The Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts invites the community to join in a celebration of America250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through the unifying power of the arts.

From Independence Day through Veterans Day, the Turner Center is presenting a series of events that showcase how American creativity inspires belonging, preserves history, and strengthens community across generations. Through photography, music, literature, visual arts, and film, these programs will celebrate the people, places, and stories that define the American experience.

JUNE-JULY – Hometown USA

The 18th Annual Valdosta People’s Choice Photo Contest Awards Ceremony launched in June, celebrating photographers of all ages and skill levels in the spirit of "Hometown USA." Entries highlighting the landscapes, traditions, people, and moments that make our community uniquely American are on display in the Turner Center’s Tillman Gallery. Photographers will be awarded $1,000 in cash prizes at the Photo Contest Awards Reception on Monday, July 20, at 5 p.m. Co-hosted by the City of Valdosta Mayor, the event will also highlight a new Mayor's Favorite Award and celebrate increased participation from members of the Moody Air Force Base community.

AUGUST – American Soundtrack

The Turner Center presents American Soundtrack on Saturday, August 22, an unforgettable evening celebrating the music that has shaped our nation. Held at the Valdosta Conference Center, the event will feature the Ed Barr Orchestra, outstanding local vocalists, and a special presentation by the Moody Air Force Base Honor Guard. Guests will enjoy great music, delicious food, and fellowship in a festive, patriotic atmosphere.

SEPTEMBER – Literary Fair

The annual Literary Fair will showcase regional authors, book signings, and readings of iconic American works, celebrating the written word and the enduring voices that have shaped our local region and nation's literary heritage, as well.

OCTOBER – ARToberfest

The Turner Center's beloved ARToberfest returns for its 9^th year with regional artists, live music, food trucks, plein air painting, children's activities, and hands-on art experiences for all ages. A special America250 Community Mural Project will invite festival-goers to help create a permanent public artwork celebrating our nation's 250th anniversary. The finished mural will become part of the Art Park fencing, serving as a lasting symbol of American pride and community creativity.

NOVEMBER – Wings of Courage

The America250 celebration concludes with a special screening of the award-winning documentary Wings of Courage, honoring the remarkable life of aviation pioneer Jackie Cochran. 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.

“These America250 events complement the Turner Center's robust year-round programming and reflect the Center’s ongoing commitment to enriching lives through the arts,” said Executive Director Sementha Mathews, Ph.D. “These events also foster civic pride, strengthen community connections, and celebrate America's rich artistic and cultural legacy.”

For more information about America250 events and other programs, visit www.turnercenter.org or call 229-247-2787.