Press Release: National Civics Bee® in Loudoun returns as America celebrates 250 Years of Independence
All Loudoun middle school students are invited to demonstrate their civics knowledge and compete for cash prizes, County, State, and National titles
Loudoun County, VA—The Loudoun Chamber is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 National Civics Bee® in Loudoun, part of a national initiative designed to inspire young Americans to demonstrate their civic knowledge and strengthen their communities.
This exciting competition arrives at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, the National Civics Bee® offers students an opportunity to honor America’s founding ideals by learning, practicing, and demonstrating the principles of democracy.
“The National Civics Bee in Loudoun offers our middle school students the chance to showcase their civics knowledge at a time when our nation will celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence,” said Loudoun Chamber President Tony Howard. “This competition not only inspires civic pride, but connects to the America 250 celebration, ensuring that the next generation carries forward the promise of democracy.”
Competition Format & Prizes
Students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades from public, private, and homeschools are invited to participate. The first round begins with an essay competition, reviewed by a blue-ribbon panel of community leaders from Loudoun. The top 20 students will advance to an in-person competition in the Spring of 2026.
The top three finalists will receive cash prizes, while the first-place winner moves on to the Virginia State Civics Bee finals, hosted by Colonial Williamsburg. The Virginia Civics Bee champion will compete at the National Civics Bee in Washington, D.C., in Fall 2026, where the top prize is a $100,000 education savings account.
A National Movement Aligned with America 250
Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber Foundation, the National Civics Bee® is supported by the Morven Park Center for Civic Impact and the Loudoun School-Business Partnership.
“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we have a powerful opportunity through the National Civics Bee to inspire schools to prioritize civics education and equip young people with a deeper understanding of how our government and democracy work,” said Hilary Crow, Vice President of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation.
About the National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee is an annual, nonpartisan competition designed to enhance civics education and awareness among middle school students, while elevating civics as a national priority. For more information about the National Civics Bee® in Loudoun, visit www.loudounchamber.org/civics-bee/.
###