
A year long national, immersive augmented reality experience
Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary
Sign The Declaration of Independence
In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the Declaration of Independence — a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on our founding ideals and recommit to the promise that belongs to all of us. At a time when millions of Americans are seeking meaning, belonging, and connection, America's 250th is more than a celebration — it’s a national invitation to participate in a shared story that includes everyone. At the heart of this effort is Signing the American Promise — a year-long, immersive augmented reality activation that blends storytelling, music, and cutting edge technology to bring history to life in public spaces across all 50 states, 14 U.S. territories, and every military base worldwide. Anchored by the 51 Steps to Freedom® Trail in Washington, DC — the largest outdoor museum in the world — this experience turns commemoration into civic re-engagement. Participants will experience George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others come to life through AR. They’ll digitally sign a living Declaration of Independence, joining millions in a national recommitment to liberty and self-government. They’ll launch digital fireworks, discover untold stories, and leave their mark on a growing digital archive of America’s future — one voice at a time.
Want to Host the Experience?
Bring Signing the Promise to your campus, city, business, home, church, event, or museum.
Want to Power It Nationwide?Partner with us to bring the experience to all 50 states, territories, and military bases.

"We share the vision that 51 Steps teaches how citizens have—and still can—actively participate in their government and society. It’s a living civics lesson in how democracy works, and how you can take part."
Founder & Chair Emeritus, Trust for the National Mall, Chip Akridge & Sally Akridge
Bring Sign The Experience To Your Community
Host this experience in your community.
Whether you're a university, museum, library, city agency, military base, or community group — Signing the American Promise can be part of your America250 celebration!
Each local activation includes:
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Immersive augmented reality activation about America's founding principles
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Civic storytelling tools to celebrate America250
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A chance for your community to digitally sign the Declaration of Independence
Hosting is easy.
Our team provides setup and community engagement resources.
Interested in hosting? CLICK HERE
Sign The Promise Sneak Peek
Why This Matters
National Reach
From Washington, DC to every town in America and military bases overseas — we’re going everywhere.
Local Connection
This nationwide activation connects us together one community at a time.
Civic Re-engagement
This isn’t just about remembering — it’s about recommitting.
A Lasting Legacy
Your name. Your story. Your promise — part of a digital monument for generations to come.

"Signing the Promise" is a clarion call for all of us — to rediscover what binds us together. To remind ourselves that our strength lies not in our sameness, but in shared purpose and a future where every voice is heard, and every story is honored."
~ HH Leonards
Co-Founder, 51 Steps To Freedom




