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'Celebrate 250' Festival in Columbus continues

Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 1:05 PM

Courtesy-City of Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The weeklong "Celebrate 250" Festival, presented by the City of Columbus and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, continues through Saturday, July 4. 

It features themed daily events, family-friendly activities, and special programming across downtown Columbus and at the Columbus Municipal Airport. All events are free and open to the public.

Here is the midweek Celebrate 250 schedule in downtown Columbus:

  • Wednesday, July 1 - Star Spangled Kids Day (noon-8 p.m., 4th Street) - Where’s Waldo scavenger hunt, a dunk tank  supporting Turning Point, jump rope, sidewalk chalk, free treats, yoga for kids, hair tinsel, face painting, and crafts    
  • Thursday, July 2 - Historical Society Day (4-8 p.m., Bartholomew County Historical Society) - Explore Revolutionary‐era textile demonstrations, period music, children’s crafts, food and drink tastings from the era, and view a signed Declaration of Independence

Friday is the biggest day of America's birthday party as the "All-American Festival on Central" takes place from 2 to 10 p.m., featuring a carnival, music, sports, magic shows, aviation flyovers, and more. The evening ends with QMIX Musical Fireworks blasting off at 10.

The celebration week culminates on Saturday, July 4, with a Farmers' Market, an all-American parade, music, a hot dog-eating contest, and lots more fun.   

The full schedule of events for the week is available here.

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