America 250 - Colorado 150 Commemoration
Next year marks the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood (it’s our sesquicentennial). At the same time, America is celebrating 250 years since signing the Declaration of Independence (its semiquincentennial).
Together, in 2026, Colorado and America celebrate our Sesquisemiquincentennial, or what we call the 250-150 for short!
This once-in-a-lifetime moment is an opportunity to reflect on our shared history, celebrate our communities, and shape the future together. These statewide efforts are being led by the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission, and communities across our state are planning celebrations.
These combined anniversaries provide an opportunity for us to come together around our shared ideals.
CDA has been planning our own way to mark these important anniversaries. Our working theme for celebration in 2026 is “Setting Colorado’s Table: 150 Years of Agricultural Legacy."
This page will be updated with more information as it becomes available.
Open Call for Muralists
CDA is seeking applications from artists interested in a large mural that showcases Colorado’s agricultural history: past, present, and future. The mural, which should be at least is at least 16 feet tall by 20 feet wide. The project will need to be completed by the end of December. CDA is looking for artists based in Colorado, who have previous mural experience and can present a vision that is bold, bright, and vibrant.
The mural will be unveiled at the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) in January 2026. The piece may travel around the state throughout the next several months, with its final celebration occurring at the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo in August 2026.
Applications are being accepted through the close of business on Friday, August 1. Top finalists will be notified no later than mid-August and invited to present their proposal to a selection committee. Selected top finalists will receive a $500 stipend to create a design proposal presentation. Final artist selection will be made in September.
CDA has issued an Open Call for Muralist, which details the scope of the project and how to apply.
Other 250-150 projects
Coffee Table Book
CDA has been collaborating with History Colorado to produce a coffee table book that elevates the histories and stories of Colorado agriculture. The multimedia project will include ways to listen to oral histories from Colorado farmers and ranchers.
Harvest Table Dinners
In addition, CDA will be working with our partners in communities across Colorado to put together events across the state in 2026. These events will include harvest table dinners that will help Coloradans connect to agriculture, the people who grow their food, and to one another.
Recent Press Releases
Open Call for Muralists to Celebrate Colorado’s Agricultural Legacy (July 8, 2025)