Update: 250th Anniversary of U.S. Army Celebration at Cambridge Common Postponed

Event Update: Due to weather concerns forecasted Saturday morning and early afternoon, the 250th Anniversary of the United States Army event at the Cambridge Common will be postponed to Monday, July 7 (start time TBD). 

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The City of Cambridge and the Office of the Mayor, in proud partnership with the Department of Veterans Services, invites residents of all ages to a special community celebration honoring the 250th Anniversary of the United States Army. The event will be held at the Cambridge Common, located at 1500 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, on Saturday, June 14, starting at 10:30 a.m.

This family-friendly event aims to bring the community together to recognize this significant milestone in American history and honor the service and sacrifice of Army personnel, past and present and future. This celebration is an opportunity for Cambridge residents to connect, enjoy a day of entertainment, and show appreciation for the Army's enduring legacy and the contributions of our local veterans.

View event flyer: Blue and White Modern Veterans Day Flyer

Join neighbors for a day filled with fun, food, and festivities. Enjoy live musical performances curated for maximum enjoyment, featuring the energetic sounds of Monkeys with Crayons and the cool rhythms of the Uncle Sam Jazz Band. A brief ceremony will be held at the beginning of the proceedings with remarks from Major Sarah Johnson, U.S. Army (retired).

Get a taste of adventure and test your Army skills on engaging obstacle courses, designed for fun competition. Younger attendees will have an opportunity to enjoy a dedicated kids' bounce house, caricature artist, face painter, balloon artist, petting zoo complete with a pony, and a 90-gallon dunk tank. Delicious food options will also be available throughout the event.

All Cambridge families and residents are encouraged to come out and participate in this memorable occasion.

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress voted to establish the Continental Army. This action marked the creation of America’s first national military force, more than a year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For 250 years, the United States Army has played a vital role in defending America. From the Revolutionary War to the present day, Americans have served selflessly–many sacrificing their lives–in defense of the country.

The Army’s 250th Anniversary event is part of the City of Cambridge’s local Massachusetts 250 campaign, a City and statewide initiative to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence and Massachusetts’ revolutionary legacy. Cambridge played a key role in Massachusetts’ history, including milestones like the American Army’s birth, the first printing press, the first college, and the first same-sex marriage in America.

Throughout 2025 and 2026, the City of Cambridge will showcase stories that highlight historic themes of revolution and independence through a series of engaging events. Revolutionary milestones will be featured through walking and bike tours, scavenger hunts, poetry readings, celebrations of veterans and innovators, and more. 2025 festivities will culminate in a Revolution-themed Cambridge Dance Party on Friday, June 27, celebrating Cambridge’s rich and diverse heritage.

To learn more about Cambridge Mass 250 campaign, please visit https://www.cambridgema.gov/mass250initiative or email Cambridge250@cambridgema.gov.