OHIO — Ohioans looking for family-friendly activities this summer have dozens of opportunities to take part in America250 celebrations as communities across the state commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.
America250-Ohio is coordinating hundreds of events in all 88 counties throughout 2026, with celebrations ranging from historical exhibits and festivals to community picnics, living history demonstrations and patriotic programs.
Among the upcoming events is “The Families That Built Akron” exhibit at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron. The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 13, is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and explores the families who helped shape Akron’s history while recognizing both the city’s bicentennial and America’s 250th anniversary.
Residents in Green Springs can also take part in the 1776 Patriotic Home Decorating Contest, which continues through July 1. The community-wide contest encourages homeowners to decorate their properties in patriotic themes as part of the nationwide celebration.
On Wednesday, June 25, the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus will host Fossil Fest and Tour from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The free event will feature fossil experts from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and The Ohio State University, along with family-friendly educational activities.
In the Dayton area, aviation enthusiasts can attend the Stearman Fly-In at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force on June 20-21, celebrating Ohio’s aviation heritage as part of the America250 initiative.
Cuyahoga County will host Brooklyn Celebrates America on Saturday, June 27, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park in Brooklyn. The free, family-friendly event will celebrate both the reopening of the park and America’s 250th birthday with activities throughout the day. A vintage baseball game will also be held that evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Clague Memorial Park in Westlake.
The celebration continues into July with one of Ohio’s signature America250 events. The Ohio Signature Homecoming & Picnic will be held on Saturday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Ohio Statehouse, Columbus Commons and the Ohio Theatre. The statewide celebration will feature food, entertainment, family activities and opportunities to reflect on the nation’s history. More than 200 Ohio communities are also expected to host local homecoming picnics throughout July.
A complete calendar of America250 events taking place across Ohio is available through the official America250-Ohio website, with new events continuing to be added throughout the year.
