(This article by Colorado-based writer Judy Christie originally appeared in the June 2025 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

For Pennsylvania, “the birthplace of American democracy” is not just a phrase but a way of life. The state has an online clock counting down the days to epic celebrations surrounding July 4, 2026 — including salutes to veterans, international sporting events, patriotic music, and fireworks.

“There will be plenty of things for visitors to do that day, before, and after,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA and a Pennsylvania native who loves talking about her home state. “I would just like to say, our arms are open here. We want to welcome visitors to see this commonwealth. From Jan. 1, 2026, until Dec. 31, 2026, we have a full year of events. This commonwealth, as a whole, has so much history throughout.”

The state also has plans for the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army, established June 14, 1775, and the U.S. Marine Corps, established Nov. 10, 1775, in Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, a site being replicated in the Old City District of Philadelphia.

Sports fans will have a chance to witness world-class events as part of the semiquincentennial, with each event tied to the celebration. The 2026 NFL draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. And in May, Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square will host its second PGA Championship.

From June 14 to July 4, Lincoln Financial Field will host six matches of the FIFA World Cup 26, including a knockout-stage fixture. The 2026 MLB All-Star Game and Home Run Derby will take place July 13-14 in Philadelphia at Citizens Bank Park.

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While Philadelphia is the centerpiece, the birthday party for America will hit the road and showcase five regions of the state with a “Welcome, America” concert featuring top-tier talent and regional food, fireworks, and a mobile experiential unit with interactive screens, story booths, games, and a festival atmosphere.

The first concert – May 23, 2026, during Memorial Day weekend – in State College will honor members of the military and their families. Plans are underway to give commemorative gifts to 2,500 of those who served our country and check in on-site for the festivities. Other concerts dates are June 6 in Erie; June 13 in the Harrisburg-Hershey area; June 20 in Wilkes-Barre; June 27 in Pittsburgh’s Point State Park; and July 4 in Philadelphia.

“The concert will be the big event in Philly,” Coleman said, and “the Philadelphia Historic District will be buzzing all summer.”

To sign up for regional festivals and to learn of events as they are scheduled, visit America250pa.org. And see VisitPA.com for famous historical sites, including Carpenters’ Hall — the 1774 home of the First Continental Congress — and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both signed.

Something Extra: While apple might be the best-selling pie in America, don’t miss the famous molasses shoo-fly pie at Dutch Haven in Ronks.