Team Kentucky to host America250 July 4 celebration in downtown Frankfort
FRANKFORT, Ky. — State officials will host a free, family-friendly America250 celebration in downtown Frankfort to honor the nation's 250th anniversary through history, music, activities and fireworks.
The Kentucky Sestercentennial Commission, in partnership with the City of Frankfort and Franklin County, will host a statewide televised event featuring nationally recognized entertainers, a Grammy award-winning symphonic orchestra, and Kentucky's Poet Laureate at the Kentucky State Capitol. The celebration, which includes activities on both July 3 and July 4, 2026, comes as the nation prepares to mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
On July 3, the America250 Music Festival will run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. across the Kentucky Historical Society campus and downtown Frankfort, featuring genealogy workshops, gallery talks on topics ranging from the Civil War to Kentucky fashion, and guided tours through historic cemeteries and downtown landmarks. The evening culminates with bluegrass music from Kentucky Blue, a mainstage performance by Walker Montgomery, and The Louisville Orchestra.
The evening celebration features Dr. Everett McCorvey singing the National Anthem and "America the Beautiful," and Ben Sollee performing "My Old Kentucky Home," followed by orchestral selections and a grand fireworks finale. Governor Andy Beshear will give welcoming remarks.
Organizations such as the Veteran Resource Center of Frankfort, Quilts of Valor, and Capital City Museum will participate in the celebration. All daytime activities are free and open to the public.