As fireworks light the skies this Independence Day, our sights are already set on a truly monumental moment – July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of American independence. With just one year to go, the countdown is on. On that historic day, the National Mall will serve as the nation’s front yard and center stage for the Semiquincentennial.

Northrop Grumman’s generous gift will support the expansion of the Trust and the National Park Service’s award-winning volunteer corps, Volunteers-in-Parks (VIP), to help welcome and guide visitors on America’s Front Yard.

The Trust for the National Mall officially launched Our Monumental Moment: The Campaign for the National Mall during AMERICA’S BALL for THE MALL —Raising $250 million in honor of America’s 250th to restore, preserve and elevate the National Mall for 2026…and beyond.

The event of the season welcomed a glittering crowd of nearly 600 partners and champions to celebrate and support America’s Front Yard. 

Trust for the National Mall was honored to have America’s Front Yard featured in National Geographic’s advance preview of America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026.

The Countdown is ON. The Trust for the National Mall joined national partners and Mayor Muriel Bowser for the official press kickoff of America’s 250th in the nation’s capital, less than one year away.