Texas America250

America 250: Faith, Family, Freedom Parade
2026-07-04 10:00 (America/Chicago) | Downtown Chappell Hill, 5070 Main Street, Chappell Hill, TX, 77426, United States
Biggest Small Town Parade celebrating America 250: Faith, Family and Freedom. Parade complete with colorful entries, marching groups, farm equipment, live music after the parade.

Red, White, and Blue Weekend: Dyeing with Indigo
2026-07-04 10:00 - 15:00 | San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site, 220 2nd St., San Felipe, TX, 77473, United States
Join us this 4th of July Weekend for an extraordinary time discovering natural dyes of 200 years ago!
We know these colors well: Red, White, and Blue. They are a part of our national American flag as well as the Texas flag. But how would those colors be achieved when these flags were first made?
Come out on Saturday, July 4th to learn all about indigo: the long-standard dye used to achieve deep blues for millennia! Learn where indigo comes from and how it is processed in order to achieve this popular color.
This program will run from 10am to 3pm, with dyed materials staying on display until 4pm. We hope to see you there!

Stars, Stripes and Crafts For the Whole Family
2026-07-04 11:00 - 14:00 | Starr Family Home, 407 West Travis St, Marshall, TX, 75670, United States
Get crafty with us! The supplies for several crafts will be available to have a fun filled afternoon!

San Jacinto Family Day: Declaration Documents - Quill and Ink
2026-07-04 11:00 - 15:00 | San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, 3523 Independence Parkway South, La Porte, TX, 77571, United States
In their own pursuits of freedom, representatives of the United States, Mexico, and Texas each penned their grievances and intentions to leave their countries of origin in declarations of independence. In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, educators will guide visitors through the similarities and differences in the declarations of independence of the United States (1776), Mexico (1821), and Texas (1836).
In doing so, educators will also invite visitors to sample writing with quill and ink, the same tools used to write the declarations of independence explored in this program.
When: Saturday, July 4; drop in between 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: San Jacinto Museum
Age Range: Kids 5+; younger children are welcome, but will need to have an adult to help.

250th Independence Day Picnic
2026-07-04 11:00 - 17:00 | White Rock Baptist Church, 5061 Co Rd 1220, Anna, TX, 75409, United States
Our small congregation is hosting a day of food and fun for all ages. We’d love for your family to join ours for a 250th Independence Day Picnic!

Jefferson Salutes America
2026-07-04 11:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Jefferson, 305 E. Austin St, Jefferson, TX, 75657, United States
Enjoy an old-fashioned celebration of the country’s birthday. Activities start at Ostott Park with a kids parade, homemade ice cream contest, pie auction, games, live music, and food. At night is the Grand Finale Fireworks Show, starting over the Big Cypress Bayou by the historical LED lighted bridge.

Fourth of July Veterans & First Responders Cookout
2026-07-04 11:30 - 17:00 | Autumn Wind Assisted Living Center Courtyard, 135 Autumn Wind Court, Mineola, TX, 75773, United States
Veterans and First Responder Cookout at our local assisted living center to honor those who have served to help fight for our freedom and those who enforce our laws and keep our people safe.

Star-Spangled Spectacular
2026-07-04 13:00 - 17:00 | Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
Celebrate Independence Day in style at the Dallas Winds’ annual Star‑Spangled Spectacular, happening Saturday, July 4 at 1 pm at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. Under the masterful baton of Grammy‑nominated conductor Jerry Junkin, this red‑white‑and‑blue extravaganza honors “mom, apple pie & the American way” with patriotic flair and musical brilliance.
Beyond the music, the event is a full sensory celebration: indulge in hot dogs and ice cream, marvel at indoor fireworks, and enjoy a festive atmosphere—all in the comfort of air‑conditioned elegance. For families, veterans, and music lovers alike, this concert is a beloved Dallas tradition that combines stirring melodies, patriotic tribute, and joyful celebration. Don’t miss this unforgettable musical salute to freedom and community. May sell out—be sure to reserve your seats early!

Old Fashioned 4th of July Picnic
2026-07-04 14:00 - 16:00 | Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site, 609 S. Lamar, Denison, TX, 75020, United States
Bring your picnic baskets and lawn chairs to the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, and to take part in traditional 4th of July Picnic activities. Then make your way over to Munson Stadium for the City of Denison Fireworks extravaganza.
Participants can vie for blue ribbons in the 3-legged race and the Hula-hoop competition.
Young and old alike can try your hands at games such as the Ring Toss, Baseball throw, Hoop roll, Hula hoop, Lawn Fishing, Horseshoes, Croquet, and Ice cream making. If you like, you can also learn how to complete old-fashioned chores such as pumping water, scrubbing laundry, and beating rugs.
Enjoy our patriotic crafts, games, and music, all in the shadow of the birthplace of our 34th President, Dwight David Eisenhower.

