LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lexington is preparing an all-American Fourth of July celebration featuring patriotic concerts, races, parades and fireworks to mark America's 250th birthday, Mayor Linda Gorton announced.

"The Fourth of July is one of our city's favorite celebrations," Gorton said. "And I cannot think of a better way to honor our nation's 250th birthday than by bringing our entire community together to celebrate the freedoms, traditions, and spirit that unite us."

This year marks the 50th running of the Bluegrass 10,000, a tradition that began when a group of Lexington runners decided to race on Independence Day in 1976. For the first time, the race will offer a 5K option alongside the traditional 10K and one-mile fun run. The races will feature 6.2-mile and 3.1-mile foot courses as well as wheelchair divisions.

"For half of a century, the Bluegrass 10,000 has brought runners, wheelchair participants, families, and neighbors together," Gorton said. "It's especially fitting that this milestone race will be part of our celebration as we honor America's 250th birthday."

The Fourth of July parade will step off at noon and move down Main Street from Midland to Mill Street, followed by festivities at the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza featuring live music, children's activities, arts and crafts vendors, and food and beverage options.

New this year, the city will host a special sing-along to a filmed version of the Broadway musical Hamilton as part of its America 250 celebration activities on June 26. The Ice Cream Social at Henry A. Tandy Centennial Park will feature free cake and ice cream for all as part of a "Happy 250, America" birthday party celebration.

The city's Fourth of July fireworks will start at approximately 10 p.m. and will launch from R. J. Corman Railroad Group's railyard near the corner of Oliver Lewis Way and West Main Street, continuing a partnership that has made the downtown fireworks possible.