Hayward 150: Celebrating 150 Years of Community, Growth and Opportunity

On March 11, 2026, the City of Hayward will mark 150 years since its incorporation, honoring a history shaped by community, diversity and progress.
Flyer with the text: Celebrating Hayward's 150th Anniversary

From Haywards to Hayward

The town was incorporated on March 11, 1876, under the name “Haywards,” after a landmark hotel that served as a hub for early travelers. The “s” was dropped several years later.

With its mild climate, fertile soil and central location in the Bay Area, Hayward experienced decades of growth. Following World War II, housing developments replaced farms and ranches. Between 1950 and 1960, the population grew fivefold, from 14,000 to 72,000, and has continued to increase.

The Heart of the Bay

Today, Hayward is home to one of the most diverse populations in California and is the sixth-largest city in the Bay Area. A regional center for commerce, manufacturing and trade, Hayward is known as the “Heart of the Bay.” Its location continues to attract companies in advanced industries and makes it one of the Bay Area’s most desirable business locations.

As the city looks to the future, Hayward continues to plan for growth while balancing the needs of its diverse residents, a growing business community and the preservation of open space.

Hayward 150 Birthday Celebration

To commemorate the milestone, the City of Hayward, in partnership with local agencies and organizations, will host the Hayward 150 Birthday Celebration at City Hall Plaza.

Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Time: 4:30 to 7 p.m.
Location: City Hall Plaza, 777 B Street
 

The event will take place exactly 150 years after Hayward was incorporated as a municipality by the State of California and will serve as the official kickoff of sesquicentennial activities supported by the city throughout calendar year 2026.

Participating agencies and organizations include the Hayward Area Recreation and Parks District, Hayward Unified School District and the Hayward Area Historical Society.

What to Expect

The celebration will include:

  • Commemorative cupcakes and beverage refreshment stands
  • Live performances, including music and spoken word
  • A stage program and group singing of “Happy Birthday”
  • Activities for children
  • Additional activities as planning continues

Get Involved

For more information, to submit questions, offer suggestions or request to participate, contact Hayward Community Partnerships Manager Zach Ebadi at Zach.Ebadi@hayward-ca.gov. The community is invited to join the City of Hayward in celebrating 150 years of history while looking ahead to the future.