Official websites use .gov
A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A
lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Welcome to the City of Cambridge’s 250th Anniversary website! In celebration of the 250th anniversary of America's independence, City and state officials launched the Massachusetts 2050 campaign in September 2024. Throughout 2025 and 2026, Massachusetts 250 (or MA250) will commemorate the many battles across the City of Cambridge and the state that led to America's independence.
Cambridge has played a key role in Massachusetts’ history, from its indigenous Massachusetts tribe to milestones like the American Army’s birth, the first printing press, the first college, and the first same-sex marriage in America. Join us as we commemorate America’s Independence and embark on this journey of remembrance and celebration.
Whether you are born and raised in Cambridge, here as a student, or visiting, we invite you to explore the rich tapestry of our city's history – a story woven with strands of change, innovation, and extraordinary firsts. From the early revolutionary days to the vibrant, diverse community we are today, Cambridge has continually embraced progress and transformation all while respecting and honoring our history. This milestone is not just a reflection of our past but an exciting opportunity to honor the pioneers, visionaries, and everyday residents who shape our legacy and propel us forward.
Sign Up for Cambridge Mass250 Updates
The Massachusetts 250 Grant Program, administered through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) within the Executive Office of Economic Development, funded projects that highlight historic themes of revolution and independence, celebrate significant "firsts" in Massachusetts history, and take a creative or innovative approach to commemorating the state’s past 250 years.
The City of Cambridge is one of the grant recipients and plans to use this grant to showcase these stories through a series of engaging events. In 2025, Cambridge plans to highlight its revolutionary milestones with walking and bike tours, celebrations of veterans and innovators, and an American Army Birthday Commemoration. The festivities will culminate in a Revolution-themed Citywide Dance Party in June, celebrating Cambridge’s rich and diverse heritage.
National Poetry Month
April 2025
Kick off Cambridge 250 with Creative Events throughout the City. More details to follow.
Historic Biking and Walking Tours
April – June 2025
Tours will feature the untold overlooked stories of black soldiers in the revolution, Cambridge’s firsts/innovations, and tours of revolutionary sites that also feature revolutionary-themed public art. We are also looking at working with our regional partners on Williams Dawes’s route via bike. During the ride, we will have speakers/activities sharing historic stories at different important stops.
Birth of the American Army Celebration
June 14, 2025
Prince Hall Celebration
June 2025, Day TBD. More details to follow.
Revolution Citywide Dance Party
June 27, 2025
To stay up-to-date about what's happening with the Cambridge Mass250 campaign, please sign up for emails about programming and events.
Visit the Mass 250 website to learn more: https://massachusetts250.org.
For additional information, please contact Cambridge250@cambridgema.gov.
To stay informed about all things Cambridge, please sign up for the City of Cambridge Daily Update Newsletter.
As a governmental entity, the Massachusetts Public Records Law applies to records made or received by the City. Any information received through use of this site is subject to the same provisions as information provided on paper.
Read our complete privacy statement
Enter a service request via SeeClickFix for things like missed trash pickups, potholes, etc., click here
