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INDIANA UNIVERSITY
Bloomington
America 250

Celebrating 250 years of the American story

In 2026, America celebrates its 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Indiana University Bloomington will join in commemorating this historic occasion.

A historic look back

IU Bloomington will host programming, exhibits, and events that honor the country’s past, reflect on the principles and importance of the Declaration, and create a common experience for the campus and the community to honor our country’s past while looking toward our shared future.
  • Visitors lean over a display case to view the Declaration of Independence exhibit.
    Lilly Library

    Examine this crucial moment in American history through IU Bloomington's unparalleled collection, including the Dunlap Broadside, a first printing of the Declaration of Independence and one of only 26 known copies today.

Featured programming

  • Speaker addresses attendees during an opening reception for a grant‑funded campus exhibit.

    Grant-funded events and exhibits

    Discover interdisciplinary talks, panels, exhibitions, and interactive events exploring the Declaration's origins, impact, and the ongoing responsibilities of citizenship.

  • Visitor examines rare books and archival materials displayed inside a university library exhibit.

    This library research guide includes curated books and online resources to support P–12 teaching and learning before and after participating in our tours or engaging with exhibits.

  • Participants record a conversation in a radio-style studio setting

    Hosted by IU America 250 chair Les Lenkowsky, this six-part series explores how a 250-year-old revolution continues to shape contemporary life through Indiana University research, teaching, and community partnerships.

Art and history tour

Take a guided or self-guided campus tour exploring American art, history, and ideas across the Lilly Library, Eskenazi Museum of Art, and the IU Auditorium.
  • Visitors enter a campus museum building featuring an exhibit.

    Self-guided campus tours

    Explore at your leisure and create your own drop-in educational experiences at IU Bloomington. Visit all locations in one trip or multiple visits.

  • K–12 Ï㽶ÊÓƵs explore framed artwork while participating in an educational museum tour.

    Step into history and explore how artists depicted American history and ideas on a tour through three iconic venues at Indiana University.

Upcoming events

See what else is coming up on campus to celebrate the country's 250th birthday.

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    • Ìý SIDNEY AND LOIS ESKENAZI MUSEUM OF ART

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    • Ìý LILLY LIBRARY

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue

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    • Ìý Emeriti House, 1015 E. Atwater Avenue