Ohio Republican Party

Time Capsule Opening at the Bandstand
2026-07-04 13:30 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Zane Square (Bandstand in Downtown Lancaster), 104 N Broad St, Lancaster, OH, 43130-3701, US
An event 50 years in the making!
We will be opening the time capsule that was sealed in the bandstand during its construction in 1976! Hear from local historian Michael Johnson, Lancaster Parks & Recreation Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Shamblin and local politicians. You will also have an opportunity to speak with Larry Smith, one of the original builders of the structure.
We will be placing the contents back into the capsule (along with some items from 2026) and resealing it. It is to be opened once again in 2076, 100 years after the original construction. Come see what Lancaster residents left for us 50 years ago!
The event will take place after the 4th of July Parade at 1:30pm at the bandstand in Downtown Lancaster. It will last approximately 1 hour.

Shaker Heights July 4 Pool Party
2026-07-04 13:00 - 17:00 | Thornton Park Pool, 3301 Warrensville Center Road, Shaker Heights, OH, 44122, US
Join your friends and neighbors at Thornton Park Pool for a holiday ‘splash’ this summer!
Features include music, activities, the Euclid Beach Rocket Car, a dunk tank, goody bags, and food/beverage purchases.
Regular pool admissions and rules apply. Advance daily admission is available online with pricing based on age and resident status.

Independence Day 1813
2026-07-04 12:00 - 17:00 | Fort Meigs Historic Site, 29100 W River Rd, Perrysburg, OH, 43551, US
July 4, 1813 was a day of festivity at Fort Meigs. Soldiers fired 18 shots from cannons in a National Salute and spent the day celebrating the founding of the nation they were defending.
This recreation features weapons demonstrations, historic musical performances, civilian activities, and an 18-cannon salute.
Admission:

Adults: $12.00
Seniors (60+): $10.00
Students/Kids: $7.00
Children 5 and under: Free

Evergreen Cemetery & Chapel American 250-Ohio Celebration July 4 Picnic
2026-07-04 12:00 - 16:00 | Evergreen Cemetery and Chapel, 271 West Troy Street, St. Paris, OH, 43072, US
Community-focused gathering combining picnic fare and recreational activities. Features a historical tour of the local cemetery and chapel, established in 1877.
The celebration aims to unite residents in honoring both Ohio’s heritage and American traditions during the nation’s 250th anniversary milestone.
RSVP: evergreencemeteryandchapel@yahoo.com

'Rejoice America' Mural
2026-07-04 12:00 - 16:00 | ARK in Berea Eco-Museum, 519 Karen Dr, Berea, OH, 44017, US
‘REJOICE AMERICA’ by environmental artist David Jakupca is the World’s Smallest Hand Painted Outdoor Mural commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary was dedicated at the Edelweiss Garden of the historic ARK in Berea Museum on July, 4th, 2026.
‘REJOICE AMERICA’ celebrates murals as visual expressions of identity, civilization, lifestyle, education and belonging. Drawing from America’s rich cultural heritage, it features patterns from various communities, subtly echoing the Nation’s geography and native landscapes.
‘REJOICE AMERICA’ incorporates iconic folk motifs, like the Worlds Children Peace Monument (WCPM), the cornerstone of the Great American Peace Trail, paired with images symbolizing how traditions are deeply rooted in both place and people. The composition evokes warmth and welcome, inviting reflection and connection and simple authentic happiness through Iceality.
‘REJOICE AMERICA’ — honors Indigenous American. Mexican American. African European communities through pattern, color. and symbolism. The design represents the ever-changing cultures as fluid — evolving, celebrating and shaped by shared experiences — truly a multicultural mural that celebrates America’s heritage and its Future.

