KNOXVILLE, TN (May 7, 2026) – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Visit Knoxville extends an invitation of celebration to the community and beyond with a wide range of fun activities and events across the City of Knoxville and Knox County related to America’s 250th Anniversary.

What is the 250th Anniversary?
The 250th anniversary of the United States, or Semiquincentennial, will be celebrated on July 4, 2026, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The nationwide commemoration, organized by America250, focuses on themes of reflection, honor, and looking forward. Celebrations across the nation aim to engage all 350 million Americans. 

How is the State of Tennessee celebrating?
Tennessee America 250 celebrates and commemorates America’s 250th Anniversary by interpreting and preserving the unique Tennessee stories, objects, landmarks, and places that have defined who we are as Tennessee Americans. Events and exhibitions are taking place statewide.

How are Knoxville and Knox County celebrating?
There are many events happening related to the 250th Anniversary. Included here is a select list of highlights, please access this link for a growing list of 250-related events on VisitKnoxville.com.

“As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation, the City of Knoxville and Knox County stand as a vibrant reminder of the history, culture, and community spirit that define America,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “We are proud to support our tourism partners and their commemorative events, all providing insight to the people and places that define our region and beyond.”

Media: Images here

City of Knoxville Main Event

  • Festival on the Fourth • July 4, 2026 • World’s Fair Park
    • Knoxville’s signature Independence Day tradition at World's Fair Park will take place on a monumental scale for 2026. This year’s festival serves as the official city-wide kickoff for the semiquincentennial, featuring a massive fireworks display, live symphonic music, and interactive history exhibits that honor East Tennessee's unique role in the American story. The free festival begins at 5PM and ends at approximately 10PM at the conclusion of the fireworks display. FREE

Knox County Main Event

  • America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration at the Cove • July 11, 2026 • The Cove at Concord Park
    • Following the initial holiday excitement, Knox County will host a community celebration at The Cove. This event is designed to be a "living history" experience, blending a classic summer park outing with a showcase of local history, community organizations, and family-friendly activities right on the water. Celebrate from 11–5PM with an expo and community activation, followed by a Concert at the Cove from 7–9PM, and concluding with fireworks. FREE

Town of Farragut (Farragut Parks & Recreation, the Farragut Museum, and Visit Farragut)

  • Farragut Museum History Hour Series
    • May 13, 2026 at 11AM • Pleasant Forest Cemetery Director Dave Stinton will offer a tour of Pleasant Forest Cemetery, which was established in 1796.  Please meet there for a History Hour on location, carpooling recommended.  Learn about the history of the cemetery and the people buried there including a revolutionary war soldier and Tennessee’s second Governor. FREE
    • June 23, 2026 at 11AM • Renowned author/speaker/podcaster Dr. Tim Holder will present on “The First Six Presidents.” FREE
  • Chalk the Plaza • May 16, 2026 from 11AM–4PM • Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza
    • A celebration of creativity, community, and fun. Enjoy delicious bites from food trucks, browse unique pieces from local art vendors, and let the little ones have a blast in the kids’ zone—all while watching talented artists transform the sidewalks into stunning masterpieces. This year’s theme is “The Natural Beauty of America.” FREE
  • Red, White & Bluegrass Summer Concert • June 13, 2026 from 6–9PM • Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza
    • Celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial with one of Tennessee’s oldest musical genres. FREE
  • Farragut Independence Day Parade • July 4, 2026 from 9:30AM–12PM • Kingston Pike/Stadium Drive to Boring Road
    • Annual Independence Day Parade with floats, dancers, bands, antique cars, and more, all to the America 250 theme of “Americana.” FREE
  • Admiral Farragut Birthday Party • July 8, 2026 at 6PM • Farragut Town Hall
    • Celebrate Farragut’s favorite admiral and listen to the national reading of the Declaration of Independence. FREE
  • Yacht Rock Concert • August 15, 2026 from 6–9PM • Mayor Ralph McGill Plaza
    • Visit Farragut hosts this end-of-summer bash with live music and food trucks. FREE
  • Farragut History Tour • August 20, 2026 from 9AM–1PM • Farragut Town Hall
    • Local historians offer perspectives on historic Farragut sites. This event includes a light lunch; pre-registration is required. FREE or Ticketed event
  • Art Fest • September 12, 2026 from 9-11AM • Farragut Community Center
    •  Families enjoy outdoor art activities with an America 250 theme of “A Tribute to America.” FREE
  • Our American Stories: Voices from Tennessee • Tuesdays–Saturdays, September 9 – October 15, 2026 from 11AM–2PM • Farragut Museum
    • This traveling exhibit from the Tennessee State Museum shares the stories of remarkable Tennesseans from throughout the state’s history. FREE

