As the U.S. celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, cities across the country are creating their own unique ways to mark the occasion. “Local celebrations are essential to the semiquincentennial,” Rosie Rios, chair of America250, the nonpartisan organization Congress established in 2016 to oversee planning and coordination of the celebrations, told Smart Cities Dive in an email. “If the 250th anniversary is going to resonate across the country, it must be shaped by the people and communities who make up the American story. That is why the role of cities, towns and local communities is so important to the success of this historic milestone.” The law establishing America250 designated Boston, Charleston, South Carolina, New York City and Philadelphia as “leading cities” for event planning because of their roles in the nation’s founding. But the nonprofit arm of the commission has provided guidance for any and all communities to host celebrations. “Whether it is a citywide festival, a neighborhood gathering, a volunteer project, a student program or a community storytelling initiative, local celebrations help ensure that Americans can participate in ways that feel personal and meaningful,” Rios said. From concerts and museum exhibits to reenactments and neighborhood block parties, cities are highlighting their place in the nation’s story. Musical tributes Many communities are using music to tell their story. In Chicago, the Park District’s America 250: Chicago’s Parks, America’s Stage features performances such as “America: Songs of Protest and Freedom.” Additionally, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s “America 250: A Musical Journey,” including a tribute to composer John Williams and filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s collaborations, is running throughout this month. “When you think of Chicago, music plays a big role in who we are and the influence on American culture and music culture across the world,” said