A Getaway Guide for America's 250th Anniversary

Pennsylvania Farm Show

The 110th Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg, kicks off a monumental year for the Commonwealth as part of statewide America250PA celebrations. Anchored by the this year's theme Growing a Nation, the event highlights Pennsylvania’s agricultural legacy and its role in shaping the country’s past, present, and future through immersive exhibits, competitions, and heritage-driven experiences.

New for 2026, visitors can sip the America250PA red, white, and blue milkshake flight, explore expanded hands-on agriculture exhibits, and discover stories of the farmers and innovators helping grow the nation for the next 250 years. Our What's New at the PA Farm Show blog post gives you a glimpse into what to expect at this year's event. 

When: January 10-17, 2026
Where: Harrisburg

Philly is Unrivaled

Philadelphia is staking its claim as the ultimate stage for women’s hoops with Unrivaled, the pro 3-on-3 league founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Four elite clubs take over Xfinity Mobile Arena for fast, full-court action featuring three 7-minute quarters and a thrilling winning-score fourth quarter that keeps every second buzzing.

It’s a major moment for women’s sports in Pennsylvania, putting top talent on display and giving fans a front-row seat to the next level of professional basketball. Tickets are on sale now on Ticketmaster's website, so grab yours and see why Philly is truly unrivaled.

When: January 30, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

PHS Flower Show

Philadelphia is set to bloom at the 2026 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, where this year’s theme, Rooted: Origins of American Gardening, digs into the stories, traditions, and cultures that have shaped gardens across generations. Celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, the show blends history, artistry, and horticultural innovation in immersive gardens, thousands of houseplant entries, and hands-on botanical experiences.

From crafting workshops to speaker sessions, visitors can put down roots in a vibrant celebration of gardening legacy and creativity. Tickets are on sale now on the PHS website, making this a must-see horticultural event in the heart of Philly.

When: February 28 - March 8, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

NCAA Division | Men's Basketball Championship

Witness the excitement of college basketball as the NCAA and Saint Joseph’s University come together to host electrifying first and second round playoff games at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Join fans from across the nation as they gather to cheer on their favorite teams and experience the thrill of March Madness firsthand.

When: March 20 and 22, 2026    
Where: Philadelphia

NFL Draft

Pittsburgh takes center stage in 2026 as the NFL Draft arrives in the heart of Steelers Country. Fans can watch future NFL stars step into the spotlight while the city hosts a multi-day celebration filled with live entertainment and interactive fan experiences, all set against Pittsburgh’s iconic skyline and riverfront.

When: April 23-25, 2026    
Where: Pittsburgh

PGA Championship

Swing into action at Aronimink Golf Club in Delaware County as it hosts the prestigious Men’s Pro Golf Championship. Watch as top golfers compete for glory and the Wanamaker Trophy on one of Pennsylvania’s most renowned courses, which in 2020 gained the distinction of being the first club in the nation to host all three of the PGA’s rotating major championships.

When: May 11-17, 2026    
Where: Newtown Square

Soccer’s FIFA World Cup

Join in the global celebration of soccer—or fútbol—as the City of Brotherly Love welcomes international players with open arms as one of the 2026 FIFA World Cup host cities. Lincoln Financial Field will host six thrilling matches, including a special game on July 4th, America’s 250th birthday. Experience the passion and camaraderie of the world’s most popular sport as teams from around the globe vie for victory on American soil.

When: June 14-July 4, 2026    
Where: Philadelphia

WAWA Welcome America & July 4th Celebrations at Independence Hall

It’s a grand party on the parkway, Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway that is, as Wawa Welcome America festival puts on its biggest and best July 4^th celebration ever in 2026. Filled with breathtaking fireworks above the Philadelphia Art Museum, star-studded concerts, and lots of fun family friendly and cultural events, it’s so big a single day of celebration is nowhere near enough, with the festival featuring two full weeks of events and activities! Best yet, many are free! Beyond the Wawa Welcome America events, there will also be Red, White, and Blue To-Do events from July 2-4, at participating museums and local businesses across Old City featuring concerts, games, and even extended visitation hours at area historic attractions.

