America 250 in Santee
Honor the Past. Celebrate the Future.
In 2026, the City of Santee will join communities across the nation in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. This once-in-a-generation milestone honors our nation’s history, service, resilience, and shared values.
Santee's Stars, Stripes and Sights Adventure Series
June Activities
Each month, families can explore Santee by finding and scanning hidden QR codes at locations and events across the City. Each check-in earns an entry into that month’s opportunity drawing.
Complete more activities to earn additional entries for a chance to win America250-themed prizes. New activities and winners are announced monthly throughout the year.
July Adventure Series Activities
Anytime Activities
- Sky Ranch Park - 5850 Cala Lily St.
- Hint: Where do you find information about the park?
- Town Center Community Park West - 550 Park Center Dr.
- Hint: Where can you watch a game of baseball or softball?
- Weston Trail - 9604 Medina Dr.
- Hint: You spot the Hometown Heroes Banner Program from here.
- City Hall - 10601 Magnolia Ave.
- Hint: Where do you register for recreation activities?
Date-Specific Activities
July Prizes
The July winner will be announced on August 3, 2026.
As you explore the city, watch for Santee Sammy. When you find him, scan the QR code to check in for that activity. Additional surprise check-in opportunities may appear throughout the community.
Your email will only be used for communication if you choose to opt in to receive event-related updates.
Santee Patriotic Porch & Storefront Contest (Residents & Businesses)
Winners Will Be Announced on July 1!
Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with Santee's Most Patriotic Display!
In honor of America's 250th Anniversary, the City of Santee and Santee Chamber of Commerce invite residents and local businesses to showcase their patriotic spirit by participating in the Santee Patriotic Porch & Storefront Contest.
Whether you're decorating your porch, front yard, balcony, business storefront, or outdoor space, we want to see your red, white, and blue creativity on display. From classic Americana and historic tributes to dazzling lights and patriotic flair, help make Santee shine as we celebrate this historic milestone.
Winners
Residential Category
- Laura M.
- Terri D.
- Michael R.
Mobile Home Category
- Suze B.
- Ellie S.
- Chris Z.
Business Category
- Lloyd's Collision
- Santee Lakes
- Wise Owl Fit
Judging Criteria
Entries will be reviewed by Santee's Arts & Culture Workgroup and evaluated based on:
Creativity and Originality
Patriotic Theme
Overall Presentation and Visual Impact
Prizes
Residential Champion
$50 gift card to The Stand and One (1) complimentary reserved canopy space at Santee Salutes on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Town Center Community Park East
Mobile Home Champion
Local restaurant gift cards
Business Champion
Prize generously provided by the Santee Chamber of Commerce
Contest Guidelines
The City of Santee and Santee Chamber of Commerce reserve the right to reject entries containing profane, political, offensive, or obscene content. By entering the contest, participants grant the City of Santee permission to use submitted photos for promotional and marketing purposes. All decorations should be family-friendly, respectful, and in good taste.
Local Santee America 250 Activities
Explore a year-long lineup of activities taking place throughout Santee. This list is not comprehensive, and the City does not formally support or endorse the events or activities listed.
Featured Events & Activities
Date: July 4, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: Town Center Community Park East
Annual Fourth of July celebration featuring expanded America 250 activities. Free red, white and blue dessert, America 250 light up marquee (great for photos), red, white and blue light up foam sticks, additional Fireworks and more!
Date: August 6, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Town Center Community Park East
Join us as we partner up with the San Diego County's Sheriff's Office to co-host National Night Out along side our Summer Concert. The Sea Monks will be hitting the stage with Rockabilly hits. Full Summer Concert Line Up.
Santee Lakes Events
Hosted by Santee Lakes and Santee Lakes Foundation
Dates: Presidents’ Day Weekend through July 4, 2026
The “50 Flags of Freedom” and America 250 anniversary flags will be displayed throughout Santee Lakes. This patriotic display is sponsored by the Santee Lakes Foundation.
America 250 Community Mosaic Mural
Looking for a unique community activity? Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to help create a lasting piece of Santee history!
Join us as we paint a community mosaic that will be permanently installed at Mast Park, commemorating Santee's America 250 celebrations for generations to come. Every brushstroke becomes part of a community artwork that honors our nation's past and celebrates our future.
No experience needed - just bring your creativity and patriotic spirit!
Community Mosaic Painting Event
July 12 | August 2
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Santee City Hall | Building 7
10601 Magnolia Ave.
Santee, CA 92071
Be part of history. Leave your mark on a community masterpiece that will be enjoyed for years to come!
Santee Salutes - America 250 Flags
How To Get One For Yourself!
Have you seen the Santee Salutes – America 250 flag displayed around town? If you are interested in ordering one, the City has coordinated with the vendor to make flags available for purchase.
How to Order
- Visit the Anley Flags custom flag ordering page .
- Select your preferred flag size and customization options.
- Add the item to your cart. Do not upload any artwork.
- Proceed to checkout and select your shipping method.
- Enter your shipping and payment information.
- In the order notes, include the following message:
Please use the artwork from order #201524. - Submit your order.
- Pricing varies depending on the size selected. The starting price for a 3 by 5 foot flag is $25.95.
Disclaimer: The City of Santee does not receive compensation from this vendor. All proceeds are paid directly to Anley Flags. The City does not endorse products available on the vendor’s website.
Challenge Coins
Get A Limited Edition Collectible to Celebrate America's 250th!
The Santee Community Foundation , a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has produced 250 limited-edition challenge coins in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Each coin is engraved with a unique year from 1776 through 2026, making every piece a one-of-a-kind collectible that represents a moment in United States history.
Purchase A Coin
Special Thanks
District 2 Supervisor Joel Anderson
The City of Santee would like to extend a special thank you to Supervisor Joel Anderson for supporting our America 250 festivities, along with arts and culture initiatives, through the Neighborhood Reinvestment Program. This support is helping bring community celebrations and patriotic programming to life throughout Santee.