We join America250

On July 4, 2026, the United States will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The commemorative period began on Memorial Day 2025 and continues nationwide through July 4, 2026.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is proud to join America250 by highlighting a relationship that dates back to the founding of the United States. In 1776, the Dutch island of St. Eustatius became the first foreign entity to recognize American independence by returning “The First Salute” to the USS Andrew Doria, marking an early expression of partnership and shared interests.

Activities include “Tulip Day on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.,” a tulip-picking garden inspired by the world-famous flower gardens the Keukenhof of the Netherlands, and a visit by a Dutch naval vessel to the U.S. East Coast as part of Sail 250. These moments will celebrate history, and the enduring partnership between our two nations.

We are also seeking grant applications for Dutch–American cultural heritage and artistic projects that illuminate Dutch contributions to U.S. independence, highlight the shared history between our two countries, and strengthen the cultural profile of the Netherlands in the United States.

The deadline for grant applications is March 1, 2026. Learn more here.

More information will be announced on our social media channels.