As the United States looks forward to its 250th anniversary in 2026, Sampson County is gearing up for a year-long tribute to American independence, local heritage, and community spirit. Local organizers have unveiled an extensive calendar of events designed to engage citizens from every corner of the county, ensuring that the semi quincentennial is more than just a date on the calendar, but a season of reflection and celebration.

Local festivities across Sampson County are set to officially launch on February 21, 2026, with a kick-off ceremony at Clinton City Hall at 10:30 a.m. Following a slate of keynote speakers, the Richard Clinton Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NCSDAR) will host a public reception at the Sampson County History Museum.

Throughout the year, the "America 250" message will be a constant fixture at many of the county’s signature gatherings. From the Sampson Community College Campus as host of Sampson County Ag Day to the excitement of Roseboro’s Bloomfest, commemorative activities will be interwoven along with traditional experiences.

The goal is to integrate this historic milestone into the fabric of our existing traditions, and this integration includes a special focus on local history, such as the "Paddle Through History" event with the Coharie Tribe on July 1 and a commemorative service honoring Christopher Hiawatha Bell at New Bethel Baptist Church in May.

A unique centerpiece of the county’s celebration is a donated 4x4 "America 250" Barn Quilt. This handcrafted piece of art will be displayed at every official event throughout 2026. Residents who attend these events can enter a drawing for a chance to win the eye-catching quilt at the end of the year, symbolizing the community's diverse history.

2026 America 250 Calendar of Events:

• February 21: America 250 Kick-off (10:30 a.m.) at City Hall; Reception to follow at Sampson County History Museum.
• March 21: Sampson County Ag Day at Sampson Community College (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• April 25: Bloomfest in downtown Roseboro, N.C.
• May 16: Honoring Christopher Hiawatha Bell at New Bethel Baptist Church (11 a.m.).
• June 13: Patriotic Barn Quilt Painting Class at the Sampson County Livestock Facility, coordinated by the Sampson County Arts Council (9 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• July 1: Paddle Through History with the Coharie Tribe.
• July 4: Independence Day Celebration at Royal Lane Park; America 250 Booth opens 5:00–9:30 p.m.
• August: America 250 activities at the Downtown Clinton Fresh Market (1st and 3rd Saturdays this summer).
• September 12: Gatsie Ruth Festival at Rich Farm and Venue, Roseboro.
• October 10: Clinton City Square Fair festivities and booth.
• November: Visual Arts programs and Veterans Cards initiatives at Sampson County and Clinton City Schools.
• November 11: Veterans Day Ceremony at Dark Horse Stadium, Clinton High School (1–3 p.m.).
• November 19, 20, 21, 26 & 28: Sampson Community Theater presents: Lost on the 4th of July.

Education will also play a vital role, with both Clinton City and Sampson County Schools integrating America 250 programming into their visual arts and history curricula. The year will conclude with a theatrical flourish as the Sampson Community Theater performs the original play, Lost on the 4th of July, during the month of November, and plans are pending for our December activities at this time.

For more information about all North Carolina A250 initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the official North Carolina America 250 website.