1976 Galion Time Capsule Opening Ceremony and Community Picnic
2026-07-04 12:00 - 16:00 | Heise Park, 2 Heise Park Lane, Galion, OH, 44833, US
Public ceremony begins at 12:00pm. The unveiling of the 1976 Galion Time Capsule artifacts display will be held near the time capsule monument by the Gill Avenue entrance.
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or grab a bite from the food vendors at the Pickle Run Festival. Bring your own blankets or chairs.
Enjoy a meaningful ceremony with patriotic music and speakers from the Galion History Center, the Lion’s Club, and the City of Galion.

Freedom Bells at Hughes Schoolhouse
2026-07-04 11:30 - 12:30 | Hughes Schoolhouse, 6010 Princeton Rd, Liberty Township, OH, 45014, US
Join the Hopewell Chapter, NSDAR, and the Liberty Township Historical Society for a Freedom Bells observance commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States. Held at the historic Hughes Schoolhouse in Liberty Township, this community observance will include reflections on the Declaration of Independence, historical readings, bell ringing at 12:00 noon as part of the nationwide Freedom Bells initiative, and opportunities for community fellowship and reflection.
Freedom Bells is a coordinated national observance marking July 4, 1776, and celebrating the ideals of liberty, self-government, and civic remembrance that continue to shape our nation 250 years later.
This event is free and open to the public.

Picnic in the Park, Fountain Dedication
2026-07-04 11:00 - 14:00 | Central Park Square, 30 North Diamond Street, Mansfield, OH, 44902, US
Rededication of the 1881 fountain, Picnic in the Park with free ice cream and live Jazz music and opening of Bicentennial time capsule with fireworks at dusk at Mansfield Speedway.

Wyandot County 4th of July Parade
2026-07-04 11:00 - 13:00 | Downtown Upper Sandusky to the High School, N Sandusky Ave and W Wyandot Ave (finishing at the Fire Station), Upper Sandusky, OH, 43351, US
Groups in town are encouraged to create floats to join the parade or just to watch the parade.

Talk: Signers of the Declaration of Independence
2026-07-04 10:30 - 11:00 | Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, 1337 Hayes Ave, Fremont, OH, 43420, US
In 1776, 56 delegates representing each of the 13 colonies signed what would become one of the most daring, revolutionary and complex documents in human history.
The program explores how losing the Revolutionary War would have made the Declaration a death warrant for these men. Historian Josh Dubbert presents well-known and lesser-known signers and their roles before and after American independence.
The presentation takes place in the museum’s lower level.
Cost: $2.50 (non-members); Free for Hayes Presidential members.
Partial funding provided by Albrechta & Liebold, Ltd., Attorneys at Law.

Hamilton 4th Of July
2026-07-04 10:00 - 22:00 | Downtown Hamilton, 10 High Street, Hamilton, OH, 45011, US
Join the city of Hamilton for their 4th of July celebration! The parade kicks off at the Butler County Fairgrounds, filling the streets with festive floats, marching bands, and community organizations. In the evening, enjoy a free concert at RiversEdge Amphitheater, followed by the annual Hamilton Firework Show.

Ashland's America's 250th Birthday Bash Parade
2026-07-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Downtown Ashland, Main Street, Ashland, OH, 44805, US
Kicking off the day will be our spectacular America’s 250th Birthday Bash Parade through downtown Ashland and we encourage local businesses, organizations and families to deck their floats in red, white and blue to commemorate this momentous occasion. The parade will kick off around 10:00 a.m. at Claremont Avenue and College Avenue, travel North and turn onto E. Main Street and continue through to Union Street.

Talk: Life in Colonial America
2026-07-04 10:00 - 10:30 | Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, 1337 Hayes Ave, Fremont, OH, 43420, US
This program examines how daily life evolved in the colonies from the arrival of Columbus to the formation of the United States. Presented by Hayes Presidential Historian Josh Dubbert, it contrasts the modern American landscape with the vast wilderness populated by a multitude of Indigenous cultures encountered by early European settlers.
The 30-minute presentation takes place in the museum’s History Lab.
Cost: $2.50 for non-members; free for Hayes Presidential members.
Partial funding provided by Albrechta & Liebold, Ltd., Attorneys at Law.

