The City of Auburn’s Historic and Cultural Sites Commission is pleased to announce its participation in commemorating America’s 250th birthday in 2026. In honor of this semi quincentennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Commission is supporting a series of local events throughout the year. These events will highlight the rich stories of our local people and places, reflecting on our nation’s past, present, and future. Join us in commemorating this significant milestone as Americans across the nation come together to honor our shared history and envision the next 250 years.
America 250 Programming: Spring and Summer
"The Reel American West" Exhibit
Opening on February 4, 2026 at the Cayuga Museum of History and Art, this exhibit highlights the history of Westerns, Ted Case’s role in the production of the first sound-on-film western, and the representation of women, Black cowboys, and Indigenous people.
Harriet Tubman Day
Celebrate the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman in her chosen hometown on March 10, 2026. Hosted by the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park and the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center, programming will include tours of Tubman's church, a city proclamation ceremony and honoring of Tubman's familial descendants, an evening keynote lecture, and more.
Frontenac Music Series
The Frontenac Historical Society, a local history museum in Union Springs located on the Sullivan Clinton Campaign route, will explore the history of war, forgotten women's history, and the ramifications of dispossession by hosting a year-long music series. The first though-provoking performance will be on March 15, 2026.
Revolutionary Exhibitions
In 2026, the Cayuga Museum’s exhibitions will all relate to the themes of America 250. Highlights will include stories of Cayuga County’s early development during and following the American Revolutionary War. The major themes include “Social Justice”, “Political Landscape”, and “Indigenous Art/Connection to Land”. More information coming soon!
Willard Chapel History with Mike Long
On May 10, 2026, The Community Preservation Committee will host a one hour talk and slideshow presentation with Mike Long exploring the history of the Auburn Theological Seminary and Willard Chapel, and how this local institution connects to America’s broader story. More information coming soon!
"Founding Immigrants" Exhibit
This spring, the Seward House Museum will open an exhibition that will explore the nation's history of immigration, particularly in the mid-19th century, and William Seward's political involvement. Two programs, the first of which is on May 13, will host professor and author Carl Bon Tempo.
Contemporary Haudenosaunee Art Exhibition and Festival
A contemporary Haudenosaunee art exhibition, curated by Dr. Jolene Rickard, will be on view at the Schweinfurth Art Center from May 30-September 19. An opening festival on June 6 will be full of family-friendly activities. More information coming soon!
Pride Rally, Drag Show, and Queer Market
Celebrate Pride Month at Auburn's June 12-13 weekend celebration. On the morning of the 13th, the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center will host its annual Pride Rally, family-friendly drag show, and Saturday market that features LGBTQ+ artisans, vendors, and entertainment. Tours centered around LGBTQ+ history will also be offered. More information coming soon!
"What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?"
On June 18, experience an interactive dramatic performance at Auburn Public Theater. This will feature a recitation of Frederick Douglass' famous speech, along with responses about the 250th's meaning from various community members. More information coming soon!
"A Subject for the Fourth of July"
Commemorate Independence Day at the Seward House Museum on July 3rd! Costumed actors will reenact some of Seward's famous Fourth of July speeches, and the historic house will be open for First Friday with complimentary food and drink. More information coming soon!
"Echoes of America"
Experience the sounds of organist Susan May at the Willard Memorial Chapel on July 12. She will bring American music to life, from early hymns to modern works, sharing quick insights that connect each piece to moments in our nation’s history. More information coming soon!
"Harriet Tubman: A Taste of Freedom" Exhibition
The Cayuga Museum is proud to present a travelling art exhibition that celebrates Tubman's life and legacy in her chosen hometown. Curated by Larry Poncho Brown, the exhibition will include 30+ pieces from various artists that will be placed at different historic and cultural sites. The exhibition will be on from July 18-October 17. More information coming soon!
