PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — While eyes will be on Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, to ring in the nation’s 250th, celebrations will be held statewide — not just to mark the birth of American democracy, but also Pennsylvania’s role in its history.
“Pennsylvanians didn't just witness history. We drove it. We shaped this nation. We changed the world. And we're not done yet,” said America250 Pennsylvania Executive Director Cassandra Coleman.
On the events lineup is a Liberty Tree planting in all 67 counties with trees propagated and descended from the original Liberty Tree; the Keystone Classroom Initiative, a story telling and visitation program that brings the state’s history to life; Bells Across PA, with fiberglass bells in every county to reflect unique aspects of the community; and special Veteran’s Day events.
“This is more than a birthday party,” said America250 Pennsylvania co-chair Mark Schweiker. “This is a massive civics lesson that we're trying to endow and inspire about what it means to be free people.”
Schweiker, the former governor and Bucks County native, says when done right, not only will the whole country pay attention, but the entire world will.