In 2026, events will be hosted across the Commonwealth commemorating America's 250th anniversary. Make your way to Erie to dive into history, and mark the occasion, at one of these special events. 

This blog will be updated as new events and commemorations are planned. 

Last updated: February 24, 2026

From Founders to Frontiers: 250 Years of Northwest Pennsylvania Innovation

March 13, 2026

Jefferson Educational Society presents a series of lectures that pay homage to America 250 and Erie's role. This is the first installment in the Keystone Sparks: Inventing the Next Pennsylvania three-part seminar series hosted by the Ben Franklin Technology Partners and the Jefferson Educational Society. From early industrial breakthroughs to today’s tech-driven entrepreneurship, this opening session, led by Ben Franklin Technology Partner Regional Director and Portfolio Manager Brian Slawin, explores the history of innovation in our region, why Pennsylvania has long been a national pioneer and how organizations such as Ben Franklin Technology Partners helps turn ideas into companies, jobs and opportunity. 

Old Fashioned Sugar Stir at Hurry Hill Maple Farm

March 14, 2026

The Hurry Hill Maple Farm will celebrate America 250 by expanding its annual two-day Taste and Tour. Maple Syrup is the first agricultural crop of the calendar year and Hurry Hill Maple Farm will involve visitors in an old-fashioned "sugar-stir," a community gathering when colonists celebrated the coming of spring. 

Songs That Remember: Oral Traditions and Cultural Resilience in Diasporic Families

March 16, 2026

Jefferson Educational Society presents a series of lectures that pay homage to America 250 and Erie's role. This talk will explore the performance of songs and lullabies as an act of perseverance to preserve cultural memories. 

From Deck to Deadline: B.S. Obson's Civil War Naval Experience - How One Man Served in the Union Navy

March 17, 2026

Jefferson Educational Society presents a series of lectures that pay homage to America 250 and Erie's role. Wounded in battle and acquainted with Union leaders from President Lincoln to Admiral Farragut, Osbon’s story is unique in the history of Civil War journalism, which Brian Graff will share in this partnership lecture series between the JES and the Erie Civil War Roundtable. 

Salute to America's 250th Birthday in Lake Erie Wine Country

April 17-19, 2026

Join Lake Erie Wine Country for traditional American food, wine, and memories you'll cherish with a trip to Lake Erie Wine Country April 17-19. Wine tasting guests will receive a keepsake wine glass as a memento of their visit.

HistERIE Week at the Erie Library

May 16-23, 2026

The Erie County Public Library will host an epic, week-long exploration of Erie's own "Founding Stories" that recognize our region's ties and contributions to the United States of America during HistERIE Week. 

America250PA Concert Series

June 6, 2026

To celebrate America's 250th birthday, America250PA will host six free concerts featuring national headlining artists all across the Commonwealth, including a stop in Erie! The event will be hosted at Erie Insurance Arena. Performers and ticket information will be announced at a later date.

Made in the USA at the expERIEnce Children's Museum

July 1, 2026

Visitors will enjoy a wide array of traditional craftsmanship through hands-on stations where little artists will create an item of their own to take home. The skilled artisans on hand will showcase the timeless techniques and crafts that shaped the development of Pennsylvania, and the US, from colonial times through the industrial revolution. 

The Return of the U.S. Brig Niagara

July 2, 2026

After more than a year away, Erie's flagship returns to her home port just in time for America 250! The U.S. Brig Niagara will sail back into Presque Isle Bay with fanfare, as well as remain open for deck tours, all weekend. More details to come.