Families gathering outdoors at a community celebration

Alton, Missouri  ·  July 5, 2026

Community
Potluck

Celebrating America's 250th Birthday

"...it becomes us to set apart a day for gratefully acknowledging the divine goodness." — George Washington

Sunday, July 5, 2026  ·  1:00 – 4:00 PM

Court Square, Alton, Missouri

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Why We're Gathering

"I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. [...] It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more" — John Adams

America's 250th — July 5, 2026

In 2026, America marks a milestone that will not come again in our lifetimes — 250 years of independence. It is a moment worthy of reflection, gratitude, and celebration.

We believe the most meaningful way to mark this occasion isn't with fireworks or fanfare — it's by gathering with our neighbors on the Court Square in Alton, Missouri, sitting together in the summer shade, sharing food we made with our own hands, and remembering what has always made this country worth celebrating.

The Community Potluck — Alton, MO 250 is free, open to everyone, alcohol-free, and built entirely around one simple idea: that community happens when neighbors show up for each other.

Bring a dish you love. Bring your lawn chair. Bring your family and your stories. That's all we ask.

Mark Your Calendar

Save the date — this one only happens once.

Date

Sunday

July 5, 2026

Time

Central Daylight Time

1:00 – 4:00 PM

Location

Court Square

Alton, Missouri

All You Need to Bring

Participation is simple. There's no ticket, no registration, no cost.

A Dish to Share

Any food you love, made with enough to share a few extra plates.

Your Lawn Chair

Seating is bring-your-own! Awnings or umbrellas for the July heat. Get comfortable and stay a while.

Your Family & Friends

The more the merrier. This is a celebration for everyone.

An Open Heart

That's all we ask. Every neighbor is welcome at this table.

Family Friendly Event Please refrain from drugs, alcohol, or using profanity All are welcome

Meet our partners

A special thanks to the local businesses, churches, and organizations helping make this celebration possible.

I want to become a partner
The Gideons International

Partner With Us

We are extending a warm and genuine invitation to the pastors, congregation leaders, businesses and civic organization representatives of our region. Whether it's the largest business or smallest country church — your community belongs at this table.

We invite you to encourage your people to attend, to bring dishes, and to help spread the word about this once-in-a-generation gathering. If your organization wishes to partner more formally, we'd love to hear from you.

Reach Out to Partner I'm a Person Not an Organization

Churches, businesses, civic organizations, and community groups are warmly invited to participate.

Come Find Us on the Square

Right in the heart of Alton, Missouri.

Court Square, Alton, Missouri 65606

Get Directions

Ready to Join Us?

We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to pledge food, volunteer, ask any questions, or let us know your ideas.

Choose an option

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Pledge Food Volunteer Ideas & Questions

Please Sign Up to Volunteer & Pledge Food by July 1st