News & Media
Stay up to date with the latest Freedom 250 announcements, national coverage, and event videos from across the country.
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Opening
Medora, ND
A historic event celebrating the enduring legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt, whose time in the North Dakota Badlands helped shape both his character and his vision for the nation. Set against the rugged landscape that inspired one of America’s greatest conservationists, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Celebration will honor Roosevelt’s commitment to stewardship of the land, public service, American leadership, and the pioneering spirit that defines our nation. The event will highlight Roosevelt’s profound impact on conservation, the creation of America’s national parks and public lands, and his belief that every generation has a responsibility to preserve the blessings of freedom and opportunity for those who follow. General Admission For those interested in attending, please register here. Apply for Media Credentials Media can apply for credentials HERE no later than 3:00 PM MDT / 5:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
America is Back: A Kick-off Celebration for the Great American State Fair
National Mall, Washington, DC
A patriotic opening ceremony launching the Great American State Fair and celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Washington, D.C., the event will feature military flyovers, ceremonial presentations, performances by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” Armed Forces choirs, and special musical performances by Lee Greenwood and Christopher Macchio. President Donald J. Trump will headline the celebration with remarks officially launching the Great American State Fair and kicking off a nationwide tribute to the people, traditions, history, and spirit that make America the greatest nation on Earth. Media RSVP HERE General Public RSVP HERE REGISTER TO ATTEND Starts at Wed, June 24, 2026 07:00 PM (US/Eastern) Doors Open: 03:30 PM Great American State Fair Main Stage 13th Street / National Mall Great American State Fair Main Stage Washington, DC 20004 Press Registration The Great American State Fair: A celebration that will transform the National Mall with state and territory pavilions celebrating all 56 states and territories, specialty exhibits, live performances, interactive experiences, and classic fair attractions. Educational exhibits and immersive digital experiences will bring the Story of America to life for guests of all ages. Public Operating Dates & Hours June 25–July 10, 2026 (daily) - Sunday–Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. - Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. - July 4th: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. We strongly recommend taking public transportation to the event. Plan your trip using the WMATA Trip Planner
National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories of Service
Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington, VA
Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories and Service Lit by the glow of candlelight on the sacred grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, veterans, military families, and historians will bring powerful stories of service and selflessness to life. Paired with moving musical performances—including selections sung by Gretchen Wilson—this evening of remembrance will honor the Americans who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Join Freedom 250 on Monday, May 25, 2026, for the Freedom 250 National Memorial Day Observance: An Evening of Stories and Service at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET, and the program begins at 8:30 p.m. ET. Held as part of America's 250th anniversary, this solemn, public, ticketed evening program will bring Americans together in remembrance of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. Set against the sacred grounds of Arlington, the candlelit program will feature storytelling, reflection, music, and patriotic tribute centered on themes of American grit, valor, and a life of service. Through personal and historically grounded narratives shared by veterans, historians, family members, and national security leaders, attendees will honor the lives and legacies of American heroes, including Medal of Honor recipient Captain Humbert "Rocky" Versace and U.S. Army Special Forces Captain Daniel W. Eggers. The evening will also include musical performances, featuring a special appearance by Grammy Award-winning country music artist Gretchen Wilson, whose music will help guide the program's moments of remembrance and reflection. This event will be a powerful national moment to honor the fallen, support military families, and reflect on the enduring cost of freedom. ## Event Details Date: Monday, May 25, 2026 Doors Open: 6:00 p.m. ET Program Begins: 8:30 p.m. ET Location: Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia Program Theme: An Evening of Stories of Service Featured Elements: Candlelight tribute, storytelling, remembrance, reflection, and musical performances Special Appearance: Gretchen Wilson Honored Profiles: Captain Humbert "Rocky" Versace and Captain Daniel W. Eggers