The City of Chicago joined Choose Chicago, the city’s official destination marketing organization, to announce its participation in the national commemoration of America 250, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The City will collaborate with cultural institutions like the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Public Library and the Department of Aviation, to ensure this commemoration reflects the full and layered history of Chicago. Events will include neighborhood celebrations, museum exhibitions, performances, public art, and tours highlighting the people, places, and movements that shaped Chicago’s role in the American story. City Departments will also play a major role in commemorating Chicago 250 throughout the year, including through the following initiatives:

• The Chicago Department of Aviation will feature patriotic entertainment and cultural programming for travelers at O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport.

• The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events will highlight America 250 throughout its summer programming, including the iconic Chicago Air and Water Show.

• The Chicago Park District will host programming celebrating Chicago’s contributions to the nation’s history and civic life.

• The Chicago Public Library is launching a civic storytelling campaign titled Letters to America: Our Chicago Story, inviting Chicagoans of all ages to reflect on the nation’s history, its present, and the future we hope to build together.

More information about America 250 in Chicago will be available in the coming month at https://www.choosechicago.com/america-250/.