In 2026, two major anniversaries converge: the United States turns 250 and Colorado marks 150 years of statehood. The dual celebration, often referred to as “America 250–Colorado 150,” is inspiring events, exhibits and community projects across the state.

“These events are for everyone, with opportunities to reflect, connect and enjoy shared experiences,” said City of Grand Junction Communications and Engagement Manager Kelsey Coleman. 

Colorado became a territory in 1861, then joined the Union on August 1, 1876—exactly 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, earning its nickname as the Centennial State.

Planning efforts between local counties, the America 250 initiative and the state’s 150 commission have focused on creating events, exhibits and interactive experiences throughout 2026.

“These local stories don’t just reflect history, they show how Grand Junction helped shape the character, resilience and spirit of the American West,” Coleman said. 

In Delta and Montrose counties, planning for the 150/250 celebrations began in 2024, said Cally Hale, chair of the Delta/Montrose Colorado 150 program. A volunteer committee has been organizing events tied to July 4 and Colorado Day on August 1.

Amy Perkins, marketing coordinator for Delta County Tourism, said additional Delta County events are also being planned.

“We recommend visitors explore the local museums, which hold a wealth of information about Delta County’s agricultural, mining and cattle ranching past,” Perkins said.

MESA COUNTY EVENTS*

*Please check local news first, some events have been cancelled due to the ongoing wildfires in the area. 

Colorado 150 Film Series highlights notable films with Colorado ties, including movies set in Colorado or movies that were shot in the state since 1876. Beginning in June, more than 30 independent, community-based venues across Colorado, including the Avalon Theatre, will screen selections from the top 25 films chosen by Colorado film professionals. Colorado150 will also feature short films, music videos and presentations from filmmakers, artists, critics and other Colorado creatives before select screenings. The project’s website also includes a catalog of nearly 700 films connected to Colorado’s cinema history.
Colorado150Film.com | 720-968-8559

July 14-18
Mesa County Fair
Bring the family to the fairgrounds and enjoy the livestock exhibits, a carnival and daily entertainment. Arena action includes the Bull Wars on Thursday, a professional rodeo on Friday and a demolition derby on Saturday. Grandstand shows and carnival require tickets.
11 a.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Friday | 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday | 2785 U.S. 50 | Free | MesaCountyFair.org | 970-255-7101

July 23
Grand Junction 250/150: A Main Street Celebration
The Downtown Grand Junction Market on Main hosts a special commemoration honoring America's 250th anniversary and Colorado's 150th year of statehood. Reflect on the area's history, shop from local vendors, enjoy free kids’ activities and connect with Grand Junction leadership and staff.
5:30-9 p.m. | 5th & Main Street | Free | America250.org | 970-255-4923

MONTROSE COUNTY EVENTS

Valley Symphony Association launches its 2026-27 season, “Legacy,” on October 1. Building on last season’s “Heritage” theme, which honored the orchestra’s musical history and community roots, “Legacy” looks ahead to the future of live music while reflecting the spirit of America 250-Colorado 150.

ValleySymphony.net | 970-765-8323

Ute Indian Museum is offering free admission in conjunction with Colorado Day on August 1, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Vist the Ethnobotany Garden, attend cultural workshops, watch the film series throughout the day and enjoy kids activities. 
HistoryColorado.org / 970-249-3098

DELTA COUNTY EVENTS

“150 Things to Do” Delta County Digital Passport is an interactive mobile guide featuring 150 must-do activities across Delta County, including Delta, Cedaredge, Crawford, Hotchkiss, Orchard City and Paonia. Users can check in at locations through the Visit Delta County app to win prizes, including a “Best of Delta County” basket valued at $300.

DeltaCountyColorado.com | 970-874-2108l

Step Into the Past: America 250-Colorado 150 brings monthly displays to the Delta Library that connect people, places and events from 150 years of Colorado history and 250 years of America’s journey. The library’s website also features a curated reading list of books tied to Colorado’s history.

DeltaLibraries.org | 970-399-7876

Delta County Fair & Rodeo committee invites community members to saddle up for the 250-150 celebration August 1-9 in Hotchkiss. The fair celebrates heritage, hard work and community with ranch rodeos, exhibits at Heritage Hall and 4-H and FFA competitions. 

DeltaCountyCO.gov/fair | 970-874-2199

City of Delta Car Show & Downtown Cruise rolls into downtown Delta on September 11 with more than 150 classic cars and the Stories in the Sky Drone Show.

CityofDelta.net/parksrecgolf/page/car-show-downtown-cruise-night-2026 | 970-874-0923 x405

TRAVELING EVENTS

Thomas “Detour” Evans’ Traveling Mural uses vivid colors and images of tractors, waterways and crops to tell the story of Colorado agriculture from past to present. Evans said the piece is meant not only to reflect on 150 years of agricultural history but also to inspire pride, curiosity and the next generation of farmers, ranchers and land stewards.

Check for location updates: SettingColoradosTable.com/ag-mural

Stories in the Sky, developed with the America 250-Colorado 150 Commission, brings free drone shows to communities across Colorado. The synchronized aerial displays use hundreds of drones to illuminate scenes from local, state and national history, with performances planned from the Eastern Plains to the Western Slope.

Stops include: 

• August 21 in Palisade during the Palisade Peach Festival 

• September 11 in Delta during the City of Delta Car Show & Downtown Cruise

• October 10 in Grand Junction during the Water Lights at Night at the Butterfly Pond at Las Colonias

HistoryColorado.org/Colorado-150/Initiative-Stories-In-The-Sky

WEBSITES TO WATCH: 

America250.org

Colorado.com/am250-co150-events