Honor, Flight & Freedom Celebrating America250
2026-07-04 14:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | 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.

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.

Red, White, and Crafty
2026-07-09 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-23 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, 2026-07-18 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

Roots and Legacy: Celebrating Our Unique Heritage
2026-07-18 13:00 - 14:00 | . Landmark Inn State Historic Site, 402 Florence Street, Castroville, TX, 78009, United States
Celebrate America’s 250th at the Landmark Inn with a look into the diverse traditions and stories that shape our state. Highlighting the unique heritage of Castroville, this program highlights the town’s rich cultural roots, historic charm, and lasting legacy in Texas history.

Richardson Community Band: Music Through the Ages
2026-07-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Richardson City Hall, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd., Richardson, TX, 75082, United States
The Richardson Community Band will give a concert highlighting musical traditions throughout the eras of our nation’s history. For all ages.

Trivia Night at The Waystone
2026-07-30 18:30 - 20:30 | The Waystone, 2101 W Wadley Ave Suite 27, Midland, TX, 79705, United States
Join us for a special Trivia Night with The Waystone! This year we will have 1950s and America 250 themed questions. Winners will receive prizes for 1st to 3rd place.

American Experiment: Evidence of our Past (Briscoe Center Exhibit)
2026-08-15 08:00 - 2027-01-10 17:00 | LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St., Austin, TX, 78705, United States
Through an exceptional partnership with the National Archives and Records Administration and the Briscoe Center for American History, the Library showcases extraordinary original documents that have shaped the course of American history. Across four rotating exhibitions, visitors will encounter defining moments—from the Brown v. Board of Education decision and the Fourteenth Amendment to the Louisiana Purchase and the Wright Brothers’ Flying Machine Patent.

On view from June through January, this once-in-a-lifetime experience pairs these iconic artifacts with dynamic public programs featuring leading historians, authors, and thought leaders. Together, they explore how the American story has unfolded over 250 years—and where it may go next.

Little Texans: America250 Games
2026-08-20 10:30 - 11:30 | Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N. Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701, United States
Learn about games children played during the American Revolution through 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.
This program is FREE for Members or with Museum admission.

Legacy on the Land: 150 Years of the JA Ranch
2026-08-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site, 2000 US HWY 287, Clarendon, TX, 79226, United States
While our country turns 250 years old, the first cattle ranch in the Texas Panhandle, the famed JA, turns 150!
In honor of this momentous occasion, Dr. Alex Hunt from West Texas A&M University is visiting the Goodnight Ranch on Saturday, August 22nd at 11 am and will look back at the history of the JA and how its culture is deeply rooted in the landscape and people of the Texas Panhandle.
This free program is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so saddle up and bring your family and friends over! This event is presented as part of Texas-America250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Legacy on the Land: Cornelia Adair's JA Ranch
2026-08-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site, 2000 US HWY 287, Clarendon, TX, 79226, United States
While our country turns 250 years old, the first cattle ranch in the Texas Panhandle, the famed JA, turns 150!
In honor of this momentous occasion, Dr. Alex Hunt from West Texas A&M University is visiting the Goodnight Ranch on Saturday, August 22nd at 11 am and will look back at the history of the woman behind the ranch, Cornelia Wadsworth Ritchie Adair.
This talk will give a brief overview of Cornelia’s life, with special emphasis on Cornelia’s relationship to the JA. Cornelia was an individual with strong ideas regarding land and livestock, and even when she could not visit so regularly, maintained close communication with the ranch. While she long felt that the ranch must be sold to give way to changing times, she never could bring herself to actually make the sale.
This free program is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so saddle up and bring your family and friends over! This event is presented as part of Texas-America250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Finding Your Roots: Genealogy at the Fulton Mansion
2026-08-29 14:00 - 15:00 | Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, 317 S. Fulton Beach Rd., Rockport, Texas, 78382, United States
As part of our America 250 celebration, join us at the Fulton Mansion for a genealogy presentation that connects the past to the present through family history. We’ll explore how archival records, census data, and family heirlooms can reveal rich, personal stories. Participants will learn beginner-friendly techniques to start their own genealogical research, with tips on using online tools, organizing family documents, and navigating historical records. Whether you’re just beginning or continuing a family history project, this presentation offers practical insights and inspiration. Discover how tracing your roots can deepen your connection to American history and give new meaning to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

A Night of Honor Music & Legacy | AMERICA 250 | TEXAS 250
2026-09-19 17:00 - 21:00 | Arneson River Theatre, 418 Villita Street, San Antonio, TX, 78205, United States
Veterans Soirée on the Riverwalk: Honoring Service, Celebrating America Join The Platform Magazine Foundation for an unforgettable evening.

Join The Platform Magazine Foundation for the Veterans Soirée on the River Walk, a special evening dedicated to honoring veterans, military families, and the enduring spirit of American service.
Held at the historic Arneson River Theatre in San Antonio, this free community event will feature live entertainment, cultural performances, scholarship presentations, and special recognitions as we celebrate the individuals who have served our nation and the next generation of leaders they inspire.
As part of the nationwide America 250 | Freedom 250 commemoration, the evening will bring together community members, students, veterans, military families, and supporters for a memorable celebration of patriotism, education, service, and civic engagement.