America 250 Freedom
2026-07-04 09:00 - 22:00 | Central Park Downtown Mansfield and Mansfield Speedway, 30 North Diamond Street, Mansfield, OH, US
The City of Mansfield invites the community to participate in a daylong observance marking America’s 250th Anniversary. The celebration features Fourth of July programming that honors national history while highlighting Mansfield’s local heritage. All activities are complimentary and accessible to the general public.
Featured activities include rededication of the historic 1881 Vasbinder Fountain, a park picnic with live music and refreshments, a time capsule opening, and Mansfield Speedway activities running throughout the day, concluding with a fireworks display at 9 PM.

America 250 Picnic, Celebration and Independence Day Concert
2026-07-04 09:00 - 17:00 | Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, 1337 Hayes Ave, Fremont, OH, 43420, US
America turns 250 on Saturday, July 4, and the site of America’s first presidential library has a day full of old-fashioned events and its annual Independence Day Concert to celebrate. Enjoy a day of nostalgic fun with a picnic or food truck fare; the concert performed by the Toledo Concert Band, featuring members of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra; deeply discounted admission of $2.50 for a site pass to tour the Hayes Home and museum; games and crafts; historical talks and more.
The museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for self-guided tours. Hayes Home tours begin at 9:30 a.m., will last a half hour and cover the first floor of the home only. The tours will include information about President Rutherford B. Hayes’ ancestors and their ties to colonial and Revolutionary War era history.
Food trucks include Jimmy G’s barbecue, Frozen Paradice, Tim’s Bar and Grill Food Trailer and the Maumee Valley Heritage Corridor Traveling Root Beer Stand. The USS Spiegel Grove Association will dedicate a new exhibit area for the ship’s bell at noon. The Independence Day Concert runs from 2 to 3:30 p.m., featuring the “1812 Overture” with cannon fire.

Threads Through Time
2026-07-04 09:00 - 17:00 | Pickerington-Violet Township Historical Society Museum, 15 E Columbus St, Pickerington, OH, 43147, US
An America 250 Heritage Day celebration featuring historical textiles, including an embroidered Pickering Family quilt, a WWI memorial flag with soldiers’ names stitched as stars, and a woven throw with family names.
Third-graders from Heritage Elementary created a paper quilt for the occasion. Visitors can arrange to have their names added to an America 250 quilt destined for a Bicentennial Time Capsule, “not to be seen again until the time capsule is opened in 2076.”
A model train display from The Big Roadshow is also on view.
Admission is free. Wheelchair access is available via the rear lift.

Light to Unite: July 4 Illuminated Landmarks Initiative
2026-07-04 | Statewide — Participating Ohio Landmarks, OH, US
Endorsed by America250 and the National League of Cities, Light to Unite is a nationwide initiative inviting communities to illuminate local landmarks, buildings, and public spaces in red, white, and blue on the evening of July 4, 2026.
The coordinated display serves as a symbol of unity during the U.S. Semiquincentennial commemoration. Hundreds of cities and towns have committed participation, with expansion efforts ongoing nationwide.
Communities, organizations, and property owners may participate by illuminating prominent structures in patriotic colors.
How to Participate:

Commit to illuminating a local building or landmark on July 4
Submit confirmation of participation
Share photos of illuminated landmarks
Encourage additional partners to join

Learn more and register at nationalflagfoundation.org/light-to-unite.

The Cleveland Orchestra: America at 250
2026-07-03 20:00 - 23:00 | Blossom Music Center, 1145 West Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, 44223, US
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with The Cleveland Orchestra in a stirring tribute to the breadth and brilliance of American music.
The program features Copland’s Lincoln Portrait and Gershwin’s An American in Paris, alongside additional American songs and spirituals.
Fireworks follow the performance, weather permitting.