Standalone Events

  • Marsalis Swing Symphony • May 14–15, 2026 at 7:30PM • Tennessee Theatre
    • The Knoxville Symphony celebrates the close of its 90th anniversary season, Aram’s 10th season, and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States with a program celebrating musical and geographic American landscapes. Ticketed event
  • Statehood Day • May 29–30, 2026 from 12–5PM • Marble Springs State Historic Site
    • This year, in commemoration of America’s 250th and the 230th anniversary of Tennessee Statehood, Marble Springs is taking this celebration to the next level, and Statehood Day will now consist of two fun filled days. Friday May 29, from 12–5pm, will be Tennessee Field Day for children to explore state history through all aspects. Bring your inner child for hands on Tennessee history. Kids will receive a punch card and win a special prize for visiting all the amazing activities. Partners joining include Ijams Nature Center, Museum of Cherokee People, Birthplace of Country Music Museum, National Parks Service, Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, and more. Saturday, May 30, from 10AM-4PM, will be filled with demonstrations, guest lectures, music, dancing, food, and more in celebration of Statehood Day. FREE
  • Tennessee Valley Fair Kickoff to Summer • June 6, 2026 from 10AM–2PM •Chilhowee Park
    • Food, free inflatables, crafts, games, Touch-A-Truck, and more. FREE
  • Kid A’Riffic Fun in the Park Presented by Home Federal Bank • June 24, 2026 from 10AM–1PM • Hill Avenue between Hall of Fame and State Street
    • Event series for children age 2–12 offering hands-on crafts and activities provided by City of Knoxville departments and entities at a different park each week. For June 24, Kid A’Riffic will be partnering with Blount Mansion, James White's Fort, and East Tennessee History Center for some historic fun including some living history booths, games, and stories. Also, each will offer free admission to their museums as well as Women's Basketball Hall of Fame. Enjoy themed crafts and activities and some extra patriotic fun. FREE
  • America’s 250th Ice Cream Party • July 3, 2026 from 3-4PM • West Town Mall
    • A patriotic Ice Cream Party celebrating 250 years of the United States of America with festive activities, community fun, exciting giveaways, and complimentary Häagen-Dazs ice cream. FREE
  • 4th of July Celebration • July 4, 2026 at 10AM • James White’s Fort
    • The Knoxville Chapters of the Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Children of the Revolution honor the signers of the Declaration of Independence. FREE
  • Mighty Musical Monday • July 6, 2026 at 12PM • Tennessee Theatre
    • Noon organ concert featuring a patriotic theme with House Organist Freddie Brabson on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, joined by Tipton Station. FREE
  • Declaration: I Am Tennessee Launch & Reception • July 15, 2026 from 6:30–8:30PM • East Tennessee History Center
    • This TN 250 project is a partnership between Knoxville's poet laureate, Linda Parsons, the Knoxville Writers Guild, and the East Tennessee Historical Society. Thirty Knox County writers share how Tennessee has shaped them in the document being produced. Grant funding is provided by an agreement with the State of Tennessee administered by the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial. FREE
  • East Tennessee History Fair • August 15, 2026 from 9AM–4PM• East Tennessee History Center
    • Join us for the return of the East Tennessee History Fair to celebrate the Semiquincentennial. This day-long celebration will take place in and around the East Tennessee History Center and will include living history demonstrations, live music, crafts, film screenings, children’s activities, and more. FREE
  • Knox Writers Guild Monthly Meeting • September 3, 2026 at 7PM • Addison’s Bookstore
    • Monthly meeting where at least six readers/performers will present. FREE
  • Tennessee Valley Fair • September 11–20, 2026 with various hours • Chilhowee Park
    • Fairgoers take part in numerous activities on the fairgrounds including rides, live music, competitions, shows, food, actions sports, special events, and more. In celebration of America 250, the fair will include these new events: All-American Pig Racing, HogWild Cook-off, Local Brew Fest, and a Fair History Museum. Ticketed event
  • The Road to Knoxville Symposium: How Revolutionary War Veterans and Pioneers Claimed a New Land, Founded a New City, and Forged a New State on the Western Frontier • October 2, 2026 (time TBD) • East Tennessee History Center
    • This year provides a unique opportunity to engage the local community during the nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 1776 and the pivotal events during and after the Revolutionary War that led to the founding of Knoxville. The Knoxville History Project (KHP) will present a new look at the key events that unfolded and the key players who settled in this region during the mid-late 1700s when the landscape was rapidly transitioning. KHP will highlight a broader array of known characters, expanding the story beyond the usual list of government officials and settlers, who are typically associated with Knoxville’s founding story. Ticketed event

