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In 2026, the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

To celebrate this historic milestone, America250 is hosting the America's Field Trip contest. Open to students in grades 3–12, the contest invites young people from across the nation to share their unique perspectives on what America means to them. Winners will have the opportunity to experience an unforgettable field trip to some of the country’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. To enter, students must submit original writing or artwork in response to the prompt, "What does America mean to you?" The submission deadline is April 16, 2025.

Twenty-five first-place awardees from each grade level category and a chaperone will receive airfare and lodging for a three-day, two-night trip to select historical or cultural sites. Second-place awardees will receive a $500 cash award, and the teacher associated with the top scoring student submissions in each grade level category will receive a $1,000 cash award.

America250 is the nonprofit supporting organization of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, dedicated to commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States through programs that inspire Americans to renew and strengthen our democracy.