Erie County leaders have rolled out a full slate of events for America250PA \u2014 with everything from concerts and festivals to historical programming aimed at the entire community.<\/p>\n
The county is planning a summer\u2011long celebration marking America\u2019s 250th birthday. Officials say the lineup was designed so people of all ages can take part.<\/p>\n
County Executive Christina Vogel says one local icon \u2014 the U.S. Brig Niagara \u2014 is expected to return, though it may not be completely restored right away.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Niagara is coming back, but it may not look exactly how people remember it at first,\u201d Vogel said. \u201cThey\u2019ve had some challenges with changes and rigging, but hopefully by the end of the summer, it will be fully restored.\u201d<\/p>\n
The America250PA schedule starts with a free kickoff concert featuring The Fray. Other highlights include a SeaWolves community night, an arts and music festival, and a \u2018Birthday Bash on the Bayfront\u2019 later this summer.<\/p>\n
Organizers say the events are about more than just celebration \u2014 they\u2019re also about connection.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs Erie prepares for America\u2019s 250th birthday, this is not just a history lesson,\u201d reporter Stephanie Logue said. \u201cLeaders hope it brings people together and sparks conversations about our community\u2019s future.\u201d<\/p>\n
Vogel says the celebration will also highlight Erie\u2019s unique role in history \u2014 from its contributions to public service to notable firsts in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople don\u2019t always realize the role Erie played in the founding of our nation and the history that came after,\u201d she said. \u201cFrom inventors to public service leaders \u2014 including the first female state commissioner \u2014 there is a lot to celebrate here.\u201d<\/p>\n
The public library system will also take part with ongoing programming throughout the year, including reading challenges and \u201cFounding Stories\u201d events that explore 250 years of American history.<\/p>\n
The 250 events in Erie County will be spanning places including the Erie Insurance Arena, UPMC Park, and the Erie County Fairgrounds in Wattsburg.<\/p>\n
For more information on days and times, check out this link:<\/p>\n