South Mountain Counties Kick Off America250PA Celebrations

America 250 PA in South Mountain Region

In 2026, the United States will mark a monumental milestone–the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. Across Pennsylvania, communities are preparing to honor this once-in-a-generation moment through America250PA, the statewide initiative coordinating commemorative events, storytelling, and engagement that highlight the Commonwealth’s role in shaping America’s past, present, and future.

In the South Mountain region, the counties of Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and York are leading the way with exciting kick-off events and programming that invite residents and visitors alike to be part of the Semiquincentennial celebration. The South Mountain Region is home our shared history, and we hope you enjoy learning more about it throughout this year. 

Adams County: Where History Lives On

Few places are as deeply connected to America’s story as Adams County. From Gettysburg’s defining role in the Civil War to its enduring legacy of leadership and sacrifice, Adams County is embracing America250PA with enthusiasm.

Visitors can explore how the county is commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary and learn more about its official kick-off event through Destination Gettysburg:

Cumberland County: Connecting Past and Present

Cumberland County’s America250PA efforts focus on the region’s rich cultural heritage, innovation, and community pride. Through events and experiences, the county is highlighting how its people and places have helped shape Pennsylvania and the nation over the last 250 years.

Learn more about Cumberland County’s plans and kick-off celebration here:

Franklin County: Celebrating Community and Contribution

Franklin County is marking America250PA by spotlighting the stories, places, and people that define its role in American history. From frontier beginnings to modern-day achievements, the county’s programming invites the community to reflect on its contributions over two and a half centuries.

Explore Franklin County’s America250PA initiatives and kick-off event details at:

York County: History Made Here

York County, proudly known as the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation, plays a central role in America’s founding story. The county will officially launch its Semiquincentennial celebrations with a special kick-off event in January.

America250PA is coming to York County on January 22 to kick off the Semiquincentennial year.
The event will be held at the York County Administrative Center’s Ceremonial Court Room (2nd Floor) from 11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in partnership with the York County Economic Alliance.

America250PA is coordinating Pennsylvania’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary and will highlight the impact of Pennsylvanians on the nation’s past, present, and future.

Join the Celebration

The America250PA kick-off events across the South Mountain region mark the beginning of years of reflection, celebration, and community engagement. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lifelong resident, or a first-time visitor, Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and York counties offer meaningful ways to connect with America’s story right where it happened.

Stay tuned, get involved, and help celebrate 250 years of American history made in Pennsylvania.