Visit Williamsburg is celebrating America250 with call for contributions; deadline is Feb. 28.
Wiliamsburg, founded in 1699, is part of Virginia’s “Historic Triangle,” which according to Visit Williamsburg is “known as the Birthplace of America and home to the world's largest living U.S. history museum … this is where the nation’s story began.” In that spirit, as part of both the national and state semiquincentennial celebrations, the destination marketing organization is inviting all Americans to contribute handmade quilt blocks that, combined, will form a Great American Birthday Quilt in 2026.
The project’s website offers design guidance: “Each block should illustrate what you want to celebrate most about America. You can take inspiration from anywhere, such as inspiring people (past and present), places you love, iconic landmarks, famous quotes and historic events.” There are specifications for each entered block, which “can be rejected if they do not meet standards for design or appropriate content or are not received before the submission deadline. Submission of a block does not guarantee inclusion in the final quilt.”
Quilt block must be exactly 12” x 12”, 12” x 14”, 16” x 16” or 16” x 20”.
Quilt block can be made from any type of fabric.
Quilt block can be sewn or glued together.
Only fabric glue that adheres to muslin can be used.
Bonus: incorporate red, white and/or blue in each block.
Acceptable materials to adhere to the fabric are buttons, yarn, felt, paper, ribbon, sequins, feathers. Any other materials adhered to the fabric may result in the submission not being used in the quilt.
Prepare your quilt block for shipping by wrapping in plastic.
Once complete, blocks can be mailed to or dropped off at the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce by Feb. 28, 2026. For specific questions related to the project, email info@visitwilliamsburg.com. Details will be released soon on upcoming workshops.
By National Executive Committee resolution, American Legion departments and posts are encouraged to connect with their state and local America250 commissions. An online directory is available to contact these commissions at america250.org/our-partners/state-and-territory-commissions. Share your stories of involvement on Legiontown.
- USA250