Illinois America 250 Events
Browse upcoming events from individuals and organizations throughout Illinois.
Interested in hosting your own? View available resources and contact us to tell us about your event.
Lincoln’s Signed Emancipation Proclamation on Display
This June, plan a trip to Springfield to see a rare, signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation—on display for a limited time at the ALPLM Library Building with no admission fee.
On display weekdays, June 13-26. Special Saturday viewing June 14.
Signed by President Lincoln, Sec of State Seward, and Lincoln’s aide John Nicolay. Fewer than 30 signed copies exist today.
Juneteenth: Annual Community BBQ
It’s that time of year again—we’re gearing up for our annual Juneteenth Community BBQ! This year, Juneteenth falls during the Black Power Era month of study in our yearlong Introduction to African American Studies course, and we are proud to celebrate the spirit and legacy of Black Power as part of the day’s festivities.
Join us for a full day of celebration, reflection, and community! Enjoy a vibrant mix of education, entertainment, food, and local vendors as we honor Black history, culture, and freedom. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors—there’s something for everyone. Stay tuned for more details and get ready to celebrate Juneteenth with purpose and pride!
Free; RSVP required.
On Our 250th Wish Wall at Lincoln Presidential Foundation
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Lincoln Presidential Foundation, in partnership with The New York Historical and Made By US, launches On Our 250th—a dynamic, nationwide initiative celebrating our collective heritage and inspiring a forward-looking dialogue. On Our 250th invites Americans of all ages to share brief messages that convey their hopes for our nation on this momentous anniversary online and in person at participating museums.
In collaboration with leading museums and historic sites from across the country … the campaign ensures that voices from every corner of the nation will be heard and celebrated.
Online, messages between five and 50 words can be posted to onour250th.org. Lincoln Presidential Foundation will host an onsite “Wish Wall” from Juneteenth to July 4, 2025, at Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, IL. At The New York Historical visitors can share their messages with sticky notes that will be displayed on-site later this year. The number of participating museums is expected to grow as 2026 approaches. Offering a megaphone to Americans of all ages and backgrounds, this campaign reflects a long American tradition of citizens using their voices, harkening back to Patrick Henry’s historic call for unity: “I am not a Virginian, but an American.”
From April 25, 2025 press release via Lincoln Presidential Foundation
Founders - Mobile Monument for Civic Season at Chicago History Museum
This year, presented in collaboration with the Floating Museum, the Chicago History Museum (CHM) is hosting the Founders inflatable at CHM on June 21, 2025, in support of Civic Season and to further promote awareness of underrepresented parts of Chicago’s history. During the program, the inflatable will be further activated with performances and related hands-on arts-making activities for youth and families.
Founders is a mobile monument and collaboration between Floating Museum, Chris Pappan (Kanza/Osage, Lakota), and Monica Rickert Bolter (Potawatomi/African-American/German).
Wellington Book Club: Frederick Douglass
Join the Wellington Book Club Saturday, June 21st at 10:00am on Zoom to start discussing Frederick Douglass by David W. Blight. Dr. Clinton Stockwell will lead our discussion on the first half - through Secession (p. 334). Professor Dick Simpson will lead the discussion on the second half of the book on July 19 at 10 a.m. on Zoom.
For more information on the book and this meet! ing, check out Book Club (every third Saturday) – Wellington United Church of Christ
The Underground Railroad in Metamora
The involvement of Metamora and its surrounding community in the Underground Railroad is a significant, yet largely unknown, aspect of Central Illinois history. Prior to assuming the presidency, Abraham Lincoln defended local “conductors” from Metamora. This issue ultimately pitted neighbors versus neighbors, and the potential for financial gain from capturing freedom seekers made Metamora a dangerous place.
This documentary aims to preserve the stories of Metamora’s crucial role during this contentious period in American history for future generations.
The documentary is a production of Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation in association with
Metamora Association for Historic Preservation. This film was made possible from the support of Illinois Humanities.
THIS IS A FREE EVENT. TICKETS ARE NOT REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION. SEATING IS ONLY LIMITED TO VENUE CAPACITY AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. FOR GROUPS OR ASSISTANCE, PLEASE EMAIL SCREENINGS@TENTHIRTYONE.ORG.
Independence Day: Shaping Chicago's Next Chapter
Included with general admission. Free ticket day for IL residents.
What actions will you take to be a more engaged citizen? How will you stay informed about issues affecting your community? Find inspiration, connect with community-serving organizations, and explore your creativity with multiple civic art workshops. Together, we’re learning from the past to write a better future. What will your chapter add to Chicago’s story?
