Emily Baker, collections manager at the Onslow County Museum, described the museum's America 250 exhibit, a community-engagement project scheduled to open Feb. 23 with a public reception on Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guest curators and partner organizations will participate in a yearlong calendar of events across the county.

Baker said the exhibit intentionally departs from muted bicentennial styling in favor of colorful, modern design intended to engage children and families while providing historical context through contributions from local historians and guest curators. The museum will host partner events throughout 2026, keep a dedicated page on the museum website with calendar links, and hold a reception featuring the guest curators on Feb. 28.

The museum's 50th anniversary plans are paired with America 250 commemorations and aim to mix historic objects with contemporary interpretation to invite intergenerational conversation.