As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the State of Utah is working with the America250 Utah Commission on programming to celebrate and commemorate the anniversary. Utahns and all Americans are invited to gather, share a meal, and take part in ‘America’s Potluck’ on July 5, 2026, a nationwide celebration of connection, culture, and community in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The idea is simple: bring a dish, pull up a chair, and gather with neighbors, friends or family. On the same day, across all 50 states and Puerto Rico, Americans will take part in a shared moment rooted in one of the country’s most enduring traditions – coming together around food.

“Food has always been a powerful way for families to share their stories and celebrate who we are, and especially for agricultural families in our state,” said ValJay Rigby, President of the Utah Farm Bureau. “For many families, the journey of becoming American is carried through food traditions, a simple, joyful way to honor the freedoms we enjoy. This potluck is a way for communities across Utah and our country to come together in a shared moment of unity.”

While the celebration will span the nation, Utah is helping lead the effort, working alongside states, territories, and more than 70 national partners to bring communities together.

“America’s Potluck is about something every Utahn understands: bringing people together,” said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. “In a time when connection matters more than ever, this is a simple way to gather, reflect, and celebrate the freedoms we share. I hope Utahns across the state will pull up a chair and take part.”

Communities across Utah are already planning local gatherings, from parks and town squares to backyards and neighborhood streets, creating opportunities for people to connect in ways that feel natural and meaningful.

“Food has always been one of the most powerful ways we connect with each other,” said Utah Congresswoman Celeste Maloy. “America’s Potluck is an opportunity to celebrate not just our history, but the everyday traditions and conversations that bring people together.”

Local leaders are also embracing the effort as a way to strengthen ties within their communities.

“What better way to celebrate 250 years of American freedom and an industry that supports us all than by gathering at the same table?” said Dustin Cox, mayor of Alton, Utah, and a member of the Utah Farm Bureau Board of Directors. “In our small town, we’re excited to invite our neighbors to come celebrate and connect through food.”

Utah’s America250 Commission is coordinating the state’s participation and helping connect people with local events and resources.

“Utah is proud to help lead this effort alongside all 50 states and Puerto Rico,” said Nicole Handy, executive director of America250 Utah. “This is about creating a shared moment across the country, starting in our own neighborhoods. So, on July 4th, celebrate with your family, attend parades, and light fireworks. Then the next day, on Sunday, July 5th, let’s unite with our neighbors, break bread, and build connections.”

Participating is easy. Utahns can host their own gathering, join a nearby event, or find resources to help plan at AmericasPotluck.org, which includes an interactive map, planning tools, and ideas for bringing people together.

“We encourage you to pin and share the potluck you are participating in – whether you are inviting others to join you or you can also keep it private,” Handy said. “There’s no one way to do it, and we look forward to seeing the variety of celebrations taking place.”

Visit AmericasPotluck.org for information on how to register your potluck, an interactive map to help you find one, conversation starters, decorations, and more ideas on how to celebrate. You can also find recipes to try out, including several submitted by Utah Farm Bureau members.

America250 Utah, a commission appointed by Gov. Cox, is committed to commemorating the milestone anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, not just as a pivotal moment in American history but also through the unique and rich lens of Utah's heritage. Learn more about all six Utah initiatives here: america250.utah.gov.


You can also hear more in depth about America''s Potluck via the Cows, Plows, and Things That Grow podcast.