Red, White, & KaBOOM
2026-07-03 19:00 - 22:00 | Harbin Park, 1300 Hunter Rd, Fairfield, OH, 45014, US
Independence Day celebration featuring an amazing fireworks display from Rozzi Famous Fireworks at 10 PM.
The event kicks off at 7 PM with food trucks and entertainment, followed by live music at 7:30 PM.

2026 Hoppel's Championship Rodeo Pays Tribute to America 250 Celebration
2026-07-03 17:00 - 2026-07-04 22:30 | Hoppel’s Arena, 40891 SR 518, Lisbon, OH, 44432, US
Experience the excitement, tradition, and patriotism of the 2026 Hoppel’s Championship Rodeo, “The Greatest Show on Dirt.” Celebrating its 41st year, this professional rodeo showcases all eight traditional rodeo events sanctioned by the IPRA and APRA, featuring top contestants from 18 states and 2 countries competing for championship titles.
Guests can expect two nights of heart-pounding rodeo action, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, breakaway roping, barrel racing, and the crowd-favorite bull riding. Beyond the arena, attendees can enjoy a variety of food and Western merchandise vendors, as well as family-friendly activities, including the Kids Calf Scramble during intermission.
As one of the few permanent outdoor rodeo arenas east of the Mississippi, Hoppel’s Arena offers a truly unique experience with beautiful hillside seating overlooking the arena’s natural bowl. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an authentic Western tradition under the Friday night lights. The event is held rain or shine.
The 2026 rodeo also serves as a celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary. Rodeo has long represented the values that helped build our nation: hard work, determination, courage, and a deep appreciation for freedom and tradition. Throughout the weekend, guests will experience a patriotic tribute to America’s semiquincentennial, honoring the nation’s history while celebrating the enduring spirit of the American West.
A highlight of the celebration is Operation Flags of Freedom, an impressive display of American flags lining the entrance and driveway to the rodeo grounds, creating a powerful tribute to our nation’s heritage and those who have served to protect it.
Friday, July 3, is Veterans Night, with free admission for all active-duty military personnel and veterans with proper identification. The evening honors the men and women who have served our country and celebrates their contributions to our freedom.
Saturday, July 4, continues the celebration with a special fireworks display following the rodeo performance, providing a fitting tribute to America’s 250th Anniversary and creating an unforgettable Independence Day experience. Advanced Tickets $15, Gate $20 Adult, $15 Children.
Whether you are a lifelong rodeo fan or attending for the first time, the 2026 Hoppel’s Championship Rodeo offers an unforgettable opportunity to celebrate America’s heritage while enjoying one of the region’s premier summer traditions.

Middletown Fireworks + Parade
2026-07-03 17:00 - 22:00 | Smith Park, Tytus and Verity Parkway, Middletown, OH, 45042, US
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with a parade and fireworks show in Middletown!

Red, White and Play - Family Game Night
2026-07-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Tipp City, S 2nd Street & 106 E Main St, Tipp City, OH, 45371, US
Celebrate community and summer entertainment in historic downtown Tipp City. North 2nd Street hosts a music series, while South 2nd Street becomes an interactive play zone with classic lawn games, relay challenges, sidewalk activities, and hands-on experiences.
Participating downtown businesses create interactive experiences both indoors and outdoors. The gathering emphasizes neighborly traditions and small-town values central to American heritage.
Free admission. Presented by Monroe Federal Savings and Loan, with community sponsors Mauk Cabinets by Design and Main Street Financial Group – Thrivent. Organized by Downtown Tipp City Partnerships.

All American Bash
2026-07-03 16:00 - 2026-07-04 23:00 | Voice of America Museum, 7050 VOA Park Drive, West Chester Township, OH, 45069, US
This Independence Day celebration features fireworks on July 4th alongside music, entertainment, and activities for families. West Chester partners with MetroParks of Butler County, the VOA Museum, and the USS Cincinnati Peace Pavilion to highlight the nation’s founding story and the township’s ongoing spirit of innovation.
The event includes special tours, historical presentations, live music, food vendors, and complimentary entertainment for all ages.

