On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, offering an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history while inspiring the next generation of leaders, creators, and innovators. In recognition of this historic milestone and to celebrate America's rich musical and artistic legacy, The Woodlands Children's Museum has partnered with The Woodlands Symphony Orchestra (WSO) to present an America 250 concert series.

The woodwinds from The Woodlands Symphony smile for the camera after performing at The Woodlands Children's Museum. Five musicians stand on the stage: a woman holding a flute, a woman holding a clarinet, then three men holding a bassoon, French horn, and clarinet.

WSO Woodwind Quintet | Photos courtesy of The Woodlands Children's Museum

CONCERT SERIES HIGHLIGHTS

Beginning in January, the series will feature monthly family-friendly concerts showcasing American composers and patriotic themes. Designed especially for young audiences, these engaging performances invite children and families to experience America’s story through the power of live orchestral music, culminating in a special semi-quincentennial celebration in July.

“The sounds of the symphony help children hear the story of our country in a way that is bold, joyful, and exciting,” said Angela Colton, Executive Director of The Woodlands Children’s Museum. “This series makes the arts accessible to all ages and transforms a patriotic celebration into an unforgettable adventure for young ears.”

CONCERT SERIES SCHEDULE

Concerts will take place at 11:00 a.m. on the following dates.

  • January 24: WSO String Quartet, Give My Regards to Broadway
  • February 21: WSO Brass Quintet, Go for the Gold: An Olympic Tribute
  • March 21: WSO Woodwind Quintet, American Classical Composers
  • April 25: WSO Percussion Ensemble, Marching to the Beat
  • May 16: WSO Brass Quintet, American Film Composers
  • June 6: WSO Experimental Ensemble, Constellation: A NASA Tribute

The series concludes on Friday, July 3rd with a special America 250 celebration featuring three performances at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. The day will include brass, woodwind, and percussion ensembles, along with a guest vocalist.

A drummer from The Woodlands Symphony kneels for a child to slap his instrument at The Woodlands Children's Museum. The man is wearing a blue shirt with the drum attached to a shoulder harness. The child is blond, wearing an orange T-shirt, dark shorts, and sneakers.

WSO Percussion Ensemble

A brass trio from The Woodlands Symphony and two young children smile for the camera at The Woodlands Children's Museum. The trio is made up of three men in dark attire and Renaissance caps, each holding either a French Horn, tuba, or trombone. One of the children is a boy, the other a girl, both around 2-4 years old.

WSO Brass Ensemble

ART UNVEILING

In addition to the performances, the museum will unveil a collaborative art installation created by children throughout the year. Young artists will design individual flags that will be assembled into an American flag mosaic, symbolizing unity, creativity, and shared history.

“The America 250 celebration is about honoring our past while inspiring our future, and there’s no better place to do that than The Woodlands Children’s Museum,” stated Darryl Bayer, Artistic Director for the Woodlands Symphony Orchestra. “We’re thrilled to collaborate in a setting where children can experience the joy of live orchestral music in an engaging, welcoming environment.”

TICKETS & MORE

Tickets can be purchased at the museum with valid ID. Veterans and Active-Duty Military and their immediate family members (up to 4) can receive a discounted rate of $5 per person on America 250 concert days. This concert series is supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, helping ensure that Americans of all ages can experience the arts, celebrate the nation’s artistic heritage, and benefit from arts education at every stage of life.

For more information, please visit The Woodlands Children's Museum website.