Washington, DC to experience it on the 51 Steps to Freedom Trail, where augmented reality, animation, music, and storytelling bring history to life.

Join us by signing the Promise wherever you are—at home, in your neighborhood, on a global military base, at a sporting event, concert, house of worship, hotel, or even around your kitchen table. Digitally sign a living version of the Declaration of Independence, reaffirming the ideals first embraced 250 years ago by its 56 signers.

Voices of figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson come alive through augmented reality, letting participants step into America’s founding. After signing, celebrate—launch digital fireworks, offer a digital prayer, light a lantern, or ignite a drone show—to create a personal and collective expression of freedom.

In Washington, DC, the 51 Steps to Freedom Trail—an eight‑mile augmented reality tour across historic neighborhoods and landmarks—connects you with America’s journey toward liberty. From the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol, and White House to local neighborhood stories, history comes alive where it happened.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the 51 Steps to Freedom Trail highlights people and places across DC neighborhoods—Anacostia, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and the U Street Corridor—where culture and history converge. Augmented reality reveals untold stories, inviting every visitor to engage with America’s ongoing narrative.

By donating, volunteering, or sponsoring a stop—or all stops on the Trail, you help preserve these stories of freedom and ensure they remain accessible. Your support advances our mission to create an inclusive liberty trail and nationwide civic engagement movement.

Whether signing the Promise from afar, sponsoring a stop, or exploring the Trail in person, your participation makes this moment in history meaningful—bringing past voices into today’s conversations about our shared future.

DONATE

Washington, DC — and America — have a story of the journey for liberty and opportunity.
Join us in preserving and sharing this story. Sign your promise to support and inspire the next generation.