When: June 19 -July 4, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

Independence Day Commemoration

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the nation's founding as you participate in the ceremonial events and festivities commemorating Independence Day in Philadelphia. It was in here in the Assembly Room of the then Pennsylvania State House, now Independence Hall, where after months of debate and deliberation the major leaders of the American Revolution announced the colonies’ formal Declaration of Independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776 (with the U.S. Constitution being subsequently drawn up and adopted here in 1787). As part of the commemoration, a time capsule will be buried to be unearthed on America’s 500^th anniversary on July 4, 2276.

When: July 4, 2026    
Where: Philadelphia

MLB All-Star Game and Week

Catch the stars of Major League Baseball in action at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia during the much-anticipated 2026 All-Star Game on July 14. Experience the thrill of America’s favorite pastime as baseball’s finest athletes showcase their skills and compete for supremacy on the diamond. Leading up to the game, enjoy a week full of activations and action by visiting the All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, or catching the All-Star Sunday with the Futures Game on Sunday, July 12 and Workout Day and Home Run Derby on Monday, July 13.

When: July 11-14, 2026 
Where: Philadelphia

Pennsylvania Day

Pennsylvania is honored each year on July 20, National Pennsylvania Day, for its many contributions to the nation, and especially in recognition of its importance as the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and joining the union. From historical reenactments to cultural festivals, National Pennsylvania Day offers a wide variety of experiences that highlight the state’s rich heritage and enduring contributions to the American story.

It is also a day for volunteerism where you can sign up to help at local food banks and other organizations each year leading up to 2026 in order to give back to local communities across the Commonwealth. In 2026, participate in community projects supporting Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful on July 18^th and assisting food banks with Feeding Pennsylvania on July 20^th. 

When: July 20, 2026  
Where: Multiple locations

50th Anniversary of the African American Museum

Explore the vibrant tapestry of African American history and culture at the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s (AAMP) thought-provoking exhibitions and special anniversary events. Opened in 1976 as part of the nation's Bicentennial celebrations, the museum was the first institution funded and built by a major municipality to preserve, interpret, and exhibit the heritage of African Americans. In 2022, the museum announced its move to Benjamin Franklin Parkway and is planning to move into its new home by 2026.

The milestone 50th anniversary celebration officially kicked off with the debut of “Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design,” a dynamic new exhibition featuring 80 original costumes from films that helped shape global culture, including Selma, Sinners, and Coming 2 America. Created by Academy Award–winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter — renowned for her visionary work on Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever — the exhibition spotlights her groundbreaking influence on film, fashion, and storytelling.

When: Now- September 2026
Where: Philadelphia

50th Anniversary of Mummers Museum

Delve into the whimsical world of Mummery and celebrate half a century of revelry and folk customs at the Mummers Museum in Philadelphia. Opened in 1976 as part of the city’s Bicentennial celebrations, the museum displays costumes, oral histories, video and audio archives, and even an exhibit to teach anyone how to “strut” like a Mummer. Experience the pageantry and spectacle of the Mummers Parade firsthand and learn about the history and heritage of this unique Philadelphia tradition. Fun Fact: The Philadelphia Mummers Parade is the oldest continuous folk parade in the U.S.

When: February 7, 2026
Where: Philadelphia

Highmark Mann 50th Anniversary Concert

In 2026, Highmark Mann Center for the Performing Arts is celebrating its 50th anniversary alongside America’s semi-quincentennial with a year of signature performances and community art. Highlights include the world-premiere oratorio A Hundred Years On (June 17, 2026), a golden celebration of 50 Years of Music in the Park (July 2026), and BalletX’s The Four Seasons Reimagined (June 4 and 5, 2026), featuring bold new choreography and live composition by Dan Deacon. A new partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia will also bring a vibrant, community-led mural to the campus. These events honor history, art, and community while connecting past, present, and future.

