In a video released Thursday, President Donald Trump announced a series of events to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, including a UFC fight at the White House, a state fair on the National Mall, and a promise of the largest fireworks display in the world.
250th Anniversary Vision
Trump said in the video, “When I campaigned for president, I pledged to give America the most spectacular birthday party the world has ever seen for America’s 250th anniversary on July 4 next year,” he added. “Already, we’ve had big celebrations to commemorate the 250th birthdays of the Army, the Navy and the United States Marines, but there is much, much more to come. We’re going to have a good time.”
Key Events
- Washington Monument lights: The monument will be lit on New Year’s Eve and will stay illuminated nightly through Jan. 5, 2026.
- National Prayer Event: Trump said the event would “rededicate our country as One Nation Under God. We’re not changing that. A lot of people would like to see it. It’ll never happen.”
- Memorial Day parade: The Spirit of America parade will honor fallen soldiers on Memorial Day.
- UFC fight at the White House: On Flag Day, June 14, the White House will host a one‑of‑a‑kind UFC event. Trump said, “It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night.”
- Great American State Fair: From June 25 to July 10, the National Mall will feature pavilions representing all 50 states. Trump remarked, “You’ll never see anything like it again.”
- Fourth of July Salute: Trump will host another “Salute to America,” promising a spectacular military flyover, a major presidential address, and “the largest fireworks display in the world.”
- Patriot Games: A four‑day high‑school athletic competition in the fall will feature “one young man and one young woman from each state and territory,” Trump said. He added, “But I promise there will be no men playing in women’s sports.”
Freedom 250 Organization
A national, non‑partisan group called Freedom 250 will oversee the celebrations. Keith Krach, a businessman and former under secretary of state, will serve as its CEO. Krach said, “2026 will mark a celebration of America unlike anything we have ever done and I am grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to execute his vision for Freedom 250.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump’s 2026 celebration includes a UFC fight, state fair, and the largest fireworks display.
- Freedom 250, led by Keith Krach, will manage the events.
- The Washington Monument will light up nightly through January 5, 2026.
The announcement sets the stage for a series of grand events aimed at commemorating America’s 250th birthday next year.
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