In 2026, America marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and is celebrating on stages across America. Read on to find out what the Turner Center has planned.
Celebrating Our
Nation's 250th Anniversary
Event Schedule
18th Annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest Awards Reception
Turner Center Galleries | 5-7pm
July 20
American Soundtrack Vol. XIII
Rainwater Conference Center | 6:30pm
Aug. 22
Music in the Art Park: 2RiverStation
Turner Center Art Park | 7-9pm
Sept. 11
Beyond the Book: A Literary Event
Turner Center Galleries | 10am-3pm
Sept. 12
9th Annual ARToberfest
Turner Center Art Park | 10am-3pm
Oct. 24
Wings of Courage Documentary
Turner Center Art Park | 10am-3pm
The America250 celebration concludes with a special screening of the award-winning documentary “The Flight of Jackie Cochran,” honoring the remarkable life of aviation pioneer Jackie Cochran. In collaboration with the Wings of Courage tour and Moody Air Force Base, we will be showing this documentary at the Turner Center for the Arts.
A contemporary and rival of Amelia Earhart, Cochran shattered more speed, altitude, and distance records than any pilot of her era—male or female. She became the first woman to break the sound barrier and founded the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II, forever changing opportunities for women in military aviation. Her inspiring story reminds audiences that the American spirit is defined by perseverance, innovation, and the courage to pursue the impossible.
This event is free to the public, but requires an RSVP – click HERE or the RSVP button to let us know you’re coming! For more information, call 229.247.2787.
