The America250 NC Buncombe County Committee (Buncombe250) will host Community Listening Sessions to gather public input and ideas for projects, events, and programs leading up to the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026. These interactive sessions invite residents, organizations, and community leaders to help shape how Buncombe County commemorates this milestone locally and contributes to the statewide celebration.

“We’re here to share America250 NC resources, and hear your ideas — what you’d like to see and how you’d like to participate,” said Glenn Stach, Director of America250 NC Buncombe County. “The 250th is about connecting our shared history to our shared future, and we want everyone in Buncombe County to contribute to this momentous commemoration.”

The session will include remarks from state partners with the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, who will highlight statewide resources and opportunities for local communities to participate in the 250th anniversary celebration. A facilitated discussion will guide participants through conversations about the significance of the semiquincentennial (the 250th), key stories from Buncombe County’s history, and creative ways to honor the past, present, and future. Attendees will also explore opportunities to get involved in initiatives such as commemorative tree plantings through the “Beyond the Liberty Tree” program, as well as educational and civic projects, local arts and history initiatives, community service efforts, and public celebrations.

By gathering local input, Buncombe250 aims to unite local organizations in a county-wide commemoration that inspires and reflects Buncombe’s community spirit.