Celebrate 250/150 in Arvada!
Big milestones deserve a great place to celebrate - Arvada is ready!
In 2026, we’re marking 250 years of the United States and 150 years of Colorado. It’s a chance to reflect on the stories that shaped us, celebrate what makes our community special, and enjoy everything that makes Arvada, well… Arvada.
As part of the State’s 150th Birthday celebration, Arvada is proud to partner with 150 Tables Across Colorado—a statewide movement inviting people to gather around shared meals, meaningful conversation, and new connections.
Where History Meets Right Now
Arvada has always been a place where past and present come together. From gold rush beginnings to a lively, creative city, our story is woven into Colorado’s story.
Spend some time exploring it:
Wander Olde Town Arvada, where historic charm envelops local shops, patios, and events
Catch a show or explore exhibits at the Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities. Tilting Westis showing now through August 23
Check out “Threads of Arvada,” the Community Quilt Challenge
Creative Writers Needed
Do you have a story looking for readers? The Arvada Arts and Culture Commission is inviting all community members to participate in the “Community Voices: Short Stories for 150/250” project, part of the City's celebration commemorating Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood and the United States’ 250th anniversary.Selected submissions will become part of the City’s Short Story Machine—a public literary kiosk that prints free short stories on demand for readers throughout the community.Find out details and submit your story on the City's Community Voices page.
Discover Arvada History
Online Historic Walking Tour of Olde Town Arvada: Learn about Arvada's unique and vast history through this self-guided online experience.
Arvada Flour Mill Museum Tours: Sundays from June through September | Tours leave at 10am and 11am. A tour guide will take you through this rare, uniquely preserved historic mill and show you how wheat was milled into flour using an ingenious design by Eugene Emory Benjamin. You’ll also learn about a simpler Arvada in the first half of the 20th century. Come immerse yourself in the past while supporting our mission to keep the mill alive! No tours on July 5, August 2 and August 30.
Celebrate Like a Local
The 250/150 celebration is happening all year long, and in Arvada, that means plenty of ways to join in.
Think:
Festivals that bring the community together
Live music spilling into the streets
Art, culture, and local flavor around every corner
Easygoing moments that turn into lasting memories
Whether you’re here for a day or staying awhile, there’s always something happening—and everyone’s invited. Keep an eye on our events page for more events like this and other special events celebrating 250/150.
Start Here, Go Anywhere
Arvada is a perfect home base for exploring Colorado during this historic year. Hop on the G Line and head into Denver, or venture out to discover more of the state’s stories, landscapes, and celebrations.
But don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to linger here a little longer.
Be Part of the Story
Anniversaries come and go—but moments like this are about connection. It’s about gathering with friends, discovering something new, and celebrating the place you’re in. In Arvada, that’s what we do best.