When: Summer 2026
Where: Philadelphia

Anniversary of The Battle of Gettysburg & A Gettysburg Fourth

Adams County will be holding a host of activities throughout 2026 in recognition and celebration of the many contributions its communities and residents have made to the nation’s history and heritage. From July 3-5, transport yourself back in time as visitors and reenactors gather to remember the Battle of Gettysburg. From musical performances to guided historical tours, you’ll honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the largest battle on U.S. soil. On Independence Day itself, celebrate big during the “A Gettysburg Fourth!” event to commemorate America’s 250^th anniversary with food trucks, music, BINGO, and raffles.. In the evening, the whole family will enjoy the sounds of the Patriotic Pops concert and the awe-inspiring spectacle of fireworks illuminating the historic Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg. Celebrate freedom and unity against the backdrop of this hallowed ground and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for our liberty during one of the most pivotal moments in American history.

When: July 3-5, 2026    
Where: Gettysburg

100th Anniversary of Lake Wallenpaupack

Lake Wallenpaupack is celebrating a century’s worth of outdoor adventure in 2026 and planning big festivities! Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, this storied destination is well known for its scenic beauty and nearly countless opportunities for fun outdoor recreation activities. Originally built in 1926 by the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company as a reservoir for a hydroelectric power plant, Lake Wallenpaupack has been transformed into a veritable playground with public beaches, boat launches, campgrounds, parks, and hiking trails attracting hikers, boaters, anglers, nature lovers, and those who simply want to relax by the water. Visit one of PA’s largest lakes in 2026 for extra special events and outdoor activities surrounded by the natural splendor of this beloved Pennsylvania destination.

When: July 31, 2026 
Where: Hawley

25th Anniversary of 9/11 at the Flight 93 Memorial

Honor the extraordinary courage of the 40 passengers and crew members of Flight 93 whose actions thwarted the hijackers' attempt to target Washington, D.C. on September 11, 2001 at the Flight 93 National Memorial. Explore the memorial grounds, a Visitors Center with interactive exhibits detailing the story of Flight 93, the Memorial Plaza, Wall of Names, and 93-foot-tall Tower of Voices where the now-silenced voices of the 40 passengers and crew members are remembered with the tower’s forty wind chimes. Any day is a perfect day to solemnly recognize the ultimate sacrifice of these heroic Americans, with a special commemoration held on September 11^th.

When: September 11, 2026 
Where: Stoystown

50th Anniversary of ROCKY

Visit Philadelphia, the renowned City of Brotherly Love, to celebrate the iconic, inspirational, and Academy Award-winning movie, “Rocky.” There will be a host of special events and festivities culminating with “Rocky Day” on December 3^rd. Retrace the steps of the legendary boxer with themed tours, screenings, and interactive experiences that pay homage to this timeless Philadelphia story. Be sure to climb the famed steps at the Philadelphia Art Museum and afterward take a selfie by the Rocky Statue to impress your friends and family.

When: December 3, 2026 
Where: Philadelphia

250th Anniversary of Washington’s Crossing

On December 25, 1776, General George Washington led his soldiers across the Delaware River in freezing and icy conditions during the dark of night to launch a surprise attack against Hessian soldiers employed by the British. Experience the sights and sounds of this legendary event as living history interpreters bring the past to life with a live reenactment of Washington’s famous crossing. In recognition of the event’s 250^th anniversary, each year from 2016 to 2026 Washington Crossing Historic Park is issuing a commemorative Challenge Coin featuring an important figure of the crossing on each. History buffs will want to collect them all!

When: December 2026 
Where: Washington Crossing

50th Anniversary of the Clothespin and LOVE Statue

Admire two iconic sculptures that have graced Center City Philadelphia for five decades, both lasting legacies of the Bicentennial celebrations. The Clothespin, designed by artist Claes Oldenburg, continues to captivate and inspire visitors with its striking design and symbolic significance. Just a few blocks away sits arguably one of the city’s best-known landmarks: the LOVE statue. Back in its original location in John F. Kennedy Plaza — better known as LOVE Park — no trip to Philly is complete without snapping a photo in front of the famous Robert Indiana sculpture.

