Celebrating America's 250th and Colorado's 150th
In 2026, the country will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th birthday. In Lone Tree, the community will mark the occasion with a series of events throughout the year focused on community and culture.
Many of the celebrations will take place at the Lone Tree Arts Center and are designed to bring people together while reflecting on what these milestones mean today.
This spring, three performances will be part of a National Endowment for the Arts-supported initiative that invites community participation. At each event, attendees will have the opportunity to share what America means to them by writing a short message and posing for a photo. These reflections will help capture local voices during this historic year, and photos will be displayed on the Arts Center’s website and in the lobby.
From June 23 through September 3, the Lone Tree Arts Center Gallery will feature a Commissioner’s Choice exhibit showcasing paintings and three-dimensional works by artist Don Woodard. This series reflects America’s 250th anniversary by celebrating the landscapes, wildlife, and public lands that define our national identity.
Lone Tree’s annual Independence Day celebration will take on added meaning in 2026. In addition to festivities and an extended fireworks show, the event will include “Moments That Made Us,” an exhibition developed by History Colorado to highlight key moments in our shared history. After July 4, the exhibit will continue appearing in locations around the City through the end of the year.
The celebrations will also include a local milestone. On August 15, the City will join the community in recognizing the 30th anniversary of Park Meadows Retail Resort.
2026 Celebration Highlights
March 1
Nat Geo Live: Uncovering Our Concrete Jungle
March 19
Women of Americana: A Celebration of American Music
May 2
100 Years of Blues with Elvin Bishop & Charlie Musselwhite
June 23 – Sept. 8
Commissioner’s Choice Exhibit: Don Woodard
July 4
Independence Day Celebration + Moments That Made Us exhibit
July 5 – Dec. 31
Moments That Made Us displayed throughout the City
August 29
Park Meadows Retail Resort 30th Anniversary Celebration