Batavia’s Fourth of July Fireworks and Sky Concert
This firework show and the accompanying concert is held each year on the Fourth of July at Engstrom Family Park in Batavia. The event includes food vendors and music by the Batavia Community Band. The fireworks show is organized by volunteers and funded through donations and fundraisers throughout the year, including the City-wide Garage Sale in May.
Marine Corps 250th in Chicago
The Marine Corps is excited to announce it will visit Chicago in July 2025 to celebrate our 250th birthday!
Marine Week Chicago will feature an array of military equipment, aircraft, military bands, and opportunities to interact with your Marines.
Marines will set up static displays of military equipment that the community can interact with and will participate in community relations projects across Chicago.
Join us in July to celebrate 250 years of winning our nation’s battles.
Check back closer to the event to find more information. Semper Fi!
IL250 at the State Fair
Illinois America 250 will have a table in the Governor’s Tent at the Illinois State Fair, taking place at the Springfield Fairgrounds from August 7-17.
Daily fair schedule: https://statefair.illinois.gov/info/schedules.html
MORE DETAIL TO COME.
WTTW Presents: An Evening with Ken Burns
You’re invited to join Ken Burns and WTTW for an unforgettable evening at The Auditorium in Chicago on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 7:30 pm.
What: WTTW Presents: An Evening with Ken Burns
Where: The Auditorium, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, in Chicago
When: Thursday, September 25, 7:30 pm
This special preview event will feature selections from the epic new six-part, 12-hour film, The American Revolution, and a behind-the-scenes conversation with Ken Burns and filmmakers.
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, a film by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, explores how thirteen British colonies won independence and created a new government that reshaped the continent and inspired centuries of democratic movements around the globe. The AMERICAN REVOLUTION premieres on WTTW in November 2025.
General public tickets available starting June 13th at 10 am Central. https://www.axs.com/events/974869/an-evening-with-ken-burns-tickets
International Jazz Day
UNESCO has announced that the 15th annual International Jazz Day will take place in a city known for its incredible contributions to the history and future of Jazz: Chicago, Illinois.
From the DCASE press announcement: “The City of Chicago is proud to announce it has been selected as the official host city for UNESCO’s International Jazz Day 2026, the world’s largest celebration of jazz and its power to unite communities across the globe. The announcement, made by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, sets the stage for a historic celebration on April 30, 2026, spotlighting Chicago’s legendary contributions to jazz, blues, and global music culture.
Since its inception in 2012, International Jazz Day has traveled the world—from Paris to Havana, Sydney to St. Petersburg—connecting people through the language of music. Chicago’s selection comes at a powerful moment in time, aligning with the 250th anniversary of the United States, the 100th birthday of Miles Davis, and the anticipated opening of the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side.”
AMERICA TURNS 250: A Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of America in Music
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra lowers the curtain on our 48th season by celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This Semiquincentennial celebration features music by Joan Tower, Jessie Montgomery, John Philip Sousa and concludes with Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait. This paid/ticketed event is being performed by the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra in Palos Heights, IL on May 16th, 2026.
Tickets: https://ipomusic.org/2025-26-season/
America 250: A Musical Journey
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to appearances by guest artists and jazz ensembles, these curated programs reflect the country’s resilience, creativity and musical traditions.
Highlights include Wynton Marsalis’ Liberty Symphony with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra — blending jazz, blues and classical influences — and Conrad Tao’s recital with music by American composers. Works by Copland, Gershwin and Ives explore the nation’s enduring spirit, culminating in epic performances of John Williams’ iconic Star Wars: A New Hope score live to film.
Be part of this dynamic, monthlong journey through the landscape of American music.
Flag Day Commemorations at Flag Day Monument
Celebrate Flag Day and honor America's rich history and the spirit of community with us on **Saturday, June 14, 2025**! This year, as we mark **250 years since Paul Revere’s Ride, the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and the birth of the United States Army**, let's come together to celebrate unity, pride, and the joy of shared traditions.
**📍 Event Schedule:**
1️⃣ **Presentation on the Father of Flag Day**
🕐 **1:00 PM - 2:00 PM**
📌 **City Council Chambers, City Hall** (100 N Island Ave, Batavia, IL)
Dive into history with a captivating presentation about Bernard Cigrand, the Father of Flag Day, by Illinois author Tom Emery, featuring his new book *"Stories of Historic Illinois Women."* Sponsored by the **Batavia Historical Society**.
