Tourism Spotlight: Bedford Tourism forms local committee for 250th anniversary

It’s a little hard to pronounce—but don’t let that stop you from getting excited about the United States Semiquincentennial!

On July 4, 1776, the 13 original American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain. That means in just three short years, our nation will celebrate the 250th anniversary (or semiquincentennial) of the American Revolution.

Bedford is joining a statewide effort called the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250), which was created by the General Assembly. VA250 is busy making plans for this milestone anniversary, as well as coordinating and collaborating with all 134 cities and counties in Virginia.

Counties and cities in Virginia are forming their own VA250 committees to plan local and regionally-focused events. Bedford County Tourism is taking the lead role in this initiative.

“We look forward to working with various businesses, attractions, and local residents to plan for this special commemoration,” said Nicole Johnson, Director of Tourism for Bedford County.

The local committee held its first meeting in September 2023 to begin discussions, and the Bedford County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution supporting the effort during their September 11, 2023, meeting.

While the official commemoration period has been designated as 2026-2031, there were many events leading up to the American Revolution that Virginia will be commemorating soon.

The Bedford area community is encouraged to stay connected with commemoration events and activities.

“The commemoration of the 250th anniversary of our nation offers an opportunity for all segments of our community to come together to share stories, photos, diaries/scrapbooks, artwork, thoughts, etc. about striving for the freedoms stated in the Declaration of Independence throughout the years since 1776. Everyone is encouraged to participate in ways big and small,” said local Bedford historian, Betty Lambeth Gereau.

To stay up-to-date on the semiquincentennial, visit www.va250.org, and follow @varevolution250 on social media. Destination Bedford will also be spreading the word about commemoration activities on their social media platforms.