Ongoing Events, Series, and Exhibitions

  • TN 250 Museum Trail • Ongoing until December 31, 2026 • Museum of Appalachia
    • As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the Museum of Appalachia is joining the statewide Tennessee America 250 celebration by highlighting the people, objects, and stories that connect Tennessee to the broader American story. The TN 250 Museum Trail is a curated, self-guided experience woven throughout the Museum. It highlights a selection of artifacts across the grounds and exhibit buildings that reflect Tennessee’s role in shaping the country—through innovation, conflict, craftsmanship, and everyday life. Pick up a TN 250 guide in the Visitor Center upon arrival. Each stop corresponds to a featured artifact, allowing self-paced exploration. Ticketed event
  • A New Birth of Freedom Series • Mabry-Hazen House
    • May 30, 2026 from 10AM–3PM • Statehood Day
      Free tours; living historians will be on-site to share the historic house and grounds. FREE
    • June 19–20, 2026, Tours offered at 11AM/1PM/3PM on Friday and 11AM/1PM on Saturday • Juneteenth Tours: And Then I Became Free
      From self-liberation to the 13th Amendment, this tour explores the different methods enslaved people used to break down the oppressive institution of American chattel slavery and fought to gain personal liberty. FREE
    • July 4, 2026 from 5–10PM • Fourth of July on Mabry’s Hill
      Enjoy great views, good food and beer, live music, fun games, great company, and tours of the 1858 house museum. End the night watching Knoxville’s fireworks show. Ticketed event; on sale in June
    • August 8, 2026 with tours offered at 11AM/1PM/3PM • August 8th Emancipation Day Tours: And Then I Became Free
      From self-liberation to the 13th Amendment, this tour explores the different methods enslaved people used to break down the oppressive institution of American chattel slavery and gain personal liberty. FREE
  • “Lines Were Drawn: The Treaty of the Holston and its Legacy” Feature Exhibition • June 1, 2026–February 14, 2027 • East Tennessee History Center
    • The Treaty of the Holston was signed in 1791. This exhibition explores what led up to this event through historical evidence provided by rare 18th century maps. Then, on the occasion of the 250th Anniversary of the United States, the exhibition provides an opportunity to understand how historical events are remembered and commemorated. Ticketed event
  • Semiquincentennial Celebration Lecture Series • Blount Mansion, in partnership with The National Society of Colonial Dames Knoxville Town Committee
    • July 9, 2026 at 6PM • Doing History: Engaging with Revolutionary Stories in Classrooms and Museums
      Public historians and classroom educators are responsible for transferring the scholarship of historians into engaging and interactive exhibitions and programs. Curator of Education, Lisa Oakley, has 35 years of experience sharing the stories of Revolutionary and Early Statehood East Tennessee with students and the public. She will share interesting sources and stories from her years teaching with the East Tennessee Historical Society. $10 donation suggested
    • September 10, 2026 at 6PM • A Government of Laws and Not of Men The Structural Foundations of Constitutional Liberty
      This lecture by Dr. Josh Dunn of the University of Tennessee will explore the structural safeguards the Framers designed to protect liberty before the Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution. America’s most enduring defense of individual rights arises from this constitutional architecture that diffuses authority and restrains the abuse of power. As Alexander Hamilton wrote in Federalist 84 that, “the Constitution is itself, in every rational sense, and to every useful purpose, A BILL OF RIGHTS.” $10 donation suggested
    • November 12, 2026 at 6PM • Phillis Wheatley and the Black American Revolution
      Blount Mansion is proud to present Dr. Katy Chiles of the University of Tennessee. She will speak on “Phillis Wheatley and the Black American Revolution.” Phillis Wheatley was a Black poet enslaved in Boston during the American Revolution. This talk discusses how her poetry takes up the themes of liberty, freedom, and slavery and how she started the African American literary tradition. $10 donation suggested

ABOUT VISIT KNOXVILLE

Visit Knoxville (Knoxville Convention and Visitors Bureau) is the official CVB for the City of Knoxville and Knox County. Visit Knoxville is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, private company that works together with the community, business leaders, and local and state government to further develop Knoxville as a premier leisure, meetings, and travel destination. Tourism is the second highest grossing industry in the state of Tennessee. Knoxville/Knox County annually produces over $2 billion in travel spending. Visit Knoxville is also home to the VK Sports Commission, the VK Film Office, the Sunsphere Welcome Center & Observation Deck, and the Visitors Center at 301 S. Gay Street. For more information, go to visitknoxville.com and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

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Contact:
Kristen Combs
Director of Communications
Visit Knoxville
865.342.9127 o | 865.306.4641 c
kcombs@knoxville.org