Honor, Flight & Freedom Celebrating America250
2026-07-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Meredith Memorial Football Stadium, 1040 W. Loop 564, Mineola, TX, 75773, United States
Winners of the Kiwanis Club’s Best Decorated Residence and Main Street’s Stars, Stripes & Storefronts contests will be named. Winning Veterans Day essay will be read, there will be patriotic music, a Dance Dimensions group will perform, a skydiver will jump bearing the American flag and the event will culminate at 2:50 p.m. with America Waves as those present wave their handheld flags given to them. We plan to have a drone fly over and video this event.

Stars, Stripes and Spirit
2026-07-04 15:00 - 17:00 | Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St, Kerrville, TX, 78028, United States
Stars, Stripes and Spirit: Remembrance & Resilience, presented by Symphony of the Hills. Doors open at 3 p.m. Concert begins at 4 p.m. Free to attend. No reservations. Space available. Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St., Kerrville. symphonyofthehills.org

Fayette Countywide July 4 Celebration & DAR Patriot Plaque dedication to John Sorrell
2026-07-04 16:00 - 17:00 | Fayette County Courthouse, 151 N Washington St, La Grange, 78945, United States
Join the Fayette County community for a July 4 celebration featuring the dedication of a DAR Patriot Plaque honoring John Sorrell. Patriot Sorrell lived his final days in Fayette County, passing away outside of La Grange, where his grave remains unmarked. This plaque serves as a meaningful addition to the memorial, ensuring his service and sacrifice are formally recognized alongside other honored veterans.

Texas Cook'Em: High Steaks in Edinburg
2026-07-04 16:00 - 17:00 | Ebony Hills Golf Course, 300 W Mark Pena Dr., Edinburg, TX, 78539, United States
Celebrate Independence Day in unforgettable style at Texas Cook’Em High Steaks, a spectacular annual festival presented by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Ebony Hills Golf Club on July 4, 2026, this vibrant celebration promises an exciting day filled with great food, live entertainment, and community spirit.
This year’s event is set to be the biggest and best yet, featuring top musical performances, family-friendly attractions, and one of the premier steak BBQ cook-offs in Texas, with a $12,500 payout attracting elite grill masters from across the region. Guests will enjoy an incredible festival atmosphere in a unique golf course setting while celebrating a historic milestone the 250th birthday of the
United States of America.
Join thousands of attendees for an unforgettable Fourth of July experience where great steaks, great music, and great memories come together at one of South Texas’ most anticipated annual celebrations.

4th Fest Celebration
2026-07-04 16:00 - 22:00 | Pasadena Municipal Fairgrounds, 7902 Fairmont Pkwy, Pasadena, TX, 77507, United States
Pasadena’s annual 4th Fest is a FREE large-scale community celebration held on July 4th in recognition of Independence Day and this year as part of the Texas America250 initiative, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event brings together residents and visitors of all ages for an evening of family-friendly activities, including live entertainment, a variety of food and retail vendors, a Kid’s Zone, and a Sensory Friendly Zone to ensure an inclusive experience for all. Festivities begin in the early evening with vendor areas and activities opening to the public, followed by live music and ongoing attractions, and culminate in a large-scale fireworks display around 9:15 pm.

Stars, Stripes & Island Vibes – Tiki Island America 250 Celebration
2026-07-04 17:00 | Tiki Island Pavilion, 803 Tiki Drive, Tiki Island, TX, 77554, United States
The Tiki Island Community Foundation will host a two-day community celebration honoring America’s 250th anniversary on July 3–4, 2026 in the Village of Tiki Island on the Texas Gulf Coast near Galveston.
This celebration will serve as the flagship America 250 event of the Tiki Island Community Foundation, bringing residents and visitors together to honor the nation’s founding through community engagement, historical reflection, and patriotic celebration.
Planned activities include a golf cart rally July 3rd, and July 4th will include a patriotic parade and family programming throughout the island, along with a civic ceremony recognizing America’s founding generation. The program will feature participation from historical organizations including members of the Sons of the American Revolution, ceremonial music such as traditional bagpipes, and an aircraft flyover by the Lone Star Squadron.
Educational displays and community storytelling initiatives organized by the Tiki Island Community Foundation will highlight local heritage and encourage residents of all ages to reflect on how their own family stories connect to the broader American story.
This celebration is part of the Tiki Island Community Foundation’s broader initiative to engage residents in the national Semiquincentennial and highlight how local communities contribute to the American story. The event is being organized entirely by local volunteers and community partners who are committed to ensuring that even a small coastal village plays a meaningful role in commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.

