Celebrate America's 250th at Monticello

Come see where Thomas Jefferson's idea of independence began
1776 - 2026 Monticello

Join us for special tours, engaging programs, and family activities starting in 2025 that honor the Spirit of Independence and explore Jefferson's journey from British subject to American citizen.

See what we've got planned ➔

Explore Jefferson's pivotal role in America's quest for independence ➔

What's a Semiquincentennial?

A 250th Anniversary (/seh-mai-KWIN-sen-ten-ee-ul/)
Whether you call it a Bisesquicentennial, the Sestercentennial, Semiquincentennial, or the Quarter Millennial, 2026 marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to remember the birth of American democracy, and we're getting ready.

Busts of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson side by side
New Tours in 2025 Join us for special tours on Jefferson's relationships with his political allies and rivals, including James Madison, John Adams, and Alexander Hamilton.
Covers and author names of four different books
Pursuits of Knowledge Series Join us for a series of dynamic conversations with leading thinkers exploring Jefferson's world, ideas, and legacy.
Collage of July 4 celebrations at Monticello and headshot of 2025 ceremony's speaker Ken Burns
Monticello Celebrates Independence with Ken Burns Get inspired by July 4 at Monticello with our annual celebration and naturalization ceremony. Join us in 2025 on July 3rd and 4th for two special events featuring award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns.
Archaeologists talk with visitors during an open house
Calendar of Events Check out our calendar for public events, family programs, research updates, and more    

Jefferson's Journey to Revolution and American Independence

Monticello is where Jefferson refined the ideas of freedom established in the Declaration. It is both a tribute and the embodiment of the American experiment. 

The Quest for Equality

Each generation of Americans since 1776 has interpreted “all Men are created equal” in an increasingly inclusive way and fought to make Jefferson’s words a reality for all.

Timeline The endeavor to extend the promise of equality in the Declaration of Independence spans our nation's history.
Video Library Monticello historians, descendants of the enslaved community, and recipients of the ... reflect on the quest to fulfill the promise of Jefferson's words.
Memory, Mourning and Mobilization In this video, prominent historians and civil rights leaders - Peter Onuf, Annette Gordon-Reed, Deborah E. McDowell, Edward L. Ayers, and Marian Wright Edelman - discuss the legacies of slavery and freedom in America

We're proud to partner with:

Logo for the VA250 Commission

ADDRESS:
1050 Monticello Loop
Charlottesville, VA 22902
GENERAL INFORMATION:
(434) 984-9800