Committee outlines parade, stages and statewide exhibits for America 250 celebrations

Committee leaders and agency officials outlined a multi-part plan to turn July 4 into a full day of America 250 celebration at the Capitol, linking an expanded parade to performances and exhibits on the Capitol grounds.

Secretary McGrane described a plan to have the parade proceed down Capitol Boulevard to Andrews Park, then stage a Capitol-grounds celebration with a smaller stage on the Capitol steps and a larger stage in Andrus Park, food trucks and vendor areas, and a state-owned float that could be disassembled and reused for future events. "The parade will begin... coming down Capitol Boulevard headed to Andrews Park," Secretary McGrane said, describing how floats would line the perimeter so the public could view them up close.

The plan calls for a 60/40 cost split on shared logistical items (parade organizers covering 60 percent, the state 40 percent), and identified Valiant Productions and other vendors to provide stages and performers. Secretary McGrane noted ongoing discussions with state risk management about insurance requirements and emphasized the need to determine who signs production contracts and who administers project-management services.

Deputy Secretary of State Matthew Reibert described the Foundations of Freedom tour: an 1833 reprint of the Declaration of Independence and other family artifacts will travel to communities statewide to support civic education and local exhibits. "It is an original reprint of the Declaration of Independence from 1833... taking this document on tour around the state to help educate," Reibert said.

Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton highlighted America 250 programming in state parks, including the Move250 initiative to encourage residents to travel 250 miles in 2026 with commemorative stickers and volunteer-driven events across the park system.

Committee members expressed enthusiasm but emphasized the need for a near-term meeting to finalize contracts, insurance, and logistics so scheduled performances and bookings do not fall through. The committee agreed to meet in early February for a targeted planning session.