Community members will gather to start planning Lansford’s 150th anniversary celebration in 2026, which is also the country’s semiquincentennial, or 250th anniversary.

A kickoff meeting is planned for 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Lansford American Legion Post 123 on West Ridge Street.

Discussions will include forming a committee, planning events, fundraising, creating a logo, ideas for memorabilia, a time capsule and contacting other organizations to participate.

The last big celebration was in 2001 for the borough’s 125th anniversary and concluded with a large parade through town.

In 1976, the nation’s bicentennial year, the Lansford celebration included a parade, fireworks, an anniversary book, carnival, Brothers of the Bush, and more.

Memorabilia from the previous celebrations, including news articles, photos, shirts and other ephemera will be on display, and people are encouraged to bring any memorabilia from 1976 or 2001 with them.

“It was an honor to be chairman of the 125th anniversary committee back in 2001,” Christopher Ondrus, president of Lansford Alive, said.

“My hope now is to get individuals, including our youth, involved to prepare for the upcoming 150th anniversary of the borough and 250th anniversary of our country,” he said.

Ondrus said he has been reaching out to various community groups and organizations, such as the fire company, borough, historical society and others.

He also would like to see the schools involved, Ondrus said.

All those interested are welcome to attend and are encouraged to bring a neighbor and ideas, get involved and help make the celebration a success, he said.