Ashland Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday
Ashland, Ohio—The countdown is officially on for July 4, 2026, when the United States of America will celebrate its semi-quincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. All across our country communities will be commemorating this momentous occasion, and Ashland’s plans are already underway.
Heading up Ashland’s “America’s 250th Birthday Celebration Committee” are co-chairs Mayor Matt Miller and former Ashland County Historical Society Executive Director Jennifer Marquette. Other committee members include representatives from the County Commissioners office, Ashland County Historical Society, Ashland County Community Foundation, Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce, Ashland Main Street, and area business leaders.
“The people of Ashland County are a patriotic people. We love our great country, and we love the men and women who have sacrificed in so many different ways to secure our freedoms and build a strong nation,” said Mayor Miller. “We expect to have one heck of a spectacular birthday celebration for our great nation on July 4th—and we are looking forward to having outstanding participation from the people and families of our community.”
Ashland’s patriotic birthday celebration will be brought to us by the party’s lead sponsor, the Ashland Elks Lodge #1360. The day will kick off with a festive Independence Day parade throughout downtown Ashland—sponsored by the Ashland County Community Foundation—followed by the dedication of a new monument to freedom that will be installed at the soon-to-be Freedom Park in the Pump House District. The monument has been gifted to the City of Ashland by a generous donor who will be announced at the dedication event.
The birthday party will continue throughout the day at Freer Field where live bands and food trailers will be featured. Rounding out the day will be the annual Ashland Community Fireworks display—sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ashland—which will feature the largest fireworks display in Ashland’s history.
“Ashland County played an important part in America’s history. From the first Indigenous people who called our country home, to the people who live and work here today, we will celebrate their contributions in a grand way!” said Marquette.
Celebration updates, including parade registration details, and more will be made available through the America’s 250th Birthday Celebration page on the City of Ashland Facebook and the Explore Ashland website.
