250th anniversary of the United States

Hennepin County is recognizing the United States Semiquincentennial, the nation’s 250th anniversary, by developing, supporting and promoting programming focused on state, local and Indigenous history that shaped our land, communities, government and culture.

Power of Place

We're showcasing our vibrant history, diverse communities and democratic traditions. Our programming draws on the American Association for State and Local History’s field guide and a collaboration with the Hennepin History Museum. Our central theme, Power of Place, focuses on local stories, people, and our unique spaces and places.

Supporting themes include:

• We the People – recognizing our journey towards a more equitable nation and national and community belonging
• Unfinished Revolutions – to highlight ongoing movements for rights, representation, equality, and social and political change.

Event highlights

May 9 – 10: Doors Open Minneapolis, Hennepin County Government Center, Minneapolis City Hall, Hennepin History Museum

May 1 – June 5: Student art exhibit - Belonging Begins Here: Our Stories, Our County, and Our Pride

June – August: weekly Go Outside with Hennepin County series 

June 9: Hennepin 5K run/walk at Hennepin County Government Center

June 11 – 13: Hennepin County Fair 

Week of July 4: Lowry Bridge lighting red, white and blue

July 14: Hennepin Highlight board recap 

Details to be announced

• Veterans Monument Groundbreaking, Hennepin County Government Center
• Historical panel discussion at Hennepin County Library

Past events

• National County Government Month: Highlight the 250th anniversary by recognizing the essential role of county governments in communities.
• Hennepin History Museum exhibits and events