How to celebrate America’s 250th with your Cub Scouts

Cub Scout leaders who tuned into #CubChatLive got an early look at the new Liberty in Action patch that commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The patch encourages Scouts to explore citizenship and service through Cub Scout-geared activities that celebrate the milestone. And anyone — adults or youth — can earn the patch, which was created to mark an important historical moment while highlighting Scouts’ duty to country.

“We wanted to make an adventure that really focused on civic service and U.S. history and all the things that make America what it is,” said James Carroll, Cub Scout committee member.

How do you earn it?

Scouts must complete activities across five themed areas to land the patch:

  • Founding ideals today: Explore phrases from the Declaration of Independence, and discuss what freedom, fairness and happiness mean today.
  • Civic spirit and Scouting: Learn about moments when Scouts helped their communities or the country.
  • Creative expression: Try colonial-era games and crafts, such as candle making and butter churning.
  • Founding-era exploration: Visit a historic site, take a virtual tour or celebrate America’s birthday with a patriotic event.
  • Service: Complete a service project such as writing cards for troops or helping the community.

Celebrate!

Tamara Christensen, Cub Scout committee chair, highlighted a ready-to-go pack meeting plan built around a “250th Birthday Party for America.” The celebration includes colonial games, crafts, a service project and patriotic snacks.

Both Christensen and Carroll encouraged leaders to share photos and ideas from their events online using #America250Partner and tagging Scouting America.

The Liberty in Action patch can be earned now through February 2027, giving packs plenty of time to plan activities and celebrations.

Subscribe to our Free Newsletter

Join 10,599 people who get Aaron on Scouting in their inbox. We'll send an email every time we post a new story, and you can unsubscribe any time.

About Gina Circelli 95 Articles
Gina Circelli is the senior digital editor for Scout Life. She loves sharing news about Scouts who shake up pop culture or contribute to their communities in big ways.