America250 celebrations are well underway, with more big events to come. This summer, you’ll be able to explore all 50 states on the National Mall, experience an IndyCar race on the streets of DC, and catch a world record-breaking fireworks display. Here are nine 250th anniversary events to add to your calendar.
UFC Freedom 250
June 14, 8 p.m.
The South Lawn of the White House is transforming into a UFC octagon. The main fight card lineup for the one-night-only event will include seven fights, with the lightweight title bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje closing out the night. Tickets are required to view the fight at The Ellipse. The White House, Washington, DC
Voices and Votes: Exploring Democracy Across America
June 16–September 7
The Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building is temporarily reopening to join the 250 celebrations. Set to open on Tuesday, June 16, the traveling exhibit will look at the people that not only established our democracy but also the people and movements that continue to protect it. Arts and Industries Building: 900 Jefferson Dr. SW, Washington, DC, free
Great American State Fair
June 25–July 10
Head down to the Mall for a chance to explore 56 different pavilions, representing all of the country’s states and territories. Throughout the fair you’ll find specialty exhibits, live performances, and attractions. Between 14 and Fourth Streets, Washington, DC, free
National Independence Day Parade
July 4, 10:30 a.m.
If you plan on being in DC for the fireworks, leave even earlier for a chance to catch the parade. The annual parade will kick off the Fourth of July celebrations in DC with bands, floats, balloons, drill teams, and celebrity sightings. Independence Avenue, Washington, DC, free
Fourth of July Fireworks
July 4, TBA
Now this is a fireworks show you don’t want to miss. The annual fireworks display is expected to break the Guinness World Record for the biggest fireworks show. It will include 30 minutes of pyrotechnics, almost twice as long as last year. Washington, DC, free
American Aspirations
Through July 26
The Smithsonian Castle has also temporarily reopened to showcase a new 250 exhibit. The exhibit will bring together more than 30 of the museum’s most treasured artifacts, including Thomas Jefferson’s writing desk, Sally Ride’s in-flight space suit, and Thomas Edison’s light bulb. Smithsonian Castle: 1000 Jefferson Dr. SW, Washington, DC, free
26th National Book Festival
August 22
The theme of this year’s National Book festival is America250: It’s Your Story. The free festival will be showcasing the Library of Congress’ collection on American folklife, veterans’ history, film, music, and more. Washington Convention Center: 801 Allen Y. Lew Pl. NW, Washington, DC, free
Freedom 250 Grand Prix
August 22 & 23
The first ever IndyCar race in DC features a 1.66-mile track that takes drivers around the National Mall, showing off some of DC’s iconic monuments in the process. National Mall, Washington, DC, free, tickets are required to enter Stars & Stripes sections
In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness
Through 2026
All three floors of the American History Museum will pay tribute to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Spend the day exploring the 250 objects on display, from the 1813 flag that inspired the National Anthem to the only surviving ship of the Revolutionary War. American History Museum: 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC, free
Feature image courtesy Freedom 250 Grand Prix
