COLTS NECK, New Jersey—Newly-elected New Jersey Republican Party Chair Christine Giordano Hanlon is kicking off America’s Semiquincentennial year with a celebratory gala honoring America’s 250th anniversary, calling for all New Jersey leaders and residents to commemorate this important milestone in American history. 

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to come together as Americans and put aside our differences for the good of our country,” said Hanlon. “There will always be issues and events that have the potential to divide us, but the love we have for our great nation must stand the test of time.”

The NJGOP Freedom Gala, which will be held on March 12, 2026, at Eagle Oaks Country Club in Farmingdale, will celebrate America’s founding 250 years ago when the Declaration of Independence was signed. Similar to the Bicentennial in 1976, residents across the nation will celebrate in a variety of ways, including the spectacular parade of tall ships from over 30 nations that will sail to the port of New York and New Jersey on July 4, 2026.

“We have much history to be proud of here in New Jersey, and I am excited to launch a year-long commemoration of our great nation’s birth,” said Hanlon, who announced plans for the gala along with the rollout of Semiquincentennial features on NJGOP social media channels.  

“There are so many opportunities to celebrate America, from large events that embody the American spirit to doing extra charitable works and community service, to cleaning up your environment, to educating our youth about the greatness of America and to preserving historic properties and land,” said Hanlon. “Bringing people together to celebrate our shared patriotism and American values is critical, and I urge all New Jersey leaders and residents to get involved in the celebration.”

Hanlon also points out that New Jersey is particularly significant in America’s Revolutionary War history. Known as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution,” New Jersey was the setting for more battles and skirmishes than any other colony due to its central location between New York City and Philadelphia.

“This year is not only the perfect time to reflect on our history and how we got here, but it is also a time to celebrate the enduring spirit of the American people and the great country we live in,” said Hanlon, “and it is up to every one of us to preserve and protect it for generations to come.”

For more information about the NJGOP Freedom Gala, visit NJGOP.org/freedom-gala/.

About the NJGOP 

The New Jersey Republican State Committee is the official entity of the Republican National Committee and represents more than 1.6 million Republicans registered in New Jersey. For more information, visit NJGOP.org.