Submitted by City of Carmel
This year marks the important milestones of the United States of America celebrating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Carmel passing 50 years since it became a city.
To celebrate these exciting anniversaries, Mayor Sue Finkam is calling for a community-wide effort to educate, engage, and connect residents and visitors to this shared history.
Finkam
“These milestones give us a great opportunity to reflect on both our national and local history, celebrate our community and look ahead to the future,” Finkam said.
Plans are beginning to take shape for the two milestones, with initiatives for both taking place throughout the year.
Multiple organizations, including the Carmel Mayor’s Youth Council, Carmel Clay Schools, the Carmel Clay Historical Society, and the Carmel Clay Public Library are actively planning events and initiatives. To expand upon those celebrations, the mayor is calling on neighborhoods, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and families to offer up creative ways to acknowledge the two milestones.
“We’re encouraging residents, organizations and businesses to share their own ideas to observe America 250 and Carmel 50,” Finkam said. “This is an opportunity to tell our story, celebrate our community and bring people together in ways that reflect what makes Carmel special. The most exciting part of this effort is what the community will create.”
While city officials look forward to sharing a full calendar of events later this spring, they would love to hear your ideas for the celebration. Current activities already in development include:
- America 250 Poster Contest organized by Mayor Finkam and announced Tuesday, March 10
- Special initiatives from Move Carmel including the Move with the Mayor walk, bringing residents together for health and connection in ways that acknowledge the nation’s founding
- Special designations during the city’s annual civic ceremonies including Memorial, Veterans, and Remembrance Day Ceremonies
- Signature City events like Americana on Main (Thursdays, June 11 through July 2) and CarmelFest (July 3 and 4) all playing a role in recognizing the milestones
Residents and organizations interested in supporting and participating in the efforts are encouraged to visit the City’s 250/50 celebration website and register their own events to be featured on the City of Carmel’s official list of America 250 / Carmel 50 Celebrations.