This page will provide a direct link to America’s National Celebration of the 250th, offering a wealth of information on events, competitions, and creative ideas to get involved. Whether you’re looking for nationwide activities, opportunities to showcase your own event, or ways to participate in exciting competitions, you’ll find everything you need to join in on this monumental celebration. We will keep you updated on the latest news and provide resources for those interested in contributing to the commemoration of this historic milestone. From large-scale events to fun, interactive challenges, this page will be your go-to source for all things related to America’s Semiquincentennial celebration!
https://america250.org/fieldtrip/faqs
SAR Oratory Contest Rules and Requirements
SAR Oratory Contest
“Develop a Lifetime Success Skill of Public Speaking“
“This competition is open to all High School students in grades 9-12. All students are invited to apply, with application materials being detailed here.
For a Memorized Oratory performance of 5-6 minutes, relating of any topic to the US Revolutionary War, in order to earn college scholarship funding. Over 7 years, NC Orators have won over $34,000 in scholarships.
Reward amounts vary on level, with winners receiving:
-$250 locally -$750 state-wide -$8,000 nationally
“Your ability to communicate with others with account for 85% of your success in business and life.” -Brian Tracy
2026 Contest Timetable:
-Jan 15: Registration Deadline
–March 21: Local Competition Deadline
-March 28: NC SAR State competition, Greensboro
-July 12: National Finals, Greensboro
The Contest
“What does America mean to you?”
“Today’s young people are the leaders, innovators, and thinkers who will shape the next 250 years — and it’s important their voices are heard as we commemorate this historic milestone.
America’s Field Trip is a nationwide contest that invites students across the country in grades 3–12 to be part of our nation’s 250th anniversary by sharing their perspectives on what America means to them — with the chance to earn an unforgettable field trip experience at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.
Students are asked to submit writing or original artwork in response to the contest’s prompt: “What does America mean to you?”
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, America’s Field Trip is expanding with more exciting field trips, and more opportunities for students to win. A total of 250 students will be awarded a special behind-the-scenes field trip experience this summer or a cash prize.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest ends 5:00 pm PT/8:00 p.m. ET on 3/30/26. Open to U.S. students (3rd – 12th grade); student’s parent/legal guardian or teacher with parental permission must submit Entry on student’s behalf (unless student is age of majority). Submission includes grant of license rights to Entry’s Content. First Prize awardees must travel with parent/legal guardian on designated dates. See Official Rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, prize description/restrictions and judging procedure. Void where prohibited.“
