In an ambitious announcement, President-elect Donald Trump revealed plans for a grand, year-long celebration of America’s 250th birthday, set to commence on Memorial Day in 2025 and culminating on July 4, 2026.
The initiative, titled “Salute to America 250,” aims to commemorate the country’s founding in 1776 with nationwide events, bringing Americans together in a display of patriotism and unity.
“Three years from now, the United States will celebrate the biggest and most important milestone in our country’s history, 250 years of American independence. What a great country, and we have to keep it that way,” Trump said. “That’s why, as a nation, we should be preparing for a most spectacular birthday party. We want to make it the best of all time.”
Trump’s plan begins with the formation of a White House task force, “Salute to America 250,” which will coordinate with state and local governments to ensure the celebrations span the entire year, not just July 4.
“On day one, I will convene a White House task force called Salute to America 250. It will be responsible for coordinating with state and local governments to ensure not just one day of celebration, but an entire year of festivities across the nation, starting on Memorial Day, 2025 and continuing through July 4, 2026.”
A key element of the plan is the creation of the “Great American State Fair,” a unique exhibition Trump envisions as a gathering of pavilions from all 50 states.
Trump has suggested the Iowa State Fairgrounds as a potential location for this showcase. “The Great American State Fair will showcase the glory of every state in the union, promote pride in our history and put forth innovative visions for America’s future,” Trump explained.
“My hope is that the amazing people of Iowa will work with my administration to open up the legendary Iowa State Fairgrounds to host the Great American State Fair and welcome millions and millions of visitors from around the world.”
In addition to the fair, Trump outlined plans for “Patriot Games,” a series of high school sporting contests designed to showcase young Americans’ athletic skills and competitive spirit.
“These Patriot Games will allow young Americans from every state to show off the best of American skills, sportsmanship, and competitive spirit,” Trump said, emphasizing the role of high school sports in fostering unity.
The celebration will also see the reinstatement of the “National Garden of American Heroes,” a project that had been previously announced but was never completed.
Trump committed to signing an executive order to commission the first 100 statues in the garden, honoring prominent figures from American history. “We want to build it very badly,” Trump remarked, describing the statuary park as a tribute to “the greatest Americans of all time.”
Furthering his vision for a global celebration, Trump extended an invitation to leaders and citizens worldwide to visit the United States for the 250th anniversary. “I will invite the leaders and citizens of nations around the world to visit the United States in honor of our 250th anniversary. It’s going to be great,” Trump said.
