3 days ago
Ohio invites everyone to America's 250th birthday bash
America turns 250 years old a year from Friday, and the folks planning Ohio's once-in-a-generation celebration say everything is on track.
Why it matters: The birthday party will last all year and all 88 counties are on the guest list after passing resolutions to participate.
The semiquincentennial is meant to be a unifying moment as we celebrate our state and its place in U.S. history.
Case in point: This time next year, the Ohio History Center will be one of several sites hosting a community picnic to bring people together.
Catch up quick: Planning kicked off back in 2022. The festivities will include signature statewide events, as well as one-off celebrations in participating communities.
The Ohio legislature is funding much of the programming and some has already begun.
"We're thrilled at how Ohioans are really embracing this," America 250-Ohio executive director Todd Klesmit tells Axios.
The latest: Expect to see 250-Ohio marchers in Thursday's Red, White & Boom parade, stepping off at 5:30pm, and find activities at the Ohio State Fair later this month, inside the Lausche Building.
Some of what's planned for 2026:
🗓️ Monthly celebration themes, including "Ohio firsts," farms, fairs, arts and sports.
An estimated 7,000 Revolutionary War veterans are buried in Ohio. This effort will honor them by mapping their final resting places with the public's help.
🚂 250 Buckeye Train: Take a train ride on the historic Pennsylvania Railroad to the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum in Eastern Ohio.
There are two round trips, departing from Columbus (April 25, $150) or Newark (April 26, $135). Tickets.