America 250 Celebration
2026-07-04 17:00 - 22:00 | San Jacinto Plaza, 114 W Mills Ave, El Paso, TX, 79901, United States
El Paso is marking America’s 250th anniversary with a full week of events that bring together culture, community, and celebration. From June 27 through July 4, you’ll find something happening across the city and on Fort Bliss, from live performances and local festivals to family-friendly experiences and community gatherings.
The week begins with a large-scale kickoff at Biggs Park on Fort Bliss and builds day by day, leading to a July 4 finale in Downtown El Paso at San Jacinto Plaza. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer stay, this is a chance to experience the city in it’s most unforgettable and patriotic fashion!
The July 4 celebration in San Jacinto Plaza will feature the following:
– 5 – 10 PM
– Free, family-friendly
– 1st Armored Division Jazz Band + local artists
– Hot-eating contest
– Pie-eating contest
– Static display
– Games
– Food and drinks
– Musical performances and DJ performances
– Concert headlining performance by Randy Rogers Band
– Projection light show finale

Celebration of Freedom, presented by Bayway Chevrolet
2026-07-04 18:00 - 22:00 | Independence Park, 3449 Pearland Parkway, Pearland, TX, 77581, United States
Celebrating 250 years with our annual community event, concert and fireworks. We will have our local VFW post joining us in presenting a traditional flag ceremony.

Public Reading of The Declaration of Independence
2026-07-04 18:30 - 19:00 | Mineola Civic Center, 1150 N. Newsom Street
Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence. Members will be dressed in attire appropriate to the period.

Star Spangled Skies
2026-07-04 21:00 - 22:30 | Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, 100 Park Rd 77, Strawn, TX, 76475, United States
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday under the stars!
Our night sky is filled with tales of impossible challenges, incredible love stories, and inspirational redemption arches.
In these myths and legends, our ancestors whispers words of wisdom across the generations from before America was born. Come listen, and maybe you’ll hear them whispering too!
Time: 9:00pm – 10:30pm
Date: Saturday, July 4
Location: Canyon View Interp Area (follow the red light)
Bring: water, a redlight flashlight, and a chair (some benches are present)
Redlights: To allow the best view of the stars, we will have our sky viewing area and restroom marked with red lights. We ask that participants utilize redlight flashlights and turn on their phone’s red filter through their accessibility settings. Please avoid using any white or blue lights during this program because this kills yours and others night vision, making it harder to see our stars.
BONUS: Download Strellarium mobile app to find the constellations on your screen!
Note: This event is weather dependent. Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram for any program updates.

Red, White, and Blue Weekend: Carding Fibers
2026-07-05 13:00 - 16:00 | San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site, 220 2nd St., San Felipe, TX, 77473, United States
Join us this 4th of July Weekend for an extraordinary time discovering natural dyes of 200 years ago!
We know these colors well: Red, White, and Blue. They are a part of our national American flag as well as the Texas flag. But how would fabric be prepared before becoming a flag?
Come out on Sunday, July 5th to learn all about how fibers are prepared before they are weaved and dyed and try carding them yourself!

Sharing the Spirit of America: The Declaration of Independence Reading
2026-07-08 16:30 - 18:00 | Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence inside the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall) in Philadelphia. Four days later, on July 8, 1776, after the Declaration was printed and distributed, the citizens of Philadelphia were summoned to the State House Yard by the bells of the city. Then, Colonel John Nixon publicly read the Declaration of Independence.
Led by America250 Hawaii, Americans in all 50 States and 16 Territories of the United States will read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’ on July 8, 2026. America spans some 9,500-miles from one extreme to the other (the Caribbean across North America to the western edge of the Pacific). Even though the United States is spread across thousands of miles and nine different time zones, all of us in America may read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’, at the ‘same’ time.
The Bullock Museum will host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, presented by members of the Andrew Carruthers Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Patrick Henry Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Guests are invited to arrive early to explore the TSLAC America’s 250 display and engage with the Bullock Museum’s Declaration of Independence Conversation Cart.

