America's 250th Anniversary

Few places bring together Americans like the National Mall. It is our nation’s preeminent space for celebration, demonstration, and commemoration. The National Mall we know today was designed in the 18th and 19th centuries as a transformative space to present a new national narrative of order, unity, and purpose following the Civil War. The Mall’s symbolism moved beyond its designers’ intent almost immediately. It has become a space for assembly, for sharing the American story, and for celebrating and testing the ideals represented in its memorials and monuments. It is now a space without equal.

As we prepare for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the National Park Service and the Trust for the National Mall, are undertaking an ambitious and unprecedented effort to reinvigorate the National Mall. Together, we will invest nearly half a billion dollars in physical improvements and additional funds in events, educational opportunities, and other programming. These comprehensive investments will ensure the Mall is a vibrant and inspiring space for all Americans, not just in 2026, but well into the future.

Here is a look at some of the projects on tap for the National Mall in the next few years: