<\/p>\n
This summer marks America\u2019s 250 birthday, and Erie is joining right alongside the country to celebrate with various events to mark the occasion.<\/p>\n
Witness to History: The Eagle Hotel \u2013 May 2, 2026<\/p>\n
The first installment of this recurring program explores the 200-year history of the Eagle Hotel through talks and exhibits highlighting its role in Erie\u2019s past.<\/p>\n
HistERIE Week \u2013 May 16\u201323, 2026<\/p>\n
The Erie County Public Library hosts a weeklong \u201cFounding Stories\u201d celebration featuring exhibits, talks, and activities that showcase Erie\u2019s contribution to American history.<\/p>\n
Crash\u2011A\u2011Rama \u2013 May 23, 2026<\/p>\n
Lake Erie Speedway launches its season with high-energy racing, stunt competitions including a long jump challenge, and a massive America 250 fireworks extravaganza.<\/p>\n
Memorial Day Ceremony \u2013 May 25, 2026<\/p>\n
Held at Erie County Veterans Memorial Park, this ceremony honors fallen service members with music from the North Coast Brass Company.<\/p>\n
America250PA Commonwealth Concert Series \u2013 June 6, 2026<\/p>\n
A free concert at Erie Insurance Arena brings world-class music to the region as part of Pennsylvania\u2019s statewide America 250 celebration.<\/p>\n
Erie 250: Lights and Liberty on the Lake featuring The Fray \u2013 June 6, 2026<\/p>\n
This major kickoff celebration includes a concert event along the waterfront, highlighting music and patriotic festivities.<\/p>\n
Witness to History: The Eagle Hotel \u2013 June 6, 2026<\/p>\n
The second installment continues the series examining the historic Eagle Hotel and its significance over two centuries.<\/p>\n
Erie Playhouse presents 1776 \u2013 June 12\u201328, 2026<\/p>\n
This award-winning musical tells the story of the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, bringing America\u2019s founding to life on stage.<\/p>\n
America 250 PA Erie County Arts, Music and History Festival and Car Show \u2013 June 14, 2026<\/p>\n
Held at the Erie County Fairgrounds, this event combines live entertainment, historical exhibits, and a classic car show.<\/p>\n
When the Woods Were Alive \u2013 June 20, 2026<\/p>\n
Seneca artist Leon Sam Briggs shares stories, traditions, and cultural history of the Seneca people.<\/p>\n
Make and Take Fiber Arts Workshop \u2013 June 27, 2026<\/p>\n
Participants create hands-on crafts inspired by historical traditions and cultural techniques.<\/p>\n
SeaWolves Fireworks Night \u2013 June 28, 2026<\/p>\n
Fans gather at UPMC Park for baseball, followed by a fireworks display after the game.<\/p>\n
Flying Legends of Victory Warbird Tour \u2013 June 30 to July 5, 2026<\/p>\n
Historic WWII aircraft, including a B-17 and B-25, are on display and available for tours and flights at Erie International Airport.<\/p>\n
Made in the USA at the expERIEnce Children\u2019s Museum \u2013 July 1, 2026<\/p>\n
Families enjoy hands-on crafts and demonstrations of traditional American skills and craftsmanship.<\/p>\n
Weekly Concerts & Jazz Night at Whitford Park \u2013 Summer 2026 (beginning July 1)<\/p>\n
A series of outdoor concerts, including patriotic-themed jazz performances, take place throughout the summer.<\/p>\n
Return of the U.S. Brig Niagara \u2013 July 2, 2026<\/p>\n
Erie\u2019s historic flagship sails back into Presque Isle Bay, offering tours and celebrations throughout the holiday weekend.<\/p>\n
Brig Niagara Sail-In \u2013 July 2, 2026<\/p>\n
The ship\u2019s arrival is marked with festivities welcoming it back to Erie\u2019s waterfront.<\/p>\n
America 250 Birthday Veteran Celebration \u2013 July 2, 2026 (2 p.m.\u2013dark)<\/p>\n
The first day of this two-day event at the Mellon Veteran Outreach Center features live music, a motorcycle parade, vendors, food trucks, and 21-gun salute honoring veterans.<\/p>\n
America 250 Birthday Veteran Celebration \u2013 July 3, 2026 (begins 2 p.m.)<\/p>\n
The second day continues with entertainment, activities, giveaways, and fundraising to support veterans and first responders.<\/p>\n
Concert featuring The Marshall Tucker Band \u2013 July 3, 2026 (6:30 p.m.)<\/p>\n
A major live performance at the Rebich Investments Amphitheatre draws music fans to the bayfront.<\/p>\n
America 250 Celebration Concert with Hot Mess \u2013 July 3, 2026 (7:45\u201310 p.m.)<\/p>\n
This concert at the Mellon Veteran Outreach Center adds to the evening\u2019s festivities.<\/p>\n
Erie250: Light and Liberty on the Lake \u2013 July 3, 2026<\/p>\n
A signature Independence Day event featuring a concert and fireworks display over Lake Erie.<\/p>\n
Lights Over Lake Erie Fireworks \u2013 July 3, 2026<\/p>\n
A large-scale fireworks show lights up the bayfront as part of the America 250 celebration.<\/p>\n
Erie Commodores FC vs. Ohio Ambassadors FC \u2013 July 3, 2026<\/p>\n
A special themed soccer match at Mercyhurst University celebrates the occasion with community spirit.<\/p>\n
Witness to History: The Eagle Hotel \u2013 July 4, 2026<\/p>\n
A special Independence Day installment of the historical series continues exploring the site\u2019s legacy.<\/p>\n
18th Century Life and Traditions \u2013 July 11, 2026<\/p>\n
Reenactors bring colonial America to life through demonstrations, crafts, games, and period dress.<\/p>\n
Kiwanis Club of Erie 250 Carnival \u2013 July 11, 2026 (11 a.m.\u20132 p.m.)<\/p>\n
A free, family-friendly celebration at Columbus Park offers games, food, and activities.<\/p>\n
America Bicentennial Reenactments \u2013 July 18, 2026<\/p>\n
Fort LeBoeuf Historical Museum hosts demonstrations of 18th and 19th century military and civilian life.<\/p>\n
Witness to History: The Eagle Hotel \u2013 August 1, 2026<\/p>\n
The series continues with additional talks and exhibits on the historic landmark.<\/p>\n
Command & Courage: Oliver Hazard Perry Symposium – August 13\u201314, 2026<\/p>\n
The Hagen History Center hosts historians and experts discussing the life and legacy of the War of 1812 naval hero.<\/p>\n
Witness to History: The Eagle Hotel \u2013 September 5, 2026<\/p>\n
Another installment explores the Eagle Hotel\u2019s ongoing historical significance.<\/p>\n
Hagen History Center Gala: \u201cA Night at the Museum\u201d \u2013 September 12, 2026<\/p>\n
An America 250-themed gala with exhibits, entertainment, and fireworks celebrates U.S. history.<\/p>\n
Sing250 Choral Series \u2013 October 17, 2026 (6\u20138 p.m.)<\/p>\n
The celebration concludes with a choral performance honoring America\u2019s 250th anniversary through music.<\/p>\n
Together, these events span from early May through October 2026, forming a comprehensive, countywide celebration of America\u2019s 250th anniversary.<\/p>\n