America 250th Celebrations
As the United States approaches America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence in 2026, communities across the country are reflecting on the people, events, and innovations that shaped the nation’s identity. Organized in part by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, America 250 highlights milestones in civic development, westward expansion, and the enduring pursuit of liberty. One powerful symbol of American determination and ingenuity is the Pony Express, the short-lived but legendary mail service that operated from 1860 to 1861. By relaying messages on horseback across nearly 2,000 miles between St. Joseph and Sacramento, the Pony Express dramatically reduced communication time between the East and West, reinforcing connections across a rapidly expanding nation. Together, America 250 and the legacy of the Pony Express underscore themes of resilience, innovation, and unity that continue to define the American story.
Come celebrate with us!
| Date/Time | Location | Event | Details |
| Mar 19th 6:30 PM PT |
Carriage House, Foreman-Roberts House |
Mail, Mochilas and Miles. Lecture with the Carson City Historical Society Carson City Contact – Petra Keller |
$10 Admission |
| Apr 22nd | Gothenburg, NE | Pony Express Statue Dedication Ceremony | Gothenburg Pony Express Station |
|
May 1st and 2nd (7 PM PT) & 3rd and 10th (2 PM PT) |
Upstairs in The Odeon Saloon 65 Pike Street, Dayton NV |
Dayton Misfits Theater Group Presents- The Pony Expresso or The Villain Came to a Grinding Halt Production Contact – Petra Keller |
Dayton Misfits Theater Group |
| June 6th & 7th | California Trail Center 1 Interpretive Center Way Elko, NV |
The California Trail Center’s annual Trail Days is celebrating the 250th birthday of the USA! Events include a Pony Express Mochila Exchange Demonstration | California Trail Days |
| June 15th, 3:00 PM CT | Patee House 1202 Penn Str St Joseph MO |
Annual Re-Ride departs the Patee house | Follow The Ride |
| June 24th 5:30 PM PT (approx) | Hwy 50 & Stateline Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA | Join the Tahoe Visitors Authority to celebrate the 250th as the National Pony Express Nevada Division hands off to the California division during the annual Re-Ride. | Follow The ride |
| June 25th 4:30 PM PT | Old Sacramento, CA | Annual Pony Express Re-Ride arrives in Old Sacramento | Follow The Ride |
| June 27th | Presentation and Mochila Exchange | Contact – Pat Hearty | |