History Happenings is your go-to guide for upcoming events, programs, and special date-specific activities commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. From engaging experiences to community celebrations, this page highlights everything happening across Irving and in the community. Whether you’re looking for ways to participate, connect, or celebrate, you’ll find a variety of opportunities to get involved. Be sure to check back often as new events and experiences are added regularly!
February 2026
February 4 through Summer 2026
Wish Wall: Our Hopes for America
A participatory public art installation inviting visitors to share their hopes for the nation’s future. In celebration of the United States Semiquincentennial, the Irving Archives and Museum unveiled its America 250 Wish Wall. This interactive mural, painted by Dallas-based artist Ruth Monjaras, invites guests to share their hopes for the next chapter of our nation’s story. Inspired by the nationwide Made By Us initiative Wish Walls for America's 250th, the Wish Wall encourages community members to add their wishes throughout the summer at Irving Archives and Museum, located at 801 W. Irving Blvd.
March 2026
april 2026
April 14, 2026
Smithsonian Curator to Speak on How Spaceflight Is Remembered
The Irving Department of Arts and Culture (IDAC) will host a lecture featuring space historian Dr. Margaret A. Weitekamp on April 14, presented in collaboration with Smithsonian Affiliations. The program will take place at 7:00 p.m. at the Irving Arts Center located at 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. Come explore the human side of space exploration and rediscover the curiosity that inspires us to keep reaching for the stars.
Learn more.
may 2026
june 2026
June 17, 2026
Slice of History – “Past and Present”
A lively evening of short "PRESENT"-ations exploring connections between historical moments and contemporary civic life. Specific theme and presentation sign-ups coming soon!
June 19 - July 4, 2026 - Civic Season
IAM will participate in the National Civic Season Initiative organized by Made by Us.
Juneteenth Celebrations
June 13, 2026
City of Irving's Juneteenth festivities at Heritage Park
6 to 9 p.m.
The museum team will be at the historic train depot hosting a pop-up Wish Wall.
June 19,2026
The Jackie Townsell Bear Creek Heritage Center will be open for special hours on June 19, 2026!
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
More details coming soon.
july 2026
July 4, 2026
City of Irving July 4th Festivities
Sparks & Stripes: Parade + Family Fun
9:00 am
Join family and friends in the Heritage District for the wonderful sights and sounds of marching bands, floats and all things red-white-and-blue! After the parade, head over to Heritage Park (217 S. Main St.) for a family-friendly celebration with live music, games, fun and much more!
While you're at Heritage Park, be sure to stop by the historic train depot where IAM and the Irving Heritage Society will be hosting a pop-up
Wish Wall for participants are invited to share their wish for America's 250th. Attendees can also decorate their own hand fan to take with them and help keep cool while enjoying the festivities!
About America250 in Irving
The Irving Archives & Museum is participating in America250 through exhibitions, lectures, community programs, and partnerships that highlight the complexity and richness of the American experience.
Our approach focuses on four guiding themes:
• Innovation and Progress
• Civic Participation
• Community-Centered Storytelling
• Future-Facing Reflection
Through these initiatives, IAM invites residents and visitors to explore how history continues to shape civic life and community identity.