Red, White & Blue Block Party
2026-07-03 16:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Xenia, Downtown Xenia, Xenia, OH, 45385, US
The City of Xenia hosts this celebration in the historic downtown, coinciding with the annual Kevin Sonnycalb Memorial Fireworks Festival.
The event features FREE family-friendly entertainment throughout downtown, including live entertainment, interactive attractions, and activities for all ages. Food and beverage options are available along with special features and experiences that celebrate the spirit of Independence Day.
This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as we help kick off America 250, honoring 250 years of our nation’s history.

"Meet the Patriots" at Granville's Old Colony Burying Ground on July 3rd
2026-07-03 14:00 - 16:30 | Old Colony Burying Ground, 300 S Main St, Granville, OH, 43023, US
Granville’s historic cemetery contains graves of 23 American Revolution veterans—the third-largest collection in Ohio. On July 3rd, members of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), costumed in period military attire, will portray 11 veterans and recount their wartime experiences at headstones throughout the grounds.
Five re-enactors will be accompanied by Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) members portraying their spouses in historical dress. The event features children’s activities, patriotic merchandise, and photo opportunities with a George Washington portrayal. Self-guided tours with maps are available.
Rain date: July 5th. Starting Memorial Day weekend, headstones are decorated with patriotic bows and identification tags through July 4th.

Red, White & BOOM! Columbus | The Midwest's Largest Fireworks Festival
2026-07-03 10:00 - 22:30 | Scioto Mile, 233 S Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH, 43215, US
Celebrate Independence Day weekend at Red, White & BOOM!, the Midwest’s largest fireworks festival and one of Ohio’s most beloved summer traditions. Drawing more than 400,000 visitors each year, this iconic Columbus celebration brings together families, friends, and visitors from across the region for a full day of patriotic festivities.
Activities include a community parade, street festival, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and live musical entertainment. Fireworks begin at approximately 10:00 p.m. and last around 25 minutes. The event footprint spans 2.5 square miles including Bicentennial Park, Genoa Park, the Arena District, and riverfront areas. Free admission.
More information: redwhiteandboom.org

Happy Birthday USA!
2026-07-02 18:30 - 19:30 | Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, Rocky River, OH, 44116, US
Join us for a Birthday Party for the USA. Celebrate with games, books, music, crafts, and refreshments.
Featuring a traditional mountain dulcimer — sing along and take a turn learning to play it.
This event is free but requires registration.

Let Freedom BOOM!
2026-07-02 18:00 - 22:45 | Trenton Community Park, 440 Dell Dr, Trenton, OH, 45067, US
An unforgettable evening of entertainment, family fun, and patriotic pride. The event features a patriotic parade beginning at Edgewood Baptist Church and proceeding through local streets to Trenton Community Park.
Attendees can enjoy vendor booths, food trucks, beverages, live music performances, and free family activities for children. The evening culminates in a fireworks display.

Salute 250 ft. Post Malone, HARDY, & More
2026-07-02 17:00 - 23:00 | Historic Crew Stadium, 1 Black And Gold Blvd, Columbus, OH, 43211, US
A one-night-one concert celebrating America’s 250th birthday and saluting Veterans and active-duty service members, featuring performances by country superstars Post Malone and HARDY, a showcase of Nashville’s next round of up-and-coming artists hosted by Whiskey Jam, Veteran programming all night, and more. Ticket prices vary based on seating options.

Oxford Freedom Festival
2026-07-02 17:00 - 22:30 | Oxford Community Park, 6801 Fairfield Rd, Oxford, OH, 45056, US
Enjoy an Independence Day festival filled with games, inflatables, a live band, axe-throwing, horse carriage rides, vendors, food, ice cream, and more! End the day with a fabulous fireworks show!
