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Weeklong 'Celebrate 250' festival in Columbus starts Monday

Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 10:40 AM

Courtesy-City of Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The City of Columbus is partnering with Red Arch Community Events, Inc., to present "Celebrate 250," a weeklong festival marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. 

It starts on Monday at 4 p.m. and runs through July 4, featuring themed daily events, family-friendly activities, and special programming across downtown Columbus and at the Columbus Municipal Airport. All events are free and open to the public

Friday is the biggest day of America's birthday party as the "All-American Festival on Central" takes place from 2 to 10 p.m., featuring a carnival, music, sports, magic shows, aviation flyovers, and more. The evening ends with QMIX Musical Fireworks blasting off at 10.

The big week culminates on Saturday, July 4, with a Farmers' Market, an all-American parade, music, a hot dog-eating contest, and lots more fun.   

Here is the early-week Celebrate 250 schedule and highlights:

  • Monday, June 29 - American Revolution Day (4-8 p.m., 4th Street) - The Daughters of the American Revolution lead hands‐on activities, including make‐and‐take toys, fabric dolls, and whirlygigs; and a giant 1776‐style American flag banner will be available for photos
  • Tuesday, June 30 - Tea Day (1-8 p.m., old Sears lot) - Tea Day replaces the monthly food‐truck festival, featuring 250 Celebrate 250 tea bags, a downtown vendor market, and activities hosted by Hotel Indigo

The full schedule of events for the week is available here.

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