Close Up Prepares to Celebrate America 250 in D.C. and Philadelphia
July 15, 2025 by
In the spring and summer of 2026, Close Up is offering a powerful opportunity for students to experience American history where it happened, and to consider how they can help shape what comes next.
To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Close Up’s America 250 Commemorative High School Program will give students an immersive look into the people, places, and ideas that have defined American democracy for the past two and a half centuries.
Spanning six days and five nights beginning Sunday, April 12, or Sunday, June 7, the program will take students to two of the most historically significant cities in the country: Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. In Philadelphia, participants will explore Independence Hall—the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and ultimately signed—as well as the Liberty Bell and other foundational landmarks that symbolize the nation’s birth.
In Washington, D.C., students will walk the halls of Capitol Hill, meet with elected officials or their staff, and visit the city’s world-renowned monuments and museums to examine our collective history, culture, and enduring political values.
A key component of the program is its series of interactive civic workshops. Highlights include a Mock Congress simulation that allows students to take on the roles of legislators, debate bills, and learn firsthand how policymaking happens in a representative democracy. These collaborative sessions foster public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership skills, as well as build new friendships among peers from across the country.
Close Up President Mia Charity emphasized the program’s deeper mission: “As we mark 250 years of American democracy, we are excited to provide opportunities that help young people learn about our rich history and empower them to shape the future.”
The America 250 Commemorative High School Program is more than just a trip; it’s an unforgettable journey through the ideals and institutions that continue to shape the United States. With Close Up’s all-inclusive, safety-first approach, students can fully engage in this historic milestone with confidence and purpose.
Registration is now open! For more information about this program, simply fill out an interest form or reach out to your school’s Close Up representative today.
