In Person
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, tens of thousands of Americans will gather for potlucks to celebrate America’s 250th birthday – the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
July 5, 2026
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, 80% of American adults believe the nation is greatly divided. This problem feels familiar — we hear about division and polarization every day. But that isn’t the whole story.
According to More in Common, 66% of Americans believe we can learn a lot from interacting with people with differing viewpoints. Moreover, 70% of us believe we have the responsibility to do so. And Americans aren’t just interested in talking with people who think differently; we want to act together to solve problems. More in Common’s research found that Americans are “most interested in connecting across difference to work together to achieve a shared goal.” The most cited barrier to connecting across differences is a lack of opportunity.
Most Americans feel responsibility to engage in pluralism — to respect, relate, and cooperate for the common good. The challenge isn’t that we are divided; it is that many Americans don’t know how or where to interact with people who think differently than they do.
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, tens of thousands of Americans will gather for potlucks to celebrate America’s 250th birthday – the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. What better way to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary than to create opportunities for people to connect across differences? Potlucks are a warm, inviting, and joyful setting where everyone contributes something and everyone belongs.
America’s Potluck Toolkit is a step-by-step guide for hosting your potluck.
Telling the story of your potluck can attract additional attendees and supporters and increase the positive impact of your event. Consider how you can share the story of your potluck (before and/or after the event) with friends and neighbors through social media or local newspapers, TV or radio. Here are some tips for sharing your America’s Potluck story.
Interfaith America envisions an America that embraces the power of pluralism—where people cooperate across differences for the common good. As part of this mission, IA is partnering with America250 Utah to produce this toolkit to help people host potluck dinners that connect people across difference.
