From 1776 to 2026, Erie has played a role in the United States of America’s rich history, and to celebrate Erie’s part in the story, Erie County is announcing a summer-long series of events, joining millions of Americans across the country for America250.

“I think it’s time we have an event that brings people together, and I think this is a great way to do that. We are all Americans, we have a shared history, and I think we should celebrate that,” said Christina Vogel, Erie County Executive. ” I just hope everybody gets involved, takes something from this, makes it a memorable summer, and learns a little more about Erie County and our nation.”

Erie’s summer celebration will kick off with a free concert by “The Fray” on June 9th at Erie Insurance Arena, followed by a community night and fireworks show at the Erie Seawolves game on June 12th.

Then on June 14th, the America250 Arts and Music Festival will be coming to the Erie County Fairgrounds in Wattsburg, featuring a “Flags of Unity” display by the Sons of Lake Erie, a car show and a dedication of the county’s 50-year time capsule.

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Finally, the celebration will come to Erie’s Bayfront on August 21st for the America250 Birthday Bash, where attendees can expect live entertainment, historical reenactments and food and beverages throughout different time periods in America’s history.

Furthermore, the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority announced half a million dollars in grants to support America 250 initiatives across the county.

“Basically, all those funds have been spent at this point. We’ve gotten a lot of grant applications from amazing organizations, historical societies, local groups that are doing festivals and parades, and of course some really exciting local projects like preserving the history of Harry T. Burleigh and Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry.”

Wood said it’s important to invest in Erie’s story, and they’re particularly embracing Erie’s role in War of 1812.

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“The War of 1812 is considered America’s second war of independence because we were still fighting against Britain. They were still capturing our ships, and Erie, being a central part of the fleet being built, without this town, we may not have stayed the United States of America,” said Ron Vollentine, Vice President of the Erie Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.

Vollentine said he’ll be celebrating his freedom at several America250 happenings this summer, even designing an Erie-themed sticker he’ll be giving out at different events.

Later this year, county officials said additional community programming will include an Erie County-focused trivia night and other events to be announced.

More information on Erie’s history and this summer’s events can be found online here.

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