VERO BEACH, Fla.— Governor Ron DeSantis announced a slate of statewide events, exhibits, and public initiatives to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, occurring in 2026. America 250 Florida marks the state’s official observance of America’s semiquincentennial and will host and help sponsor special events throughout the year for Floridians from all corners of the state to enjoy.
“As we celebrate our country’s 250th anniversary, Florida rejects the concerted efforts to malign our nation’s history, distort the principles of the founding, and demonize our founders,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We are planning a series of events, exhibits, and opportunities statewide for Floridians to celebrate the ‘Spirit of ’76.’ Florida is proud to lead with celebrations that promote civic virtue, historical education, and patriotic pride.”
“This isn’t just another history lesson—the Governor is spearheading a movement to restore our Founding Fathers to their rightful place in history,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “We have a duty to teach the next generation about the principles our Founding Fathers enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. America’s Semiquincentennial is a great time to do that.”
“Florida is proud to celebrate our great nation,” said President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA Bryan Griffin. “At Governor DeSantis’ direction, state partners are working together to create meaningful opportunities for residents and visitors to experience American and Florida history and celebrate America. For anyone looking for the right place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, make Florida your choice.”
The year-long commemoration builds on Florida’s early America 250 celebrations and highlights the state’s unique role in the Revolutionary era and throughout American history. Although Florida was not one of the original thirteen colonies, the territory played a strategic role during the Revolutionary War and later became part of the United States through the Adams-Onís Treaty of 1821. As such, Florida has been referred to as the “Fourteenth Colony” due to its close ties to the original thirteen American colonies.
General George Washington’s Birthday Designated a State Holiday
As part of the announcement, Governor DeSantis proclaimed Washington’s Birthday a Florida state holiday, with state offices closed in observance on Monday, February 16. The state will host Washington’s Birthday Weekend events from February 12–16, honoring the leadership and legacy of General George Washington, America’s first president and commander-in-chief of the Continental Army.
Washington’s Birthday Weekend will also include several opportunities for Floridians to get outside and enjoy Florida’s year-round nice weather:
America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA: The Florida Department of Transportation recently announced a partnership with NASCAR to sponsor the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA, part of Speedweeks and a qualifier leading up to the 68th running of the DAYTONA 500. This race will compliment the Fresh From Florida 250 which happens that Friday, February 13, sponsored by Fresh From Florida.
Admissions Waived for All State Lands: All admissions fees will be waived for Floridians at all state parks, wildlife management areas, water management lands, and Department of State historic properties during Washington’s Birthday Weekend.
Exhibits, Statues, and Capitol Displays
The Governor highlighted ongoing and upcoming exhibits, including a new “14th Colony” history exhibit at the Florida Capitol, territorial and historic state flag displays around the capitol complex, and a Founders Exhibit developed in partnership with the White House. Statues honoring America’s founders have been unveiled across counties bearing their names, with additional dedications planned over the next several months.
In honor of the American Semiquincentennial, “The 14th Colony” contains historical artifacts, works of art, significant documents, unique items, and patriotic memorabilia presented and curated by the Florida Department of State. The exhibit is located on the 22nd Floor Capitol Gallery and throughout the Capitol. “The 14th Colony” was produced in partnership between the Division of Historical Resources, Division of Library and Information Services and the Division of Arts and Culture.
“The 14th Colony” will be on display at the 22nd Floor Capitol Gallery until the end of the 2026 Legislative Session in March; however, other items from the exhibit will be displayed throughout the year on the Plaza Level and Lower Level of the Capitol. The exhibit includes brochures, a children’s activity book, and an online exhibit is planned for a later date. Hours of operation for the Florida Capitol can be found at floridacapitol.myflorida.com.
Statewide Historical Engagement Opportunities
Governor DeSantis also announced several year-long opportunities for Floridians to celebrate the founding while enjoying the Florida sunshine:
America250FL Golf Trail
Governor Ron DeSantis Announced the America250FL Golf Trail, which features some of the state’s historic courses as well as additional participating courses. Participating and historic golf courses will feature commemorative America 250 Florida flags on the 14th hole of their course, symbolizing Florida’s role as the “14th Colony.” To submit your golf course for the America250FL Golf Trail, click here: https://playinflorida.com/america250fl/
14th Colony Heritage Sites & America 250 Florida Road Trip
A curated collection of historic sites and state parks highlighting Florida’s Revolutionary, territorial, and early statehood history will be promoted through the America250FL Road Trip, with maps available statewide. Parks and sites on this list include:
Mission San Luis, in Tallahassee
Big Talbot Island State Park and Fort George Island Cultural State Park, in Jacksonville
Tomoka State Park, in Ormond Beach
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, in Alachua County
San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park, in St. Marks
Fernandina Plaza Historic State Park, Amelia Island State Park, and Fort
Clinch State Park, in Nassau County
Constitution Convention Museum State Park, in Port St. Joe
John Gorrie Museum State Park, in Apalachicola
Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park, in Sanderson
Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, in Sumter County
Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park, in Cross Creek
Fort Mose Historic State Park, in St. Augustine
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, in Key West
Many of these parks—along with others—will also host period reenactors and events throughout the year, allowing Floridians to experience what life was like during the period they are designed to memorialize.
Student Art & Essay Contest
To engage Florida’s next generation in this historic moment, the Florida Department of Education also launched will launch an America 250 Florida Student Art & Essay Contest, which will award 14 Florida Prepaid Scholarships to qualifying students for use at Florida colleges and universities. Additional details, including prompts and deadlines, will be released soon.
Further activities will continue to be announced over the coming months. Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities at America250FL.com, the state’s official hub for the Semiquincentennial celebration.
Media Release & Images: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis
Admissions Waived for All State Lands: All admissions fees will be waived for Floridians at all state parks, wildlife management areas, water management lands, and Department of State historic properties during Washington’s Birthday Weekend.
