President Donald Trump announced a sweeping agenda to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026, promising fireworks, a state fair, a UFC bout, and more.
State Fair on the National Mall
Trump said the capital will host a “Great American State Fair” from June 25 to July 10, featuring pavilions representing all 50 states. “You’ll never see anything like it again,” Trump said. The fair is set to anchor July 4 festivities and will showcase American culture, food, and entertainment.
UFC Fight at the White House
On Flag Day, June 14, the White House will stage a one‑of‑a‑kind UFC event. Trump said the world’s greatest fighters will compete in an event hosted by UFC CEO Dana White. “It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night,” Trump said.
Washington Monument Lights
The festivities will begin on New Year’s Eve. The Washington Monument will be lit to mark “the start of this once‑in‑a‑generation anniversary year.” The monument will remain illuminated nightly through Jan. 5, 2026.
National Prayer Event
A National Prayer Event will take place on the National Mall in spring. Trump said it will “rededicate our country as One Nation Under God. We’re not changing that. A lot of people would like to see it. It’ll never happen.”
Memorial Day Parade
The Spirit of America parade will honor fallen soldiers on Memorial Day, according to a Freedom 250 press release.
Patriot Games
Trump announced the “Patriot Games,” a four‑day athletic competition in the fall. The games will call high school athletes, featuring “one young man and one young woman from each state and territory.” Trump added that there will be no men playing in women’s sports.
Freedom 250 Organization
A national, non‑partisan group called Freedom 250 will oversee the celebrations. Keith Krach, a businessman and former under secretary of state, will serve as Freedom 250’s CEO. “2026 will mark a celebration of America unlike anything we have ever done and I am grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to execute his vision for Freedom 250,” Krach said in the release.
Great American State Fair Highlights
The fair will feature:
- Pavilions from every state and territory
- Food and craft vendors
- Live music and cultural displays
- Interactive exhibits celebrating American history
Fourth of July Spectacular
Trump promised another “Salute to America” on Independence Day, echoing his first‑term event. The celebration will include a spectacular military flyover, a major presidential address, and “the largest fireworks display in the world.”
Other 250th Anniversary Events
Freedom 250 and the Smithsonian have also outlined additional activities, though details are still forthcoming. The organization will continue to announce new events as the anniversary approaches.
Key Takeaways
- Trump’s 2026 celebration includes a state fair, UFC fight, monument lights, and a Patriot Games.
- Freedom 250, led by CEO Keith Krach, will manage the festivities.
- The Fourth of July will feature a massive fireworks display and military flyover.
President Trump’s announcement sets the stage for a year‑long series of events aimed at marking the United States’ 250th birthday with unprecedented fanfare and national pride.
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