America 250: Through Your Lens

As we reflect on America at 250, we invite you to share what makes your community special–your civic pride, history, and the everyday moments that reflect possibilities for the future.

Marching in the Memorial Day parade, Galesburg, Illinois
Marching in the Memorial Day parade, Galesburg, Illinois (Pop. 32,195).
Emancipation Day Celebration parade in Thomaston, Georgia
Emancipation Day Celebration parade in Thomaston, Georgia (Pop. 6,778). Image credit: King C. Davis
Our Postville Community Heart & Soul in Parade, Postville, Iowa
Our Postville Community Heart & Soul in Parade, Postville, Iowa (Pop. 2,503).
Community Parade, Essex, Vermont.
Community Parade, Essex, Vermont (Pop. 11,500).
Vermont Country Store's 70th birthday bash parade including a float of the store, Weston, Vermont (Pop. 623).
Vermont Country Store’s 70th birthday bash parade including a float of the store, Weston, Vermont (Pop. 623).

Community Heart & Soul wants to see how your community is celebrating this summer!
Share the traditions, connections, and spirit that bring people together where you live—and be part of a nationwide story of community for America’s 250th.

Submit your photos below and tell us a little about what they show—whether it’s a parade, a neighborhood get-together or a full sky of fireworks, we’re excited to see celebrations from across our country! The winning submitter will receive a gift card to a local restaurant of their choice to celebrate what makes their Heart & Soul town unique.

Name(Required)
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 128 MB, Max. files: 5.
    File Use Consent(Required)

    For full official contest rules, please visit our separate page here.

    Tips for Great Photos

    • No need to be a professional—phone photos are perfect!
    • Make sure your photos are clear and easy to see.
    • Submit images that show off what makes your town’s summer exciting, whether directly on July 4th or throughout the season.
    • Write a few details about the people and places in the moments you’re sharing so we can gather the stories behind them.