President Trump has vowed to make America’s 250th anniversary an epic celebration, and he took another step toward that goal this week by leaning into the world of sports. President Donald Trump last week outlined festivities the White House is planning for 2026 to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday, fulfilling his pledge to deliver what he has called “the most spectacular birthday party the world has ever seen.”
Trump, who frequently referenced the celebration during the 2024 campaign and compared it to historic world fairs, officially unveiled the event lineup on social media under the banner “Freedom 250.” The White House said the festivities will span more than two weeks, running from June 25 through July 10.
Planned events include a “Spirit of America” parade honoring fallen soldiers, a “Birthday Fireworks Celebration” on the National Mall that Trump promised would be the largest fireworks display in the world, and a “Great American State Fair” featuring pavilions from all 50 states. “Frankly, you’ll never see anything like it, and you’ll never see anything like it again,” Trump declared in his announcement video.
A regular attendee at major sporting events, the president also confirmed plans to launch what he called the “Patriot Games.” The four-day athletic competition will feature elite high school athletes, with one male and one female competitor representing each state and U.S. territory. Trump emphasized that the event would follow traditional gender divisions, reiterating his opposition to transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.
“All of this is just the beginning,” Trump said in the video. “2026 will be a celebration of America like no other.”
The White House described the anniversary as an opportunity to highlight American history, unity, and national pride on a scale rarely seen. While details are still being finalized, the administration has made clear that Freedom 250 is intended to be a defining cultural moment, blending patriotism, pageantry, and sport as the country marks a quarter-millennium since its founding.