President Donald Trump announced a sweeping agenda for the United States’ 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026, in a video released on Thursday. Trump promised “the most spectacular birthday party the world has ever seen” and outlined a series of marquee events that will take place across Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Freedom 250 Takes the Lead
A national, non‑partisan organization called Freedom 250 will oversee the festivities. Businessman and former under secretary of state Keith Krach will serve as the organization’s CEO. In a release, 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.” Trump added that more events would be announced in the future, underscoring the breadth of the planned celebrations.
The White House UFC Showdown
On Flag Day, June 14 – Trump’s birthday – the White House will host a “one‑of‑a‑kind” UFC event. The event will feature the world’s greatest fighters, all competing that same night, according to Trump. He said, “It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night.” The fight will be organized by UFC CEO Dana White and represents a unique blend of sports and presidential spectacle.
The Great American State Fair on the National Mall
From June 25 to July 10, the National Mall will host the Great American State Fair, featuring pavilions from all 50 states. Trump described the fair as “You’ll never see anything like it again,” and it will anchor the July 4 festivities with a “Salute to America” that echoes his first‑term celebrations. The fair will showcase state‑specific culture, food, and entertainment, drawing millions of visitors to the heart of the capital.
Lighting the Washington Monument and Other Highlights
The anniversary year will begin on New Year’s Eve, when the Washington Monument will be illuminated to mark “the start of this once‑in‑a‑generation anniversary year.” The monument will remain lit nightly through January 5, 2026. A National Prayer Event will be held on the National Mall in spring to “rededicate our country as One Nation Under God,” Trump said, adding, “We’re not changing that. A lot of people would like to see it. It’ll never happen.” On Memorial Day, the Spirit of America parade will honor fallen soldiers.
The Patriot Games Athletic Competition
Trump announced the Patriot Games, a four‑day high‑school athletic competition in the fall. The event will call “one young man and one young woman from each state and territory,” and Trump emphasized that “there will be no men playing in women’s sports.” The games aim to celebrate youth talent and foster interstate camaraderie.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 250th anniversary will feature a White House UFC fight, a National Mall state fair, and fireworks on July 4.
- Freedom 250, led by Keith Krach, will coordinate the national celebration.
- Washington Monument lighting, a National Prayer Event, and the Patriot Games round out the program.
In a sweeping statement, Trump said, “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 concluded that “We’re going to have a good time.” The plan promises to make the United States’ 250th anniversary one of the most memorable in history.
