Creative Competitions in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary

To mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Embassy in Hungary is launching national creative competitions, all inspired by the theme of Freedom250.

Freedom250 – Stories That Shaped the World

The Freedom250 Short Story Competition invites Hungarian high school and university students to celebrate the people, ideas, and creative forces that have shaped the United States- and, in turn, influenced the modern world.

Participants are encouraged to submit original short stories in English (up to 2,500 words) inspired by an American historical figure, scientist, artist, cultural movement, place, or idea that has had a long-lasting positive impact on humanity. This competition celebrates the power of storytelling and the global influence of American innovation, creativity, and freedom.

Freedom250 Art & Design Challenge

The Freedom250 Art & Design Challenge invites Hungarian high school and university students to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary through visual expression.

Participants are asked to create original posters or digital graphics that reflect key themes of American history, democracy, culture, innovation, and diversity- and how these ideas connect to the world today.

Submission Deadline: March 15, 2026

You can find all the details here, including format requirements, evaluation criteria, and recognition:

Freedom 250 - U.S. Embassy in Hungary