America 250: Pelham, AL
About America 250 in Pelham
On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone, known as America 250, offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead to the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
Across the country, communities are coming together to mark this moment, and Alabama is playing a significant role in the celebration. Many statewide activities will be centered at American Village, located right here in Shelby County, serving as a hub for education, reflection, and patriotic celebration.
The City of Pelham is proud to join this national and statewide effort. An America 250 flag now flies over Pelham City Hall as a symbol of our community’s commitment to honoring this anniversary. The Pelham City Council has passed a resolution supporting the Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission (AMERICA250AL) and its mission to commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Mayor Rick Wash is leading a committee of Pelham citizens to plan meaningful, engaging, and inclusive events that will appeal to all ages across our community. From educational opportunities to family-friendly celebrations, Pelham’s America 250 activities will highlight our shared history and community pride.
Stay tuned for updates and a full list of events as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday—together, right here in Pelham.
Featured Events
| Event | Date | About |
|---|---|---|
| Community Canvas | Ongoing | Community Canvas is a citywide initiative featuring public art, patriotic displays, and hands-on community crafts that bring the spirit and themes of America 250 to life throughout Pelham. |
| Pelham Public LIbrary: Pelham Past, Present, & Future | Ongoing | The Pelham Public Library will host a special America 250 series featuring reading programs, guest speakers, and educational events that celebrate local history and America’s story through engaging community learning opportunities. |
| Red, White, & Bulls: America 250 Night on Ice |
March 21 | A special patriotic partnership with the Birmingham Bulls and American Village will feature military-inspired ceremonies, family-friendly activities, a pre-game block party, and community fundraising—all at the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena. |
| Hometown Heroes Walk/5K & Home Run Derby | April 18 | Run, walk, swing, and celebrate! This full day of family fun features a community walk and 5K, a home run derby for all ages, and concludes with a spirited Paul Revere Midnight Run that brings history to life. |
| Memorial Day Tribute | May 25 | Community volunteers will gather at Pelham City Cemetery to gently clean headstones and place flags on veterans’ graves, honoring their service and sacrifice as we reflect on the true meaning of freedom. |
| Together Under One Flag Celebration | June 14 | A special Flag Day retirement ceremony will be followed by a hometown celebration in the park, bringing families and neighbors together to honor our flag and celebrate community. |
| Fire on the Water | July 3 | Pelham’s annual patriotic celebration at Oak Mountain returns as part of the America 250 initiative, with special enhancements planned to mark this historic milestone. Additional details will be announced soon. |
| Liberty on the Lawn: A Special Movies Under the Stars Event | July 10 | Enjoy a special outdoor movie night in Pelham City Park featuring "Top Gun: Maverick" under the summer sky—an evening of family fun, community spirit, and patriotic pride. |
City of Pelham America 250 Committee
Front Row: Tim Vinclette, Melissa Leverett, Councilmember Michelle Power, Bill Daniel, Nancy Waller. Second Row: Barbara Ann Blair, Mary Campbell, Neville Peacock, Alicia Walters. Third Row: Brian Cooper, Teresa Cooper, Stacey Primero-Currier, Henry Crist. Fourth Row: C.J. Guercio, Barry Winn, Mayor Rick Wash, Daniel Dyson. Not Pictured: Gina Womack, Justin Smith, Kim Kiel, Natalie Steed, Representative Kenneth Paschal, Pam Crawford, former Mayor Gary Waters