About this guide
The National History Day® (NHD) National Contest is the final stage of a series of contests at local and state/affiliate levels. Students begin their journey by presenting their projects in classrooms, schools, and districts around the world. Top entries are invited to the state/affiliate level contests. The top two entries in every category at the state/affiliate level are then invited to the National Contest.
The 2026 National Contest will be held at the University of Maryland, College Park, from June 14-18, 2026.