Simultaneous Reading of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-08 17:00 | Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway, Kerrville, TX, 78028, United States
The Declaration of Independence was first read in public on July 8, 1776. On July 8, 2026, in our outdoor pavilion, we will join with organizations across the country in a simultaneous reading of this famous document. Community leaders will read individual segments as we join the thousands who will read as well. A 4:30 start time will allow visitors to enjoy light refreshments, join in the Pledge of Allegiance, and interact with costumed members of DAR and SAR. At conclusion, guests are invited to tour the museum, which focuses on the heritage of the old West. Free admission.

Reading of Declaration of Independence
2026-07-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Comstock ISD, 101 Sanderson St, Comstock, Texas, 78837, United States
On this day 250 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was read aloud to the public for the first time.

To commemorate this special date, we will be joining in a nationwide simultaneous public reading of the Declaration of Independence at 5:00 PM today at our school auditorium.
The public is welcome to attend.

A reading of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Frontier Baptist Church, 208 S Ann St., Brackettville, TX, 78832, United States
On this day 250 years ago, the Declaration of Independence was read aloud to the public for the first time.

To commemorate this special date, we will be joining in a nationwide simultaneous public reading of the Declaration of Independence at 5:00 PM CST.

Red, White, and Crafty
2026-07-09 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Sam Bell Maxey House, 812 South Church St, Paris, Texas, 75460, United States
Red, White, and Crafty is a hands-on, craft-focused summer program that invites young creators to explore art, tradition, and community through weekly creative projects. Meeting on Thursdays in July, each session features a new themed craft inspired by history, seasonal celebrations, and classic American pastimes. This program also connects to America250, encouraging participants to reflect on shared traditions and creative expression as we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States.
From festive decorations and collaborative art to sweet summer treats and fiber crafts, participants will enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled environment that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression, all in the historic setting of the Sam Bell Maxey House.

Down Home Country Parade
2026-07-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Downtown Center Point, 310 FM 480, Center Point, TX, 78010, United States
Join us in downtown Center Point as we honor our hometown, her heroes & America’s 250th birthday. We are honored to be recognized as an official America 250 and Kerr 250 event.

Legacy in the Making: Scanning and Oral History Recording
2026-07-11 10:00 - 15:00 | Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site, 1702 N 13th St, West Columbia, TX, 77486, United States
Do you have a passed down story to share? Do you have photographs of your ancestors in Brazoria County? Site educators will assist you in creating quality scans and recordings of your passed down stories, artifacts, pictures, and more. You will get full scans and recordings to keep for your records! Timeslots must be requested in advance.
During your time slot you can:
– Have your photographs scanned (photographs should relate to family or local history)
– Record an oral history
– Have an artifact photographed
Request a slot by contacting our staff by calling (979-798-2202). Slots are available at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm on each day the program is held.

The Blessings of Liberty: America's Founding Ideas and Their Significance Today
2026-07-11 11:00 - 12:00 | Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site, 2000 US HWY 287, Clarendon, TX, 79226, United States
Dr. Shaffer, Professor of History at West Texas A&M University, will be visiting the Goodnight Ranch to reflect on our nation’s 250th anniversary and its connection to our region.
In Dr. Shaffer’s own words, “The United States is a creedal nation, a country founded on ideas laid out in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Even before the Revolution, Americans saw themselves as a special people. John Winthrop described New England as a “city upon a hill” and told his followers that the world was watching them. That idea has been carried down throughout our history and was echoed by leaders like Lincoln and Reagan. The War for Independence was waged largely for ideological reasons, as American Patriots argued that the British government was taking away their sacred natural rights. To describe the new nation to the world, Jefferson wrote the Declaration, famously declaring that all men were created equal. These ideas are codified in the Constitution and Bill of Rights, which creates a democratic republic and enshrines the fundamental rights of the people. While it is true that we have not always lived up to our founding ideas, they still guide us as we celebrate our 250th anniversary. Charles and Molly Goodnight carried these ideas with them when they settled the Panhandle in the late 19th century. They were heirs to this creed, as are we. The founding ideas are our legacy and our most important inheritance.”
This FREE lecture will be followed by a self-guided tour of the Goodnight Home.

Little Texans: America250 Foods
2026-07-16 10:30 - 11:30 | Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
What did children eat during the American Revolution? Learn about these foods through crafts, activities and story time during this program especially designed for the littlest Texans (ages 2–5) and their caregivers. This hour-long program is a first museum experience with age-appropriate play and learning.
Program included with admission
Adult: $17
Student, Military, or Senior (age 65+): $13
Youth (4-17): $11
