City of Winter Haven Releases Proclamation Commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary
by James Coulter
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the City of Winter Haven has issued an official proclamation recognizing both the nation’s founding and Florida’s contributions to the fight for independence.
At the city commission’s regular meeting on Mon. June 8, 2026, Mayor Brian Yates offered an official proclamation commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
“The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead to the future generations who will carry forward the ideals of democracy and individual liberty that make the United States a unique nation in the world community,” the proclamation read.
The proclamation also recognized the role Florida played during the American War of Independence, with the state being the location of four battles: the Battle at Thomas Creek, the Battle at Alligator Creek Bridge, the Siege of Pensacola, and the Last Naval Battle of the American Revolution off the coast of Cape Canaveral.
Presenting this proclamation was the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a non -political women’s service organization consisting of members descended from patriots in the American War for Independence.
To commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary, DAR will be spending the next three years with nationwide projects and special events “honoring all men and women who achieved American independence.”
A local chapter will host an event at Central Park in Downtown Winter Haven on July 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.The event will be part of a worldwide collaboration featuring simultaneous public readings of the Declaration of Independence to commemorate the 250th anniversary of its first public reading.
Laura Stokes, a member of the Ponce de Leon chapter, expressed her gratitude for being able to participate with her organization in commemorating the upcoming historic milestone of America’s founding.
“We are proud to join Florida and the City of Winter Haven in commemorating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding,” she said. “We appreciate the opportunity to reflect on America’s history, recognize Florida’s unique part in that history, and unite our community in the spirit of patriotism.”
The City also released two proclamations that evening, recognizing Juneteenth and Waste and Recycle Workers Week.
Winter Haven will be hosting its annual Independence Day celebration, Rockin’ Freedom Fest, on Fri. July 3, 2026, at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park on Lake Silver. Festivities start at 6 PM and will include a performance by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski team and a fireworks show later that evening. Learn more at: mywinterhaven.com
