SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker and other state leaders kicked off the celebration of America's 250th anniversary at Navy Pier Wednesday. A wide variety of activities are planned across the state to commemorate the Declaration of Independence.
America's 250th birthday is July 4. However, it is fitting that Illinois leaders launched the celebration on Wednesday, as it marked the Prairie State's 207th birthday.
"There's nothing more patriotic, nothing more foundational to the ideals of our nation that we were founded upon, than renewing our allegiance to defending the values of freedom and justice for all," Pritzker said.
The Illinois America 250 Commission was established through a state law to organize the year-long celebration. Members said they're excited to share local stories, highlight significant places, host programs and showcase how Illinoisans stay true to the Declaration of Independence.
"Illinois Humanities and Story Corps Studios are going to be collecting stories from every one of our 102 counties and archiving them in the Library of Congress," said Commission Chair Gabrielle Lyon.
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and the Illinois State Board of Education are inviting students to submit art depicting what the 250th anniversary means to them. Winning artwork will be displayed in Springfield, and the deadline to submit projects is Dec. 19.
State leaders are also creating a limited-edition passport for people to use at historic locations, visitor bureaus and museums.
"In Randolph County, visitors can explore Fort de Chartes and venture to Kaskaskia to see the Liberty Bell of the West, which was rung by villagers in 1778 to celebrate their liberation from the British," said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Natalie Phelps Finnie.
People who love a great American road trip can celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 as well. Museums, visitor centers and the Illinois State Fair will have special events honoring the Mother Road next year.
You can find a calendar for Illinois America 250 events by clicking here.Â
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