The I.N.H.A. Staff Blog

Category: Policies

Happy Semiquincentennial

**America’s 250th Anniversary: The Semiquincentennial**

On July 4, 2026, the United States celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This nationwide commemoration, led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and America250.org, invites Americans everywhere to reflect on our shared history, honor the contributions of past and present generations, and unite around the ideals of liberty and resilience that define our nation.

From local block parties and major events like the Great American State Fair on the National Mall to commemorative coins, volunteer service projects, and cultural celebrations across all 50 states, the year-long observance is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate the enduring American story.

Learn more and get involved at [america250.org](https://america250.org/). 🇺🇸

National Public Lands Day

Join us for National Public Lands Day on September 27, 2025! Since 1994, this annual event on the fourth Saturday of September has been the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort. Last year, over 130 national parks hosted events with 7,600 volunteers donating an impressive 41,500 hours of service.

All national parks that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone on September 27, 2025 in celebration of National Public Lands Day.

BONUS WILDLIFE DISEASE INSTALLMENT: Bird flu and you: a refresher on what to do if you find a dead bird

The highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, referred to as HPAI H5N1, has been widely circulating in poultry and wild birds across many European and Asian countries for the last several years. In November 2021, this virus strain was detected in Newfoundland, Canada, and in January 2022, it was detected in the United States. HPAI H5N1 has affected commercial poultry operations, backyard flocks, wild birds and mammalian wildlife.