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
April 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.
April Adventure Series Activities
Anytime Activities
- Walker Preserve Trail – 9500 Magnolia Avenue
- Hint: Look for a horse and buggy mural.
- Santee City Hall – 10601 Magnolia Avenue
- Hint: Find where paper meeting agendas are posted.
- UBuildit – 10731 Woodside Avenue, Suite A
- Hint: Check near the main check-in area.
Date-Specific Activities
- Santee City Council Meeting (April 22, 2026)
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: Santee City Hall, Council Chambers, 10601 Magnolia Avenue
- Hint: This is where official City meetings are held.
April Prize
The April winner will be announced on May 1, 2026. The prize is a $50 gift card to The Stand restaurant in Santee .
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.
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
VECA Military/Veteran Mixer (East County Salutes)
Date: May 28, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30PM
Location: Sedano Chevrolet
The City of Santee is teaming up with VECA (Veterans East County Alliance - San Diego) to honor the military community and recognize the strength of military spouses. RSVP link will be coming soon!
Date: May 29, 2026
Time: 7:00 AM - 2:00PM
Location: Carlton Oaks Golf Course
The City of Santee is teaming up with VECA (Veterans East County Alliance - San Diego) to honor the military community and recognize the strength of military spouses. RSVP link will be coming soon!
Date: June 11, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Town Center Community Park East
Join us as we kick of our America 250 celebration at the first Summer Concert. The Pistole Blonde band will be rocking the house. We will have free patriotic desserts, thank you letters for our military and veterans and a special surprise at the end of the night. Full Summer Concert Line Up.
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
The City of Santee will be coordinating a community mosaic mural that will be displayed in Mast Park. More details 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, is producing 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.
Additional details on how to obtain a commemorative coin will be announced soon. Check back for updates on how to participate in this historic milestone.
Hometown Heroes Banner Program
The City of Santee’s Hometown Heroes Banner Program honors individuals connected to the Santee community who have served, are currently serving, or have given their lives in the United States Armed Forces.
Eligible honorees include:
- Santee residents, past or present
- Family members of Santee residents
- Santee business owners or operators
- Adopted Marines from the City of Santee’s adopted Marine units
Learn more about the Hometown Heroes Banner Program