Beloit Announces America250 Citywide celebrations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 3, 2026
BELOIT ANNOUNCES AMERICA250 CITYWIDE CELEBRATIONS
BELOIT, Wis. – In 2026, communities across the nation will come together to commemorate America250 – the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historic milestone will be celebrated in Beloit, WI, and the city is proud to join in this semi-quincentennial celebration with several special community activities and events designed to engage residents and visitors.
Adding to the significance of this national anniversary, 2026 also marks 190 years since the founding of the city of Beloit. Beloit has been a community of ingenuity and creativity evolving through time with the changes in society. Together, America250 and Beloit’s 190th anniversary will create a celebration honoring both our national heritage and our local legacy.
Visit Beloit has partnered with the Beloit Historical Society, along with many additional organizations and local leaders, to deliver meaningful and memorable programming throughout 2026 for people of all ages.
“America250 reminds us that the story of our nation is also the story of our neighborhoods, our land, and our people. By honoring 250 years of democracy here at home, we connect Beloit’s past, present, and future to the enduring promise of America,” stated Celestino Ruffini, CEO of Visit Beloit.
As part of the celebration, Visit Beloit created the Beloit Scavenger History Hunt, featuring historic landmarks and sites across the greater Beloit region. Participants can explore the city and learn about Beloit’s rich history by following clues and visiting designated locations. To take part, participants can print the scavenger hunt online at https://visitbeloit.com/america250-beloit/ or pick up a copy at Visit Beloit or at the Beloit Historical Society. Completed worksheets can be turned into the Beloit Historical Society in exchange for a prize generously donated by Culver’s of Beloit. To learn more about Beloit’s historic buildings and sites, sign up for the free Beloit & Beyond Historical Walking Trail.
Another special opportunity for students in grades 3-12 is the “What America Means to Me” essay contest, presented by the Beloit Historical Society and Visit Beloit. This student contest invites elementary, intermediate, and high school students to reflect on what America means to them by sharing their personal perspectives. Award winners will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive Beloit Sky Carp experience, along with special feature opportunities showcasing their work.
Students at each grade level may submit their essay with either visual artwork or written responses. The submission period will start on March 1, 2026, and close on March 31, 2026. Winners will be announced in April 2026. First and second place winners will be selected in each age group for both written and visual art categories, with 12 total winners recognized. Official contest details can be found at https://visitbeloit.com/america250-beloit/.
Additionally, the City of Beloit has increased its investment in the annual Fourth of July Pops on the Rock celebration at Riverside in collaboration with the Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra. As the city celebrates America250, the fireworks show will be the largest show seen in Beloit in decades. The Independence Day celebration will also include the annual bike parade and pickleball tournament.
For a complete list of additional America250 events and activities planned in Beloit – including the PBS screening of Wisconsin Hometown Stories – Beloit, the Miss Beloit Historical Exhibit, the annual Beloit Heritage Days weekend, and more, please visit https://visitbeloit.com/america250-beloit/.
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About Visit Beloit
Visit Beloit, established in 1987, is greater Beloit’s official destination marketing organization (DMO). An accredited DMO through Destinations International’s Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP), Visit Beloit’s mission is to be greater Beloit’s tourism champion, using our expertise to generate positive economic impact and to create a vibrant community for residents and visitors. For information, visit www.visitbeloit.com.
About Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP)
The globally recognized Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) serves as a visible industry distinction that defines quality and performance standards in destination marketing and management. With nearly 200 accredited organizations worldwide, DMAP is an internationally recognized program that is essential to the success of destinations. See the full list of accredited organizations, including Visit Beloit, at www.destinationsinternational.org.
About Beloit Historical Society
The Beloit Historical Society, founded in 1910, is the oldest historical society in Rock County, Wisconsin. Their mission is to connect people with Beloit’s history to inspire an inclusive, informed, and engaged community. To learn more about the Beloit Historical Society and how to support through donations, volunteerism, or membership, visit www.beloithistory.org.nations. See the full list of accredited organizations, including Visit Beloit, at www.destinationsinternational.org.