2️⃣ **Annual Flag Day Celebration at the Flag Day Monument**
🕑 **2:00 PM - 4:00 PM**
📌 **Flag Day Monument** (across from Batavia City Hall)
- Musical performances by the Batavia Community Band 🎶
- Inspirational speakers
- Unveiling of new personalized bricks
- Sealing of time capsules 🕰️
- Guided tours of the monument
Featuring special guests like the **Fox Valley Patriotic Organization**, **Sons, Daughters, and Children of the American Revolution**, **Knights of Columbus Honor Guard**, SAR **Color Guard**, Veterans, City of Batavia First Responders, and Scouts.
🌐 Visit [flagdaymonument.com](http://flagdaymonument.com) for details.
3️⃣ **Festivities at Batavia Overseas VFW Post 1197**
🕓 **4:00 PM - 6:00 PM**
📌 **VFW Post 1197** (645 S River Rd, Batavia, IL)
Wrap up the day with:
- Fun-filled games 🎯
- Mouthwatering food trucks 🍔
- Drinks at the remodeled VFW bar 🍹
- Presentations on American history
- Revolutionary War marches 🥁
🎉 This celebration isn’t just about history—it’s about **community pride**, **unity**, and **fun** for everyone! Bring your family and friends, and let’s honor the past while building connections for the future. Together, we’ll make this Flag Day unforgettable!
#BataviaFlagDay #FlagDayCelebration #America250 #CommunityUnity #FunForAll #BataviaIllinois #HistoricalEvents
Lincoln's "Lost Speech" Mural Dedication Ceremony
On Thursday, May 29 at 5:25 p.m., the Museum will dedicate a mural in downtown Bloomington that will celebrate Lincoln and his famous “Lost Speech.” The Illinois 33rd Regimental Band will perform a concert beginning at 4:45 p.m. on the east steps of the Museum. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the show with the program to follow at 5:25 p.m. Local Lincoln Scholar Guy Fraker will provide remarks during the program.
Lincoln’s Lost Speech was the closing oration at the Bloomington Convention on May 29, 1856, which united several political parties in the anti-slavery movement and led to the founding of the Illinois Republican Party. Lincoln’s speech is one of the most pivotal points in his political career and ultimately led to his election as president.
The mural, designed and painted by artist Troy Freeman from Freesky Studios will be located across the street from Major’s Hall, on the west facing wall of Rosie’s Pub, where Lincoln delivered his famous “Lost Speech. Major’s Hall no longer stands, but is now the site of the Lincoln Parking Garage on Front Street.
4:45 p.m. – Preconcert of period Civil War music: 33rd Illinois Regimental Reenactment Band
5:25 p.m. – “Hail to the Chief”: Comments from Mr. Lincoln [impersonator] & Museum Leadership
5:35 p.m. – History of the Mural Project/coloring contest winners: Norris Porter, Director of Development (MCMH)
5:45 p.m. – Thoughts surrounding the “Lost Speech”: Guy Fraker, local Lincoln Scholar
6:00 p.m. – Playing of Dixie and promenade with Mr. Lincoln from the Museum to the mural (1 block)
In case of inclement weather, the event will be held at Second Presbyterian Church. For more information, please visit mchistory.org.
Re-Writing the Declaration
Part ritual, part performance, Re-Writing the Declaration invites the audience into an evolving conversation about freedom, belonging, and who gets to write history.
Guided by 2024/25 Performance resident Quenna Lené Barrett, we journey through past iterations of the work, weaving together memory, movement, and collective dreaming. Rooted in the Movement for Black Lives, this participatory performance centers Black women, femmes, nonbinary, and trans people of color to imagine a future where we are all truly free. Expect to build something together: a table, a poem, a playlist, a vision. Colonial wigs might come out. So might your voice.
Through video, sound, and live interaction, the past folds into the present to ask urgent questions about the stories we’ve inherited—and the ones we need now. You won’t just witness the show; you’ll shape it. Come ready to listen, reflect, speak, and create. Because this declaration isn't just being rewritten. It's being reclaimed.
Registration at the link below.
Becoming the United States of America: Songs of Liberty, Justice, and Unity
This year’s theme is “Becoming the United States of America: Songs of Liberty, Justice, and Unity.”
This theme marks the beginning of commemorating our country’s 250th anniversary. The American Revolution, which led to founding the United States, began in Massachusetts in April 1775. It culminated in adopting the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776; the official 250th is on July 4, 2026.
America250, a non-partisan initiative, is the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. The Commission will inspire and orchestrate many events. We are hosting this event to help kick off the celebration. We’ll explore the ideals of liberty, justice, and unity through the power of song.
Tickets: https://woodstockfolkfestival.org/
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Submit Your Event
Illinois America 250 is gathering event submissions from communities and organizations across the state. Opt-in to have your event be added to the national America 250 interactive map.