FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 25, 2026) – Gov. Andy Beshear invites Kentuckians to Kentucky Celebrates America250, a free, daylong celebration of American history and Kentucky heritage on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. EDT on the Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) campus in historic downtown Frankfort. The event will be followed by a fireworks finale set to music.
“Our nation's 250th birthday is a great opportunity to come together as Americans and celebrate the values that unite us, and the people and stories that have shaped our nation and our commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “From history to live music to family activities and fireworks, this event offers something for everyone.”
Beginning at 10 a.m., guests can explore KHS’s Martin F. Schmidt Research Library, Commonwealth Hall, the Keeneland Gallery, the Old State Capitol grounds and the Capital Plaza Hotel Green Space. Highlights throughout the day include:
- Live music performances, including Walker Montgomery, Kentucky Blue, the Louisville Orchestra, Dr. Everett McCorvey and Ben Sollee;
- Kids’ activities in the Cralle Day Garden, including games, giant checkers, Jenga, cornhole and free hot dogs (while supplies last);
- Tours of downtown landmarks and historic cemeteries;
- Keeneland Gallery talks on Daniel Boone, the Burgoyne Cannon and the Weight of Old Glory;
- Special exhibition tours of A Kentucky Journey and Civil War Governors of Kentucky;
- An Oral History Listening Booth, a free copy of the Register of the Kentucky Historical Society and a scavenger hunt;
- Hands-on History Passports for collecting stamps across all activity stations;
- Quill-and-ink signings of a replica Declaration of Independence;
- Kentucky Corps of Longriflemen firing demonstrations; and
- Gallery talks on topics ranging from the Civil War to Kentucky fashion; and
- Chautauqua Performances featuring Henry Clay, Charlotte Dupuy, Abraham Lincoln and Loretta Lynn.
For the event lineup and more information, visit history.ky.gov.
Attendees are encouraged to start their July 4 weekend on Friday, July 3, in downtown Frankfort at the Liberty Hall America250 Music Festival. Details are available at visitfrankfort.com.
About the Kentucky Historical Society
The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) campus has three sites in historic downtown Frankfort: the Old State Capitol, the Kentucky Military History Museum and the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, which serves as KHS headquarters and includes a signature museum, library & research center, object & archival collections, museum store and more. KHS is an agency within Kentucky’s Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, a Smithsonian Affiliate and holds full accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums.
About America250KY/Kentucky Sestercentennial Commission
The Kentucky Sestercentennial Commission was established to plan and implement events leading up to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Kentucky commissioners consult on the multifaceted statewide commemorations reflecting Kentucky’s role in the United States of America’s first 250 years. The commission is administered by the Kentucky Historical Society. More information can be found at history.ky.gov/america250ky.