America 250-Colorado 150

Program Summary

2026 is a year to celebrate — Colorado turns 150 and the nation marks 250 years of independence. All across the state, you’ll find festivals, events, community celebrations and hidden gems waiting to be explored.

We invite you to celebrate with us all year long. From iconic landmarks to small-town surprises, discover the stories, people and places that make Colorado memorable.

Overview

Type: Statewide celebration

For: All Colorado residents and partners

Application periods:

Passport Program: Applications close July 13, 2026
Event Calendar: Application close December 12, 2026

OEDIT division: Colorado Tourism Office

Colorado Passports are free, mobile-exclusive passes that reward you for exploring the Centennial State, making it easy and fun to discover Colorado’s vibrant towns, cultural landmarks and local businesses.

Explore the Colorado Passports below, and with every stop, you’ll uncover hidden gems, celebrate Colorado’s rich heritage — all while earning prizes and perks along the way.

Every check-in is a step deeper into Colorado’s story—past, present and still unfolding. Ready to see what else is in store for this once-in-a-generation celebration? Find inspiration, events and travel ideas to help you experience it all at Colorado.com.

Start exploring the Passport

Get Involved in the Celebration

Below are resources for individuals, communities, businesses, organizations, and everyone looking to get involved with the 2026 commemoration. No matter who you are, the resources below will give you the tools you need to be part of Colorado's Sesquisemiquincentennial.

Free Community Toolkit (including logos and social media assets)
Colorado Passport Program: Business Interest Form
Colorado Passport Program: Spanish Business Interest Form
Supporting Documents and Scoring Criteria
250-150 Events: Submission Form
Frequently Asked Questions

The official Terms & Conditions and Sweepstakes Rules for the Colorado Passport Program.

The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission is taking its milestone celebrations to new heights with Stories in the Sky, a series of nearly 150 community drone shows lighting up Colorado's skies from September 2025 through December 2026, creating unforgettable moments for millions of Coloradans and visitors alike. This sweeping effort was developed in partnership with the Commission, Colorado Tourism Office and Visit Denver, and is built on two major programs working in concert through the end of 2026.

Get Involved in the Celebration

Upcoming drone shows

As we approach 2026, Colorado invites communities across the state to be part of a once-in-a-generation commemoration, honoring the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood. This statewide calendar highlights events that celebrate our shared history, culture, and communities.