From the “For Which It Stands” exhibition: Childe Hassam’s “Italian Day, May 1918,” oil on canvas.
Those of us of a certain age may recall decorating our bikes for a Bicentennial bike parade in 1976 (not naming any names here). This year, on July 4, 2026, our country celebrates its Semiquincentennial (a mouthful for young bike paraders out there!). Commemorations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence kicked off last July. Here are some America 250-themed events to explore in our towns in the coming months, before festivities wrap up with a breathtaking bang on Compo Beach at our annual fourth of July fireworks.
FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY
America250: The Promise and Paradox is underway at Fairfield University. This series of arts and cultural programs celebrates and examines the rich history of the United States. With the university’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts celebrating its 35th anniversary and Fairfield University Art Museum its 10th, there are multiple reasons to put a visit on your calendar.
For Which It Stands is an exhibition of over 70 works by diverse artists, focusing on depictions of the American flag and how it has symbolized both patriotism and protest. The free exhibition is open now and will run through July 25. A free lecture on March 19, “The Soiling of Old Glory: The Story of a Photograph That Shocked America” will examine Stanley Forman’s iconic 1976 photo, which reveals the racial tensions of 1970s America.
From the “For Which It Stands” exhibition: Untitled oil on canvas with metal leaf by Jane Hammond; photo by Leonard Freed, Magnum Photos.
“Through these artworks, we invite visitors to engage deeply with the pressing issues of justice, representation and unity—issues that are as relevant today as they were when our nation was founded,” says Carey Mack Weber, executive director of the Fairfield University Art Museum and exhibition curator.
Learn more: fairfield.edu/museum/for-which-it-stands/
Events at the Quick Center include “Great American Crooners” (March 19), “A Seat at the Table: Celebrating the Feast of Italian American Culture” with author and educator Gina Barreca, PhD (March 24), and Westport photographer Stephen Wilkes “America the Beautiful: Time, Memory, and History” (March 31).
See all events: quickcenter.fairfield.edu/upcoming-events/
Westport photographer Stephen Wilkes will speak at the Quick Center on March 31.
Visit the Westport History Museum to check out The Real Revolution Escape Room.
WESTPORT HISTORY MUSEUM
Looking for something active to get your rambunctious kids in the spirit of our country’s birthday—or to celebrate theirs? The Real Revolution Escape Room at the Westport History Museum is open for local spies eager to help General George Washington by providing him with key intelligence about British movements. Your mission will last 60 minutes and is suitable for spies over age eight, in groups of two to ten. (Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.) Open Thursday to Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., not including July 4 (George is probably tied up that day). Tickets are $25. Reserve ahead: westporthistory.org/event/real-revolution-escape-room/
To stay abreast of upcoming America 250 events and learn about Westport’s history over the last 250 years, visit: westport250.com