Become Part of America’s 250th Celebration with the Quilt Project in Williamsburg

America is gearing up for a milestone birthday in 2026, celebrating 250 years. Preparations are already underway, with exhibits and experiences popping up around the country as the date approaches. Visit Williamsburg, representing the Williamsburg region of Virginia (with cities like Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown), just launched the Great American Birthday Quilt Project, giving family travelers all across the country the opportunity to take an active role in celebrating this epic birthday.

The invitation is officially open for Americans to “stitch their story” into the “Fabric of America.” Anyone who wants to participate in this massive project is welcome to contribute a handcrafted quilt square that reflects their personal story of what it means to be a part of America. The goal is for each participant’s contribution to present a unique perspective, showcasing their hopes, dreams, history and pride in America. Together, the accepted submissions will all be put together into a monumental quilt that will showcase 250 years of American history, pride and hope.

The project, a collaborative effort led by Steve Prince, director of Engagement and Distinguished Artist in Residence, Muscarelle Museum of Art at William & Mary, and Visit Williamsburg, is accepting submissions through November, with plans to unveil the completed quilt in spring 2026 at Historic Williamsburg Visitor Center as part of the ongoing celebrations for America’s 250^th birthday.

“We are inviting people not just to submit a quilt square, but to reflect—to leave a piece of themselves in a quilt that will tell America’s story for generations,” said Prince. “Like America, quilting is layered, collaborative, and expressive. Each square holds a voice, a memory, a dream — stitched into the national narrative with shared threads of hope.”

Anyone is welcome to participate by submitting a quilt square for consideration, and there is no reason to worry if you don’t sew. Glued quilt squares are welcome as well, and creativity is encouraged so each piece gives a unique perspective and story. There will be quilt workshops around the country to help you out, and there is even a tutorial online along with guidelines and submission instructions, which can be found here.