When: Dates TBD 
Where: Philadelphia

Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection exhibition at The State Museum of Pennsylvania

Step into history where it all began at The State Museum of Pennsylvania with Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection. Over 140 artifacts—from a Continental Army flag to full-scale Liberty Bell replicas—celebrate Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in the American Revolution and set the stage for the nation’s 250th anniversary. Don’t miss the companion exhibit Illuminating Independence, featuring 35 hand-drawn Declaration of Independence illuminations. As part of America250, this is your front-row seat to the past, showing how Pennsylvania helped shape the story of America.

When: Now - August 2, 2026
Where: Harrisburg

Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy Opening

New to Lancaster in 2026, the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy will bring history to life with a bold, modern twist. Housed in Stevens’ former law office and home, the Center will explore the fight for freedom and equality through immersive exhibits, media experiences, and educational programs. As part of America250, it’s a must-see destination to reflect on the legacies of Stevens, Smith, and the abolitionists who helped shape our nation.

When: Dates TBD 
Where: Lancaster

First Bank of the United States Museum

The house that Alexander Hamilton built is getting a glow-up just in time for America250. The First Bank of the United States in Philadelphia, a Federal-style icon that shaped 200 years of American banking, will reopen as a museum of the nation’s economy after a $50 million renovation. Located across from the Museum of the American Revolution, it’s your chance to step inside a piece of history that’s been off-limits for half a century—and see where Hamilton made the numbers add up.

When: Dates TBD 
Where: Philadelphia

Bells Across Pennsylvania

Celebrate America250 while exploring Pennsylvania like never before with Bells Across PA! Each of the state’s 67 counties will showcase a one-of-a-kind Liberty Bell, decorated with local landmarks, stories, and culture, making it the perfect excuse to hit the road, snap photos, and discover hidden gems across the Keystone State. From Greensburg to every corner of Pennsylvania, these vibrant bells turn sightseeing into a statewide adventure. Learn more about the program on America250PA's website. 

When: Now - December 31, 2026
Where: Statewide

Lebanon County Wooden Nickel History Trail

Step into history and start collecting along the Lebanon County Wooden Nickel History Trail, a playful new way to celebrate America250 in the heart of the Lebanon Valley. Visitors can explore a dozen local history sites, museums, and businesses while picking up free commemorative wooden nickels featuring five unique America250 designs—from an American flag to a classic pretzel.

When: Now - May 24, 2026
Where: Lebanon

Lehigh County Treasure Trail

Explore Lehigh County on the Treasure Trail, created as part of America250’s 2026 celebrations. Step back in time at Revolutionary-era sites like the George Taylor House, Trout Hall, and Shelter House, discover industrial landmarks like Lockridge Furnace, and explore culture at the Museum of Indian Culture or America On Wheels. Outdoor adventures await at the Ironton Rail Trail, Trexler Nature Preserve, and Ontelaunee Park, with modern stops like Coca-Cola Park and the Allentown Fairgrounds rounding out this road-trip adventure through history, innovation, and community.

When: Throughout 2026
Where: Various locations in Lehigh County

52 Weeks of Firsts

Prepare to experience history like never before in Philadelphia in 2026! Hosted by the Philadelphia Historic District, "52 Weeks of Firsts" will celebrate 250 years of groundbreaking achievements with a year-long festival. Discover the city's incredible innovations, from the invention of bifocals to the founding of Mother’s Day. Visit iconic sites like the Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, the oldest continuously owned piece of land by African Americans and the birthplace of the AME faith. Each week, enjoy captivating events at these historic locations, featuring engaging speakers, stunning sculptures, and immersive deep dives by Once Upon a Nation. Don't miss this unique celebration of Philadelphia's pioneering spirit!

When: January-December 2026    
Where: Philadelphia

Don’t miss a moment of America250 in Pennsylvania in 2026—check out our events calendar for the latest celebrations and happenings!