MANALAPAN — The state of New Jersey has launched its celebration of the nation’s 250th Anniversary, with a focus on the state’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. The multi-year commemoration, which will take place from 2026 to 2033, was kicked off at Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan. The launch event featured participation from Governor Phil Murphy, Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. It included musical accompaniments, a posting and retirement of the colors by reenactors, and an essay read by a student winner of a scholastic contest. “New Jersey is not just home to revolutionary history—we are, to this day, the birthplace for revolutionary possibilities,” said Murphy. “From our eclectic culinary landscape, to our leadership in emerging industries like clean-energy and generative Artificial Intelligence, to our steadfast reputation as one of the most diverse states in the nation, New Jersey is where the future is being built. As we launch New Jersey’s official Commemoration of America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration—and prepare to welcome in visitors from across the globe—we are going to unite together around our core, American values every step of the way.” The celebration will be led by RevolutionNJ, New Jersey’s official organization charged with planning and promoting the state’s 250th anniversary commemoration. RevolutionNJ serves as New Jersey’s representative to America250, the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. “America250 is thrilled to welcome New Jersey as it joins dozens of states and territories in coordinating events and programs in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Rosie Rios, America250 Chair. “As one of the 13 original colonies, New Jersey will play a vital role in marking this historic moment. Governor Murphy’s leadership and the work of RevolutionNJ, along with the $25 million investment to revitalize New Jersey’s Revolutionary War sites, will ensure the stories of New Jersey’s role in our nation’s independence are brought to life for generations to come.” Five of the ten Revolutionary War sites slated for revitalization are located in Mercer County and surrounding areas — the Old Barracks in Trenton, the Battle Monument in Trenton, Princeton Battlefield State Park, Rockingham in Kingston, and Washington Crossing State Park. The state has allocated a $25 million investment from federal American Rescue Plan funds to restore these and other key Revolutionary War sites across New Jersey. “In a time when the nation is divided on many issues, this anniversary provides an invaluable opportunity to re-engage our colleagues, neighbors, and most importantly our students, with the ideals of the Revolution – liberty, equality, justice – and to recommit to working together toward that more perfect union that Americans have long striven for,” said Sara Cureton, Executive Director of the New Jersey Historical Commission.