President Donald Trump will visit Des Moines on July 3 for an event to kick off what he’s touted as a year of celebrations culminating in the United States’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026.
The event, hosted by America250, will include a “Salute to America” celebration and feature remarks from the president. The nonpartisan group, founded in 2016, also hosted the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary parade in Washington, D.C., in May.
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“This momentous gathering in the heartland signals the beginning of an extraordinary year ahead — one where America250 will unite our nation through events in every state and territory, culminating in the most monumental celebration our Country has ever known,” the organization said on its website.
Here’s everything you need to know about the event:
What is the event?
Trump has spoken about his hopes for a yearlong celebration of America’s 250th birthday, proposing the Iowa State Fair, which he has called the “Great American State Fair,” as the starting point.
“My hope is that the amazing people of Iowa will work with my administration to open up the legendary Iowa State Fairgrounds to host the Great American State Fair and welcome millions and millions of visitors from around the world to the heartland of America for this special one-time festival,” Trump said in a May 2023 video. “Together we will build it and they will come.”
Trump also mentioned coordination across state and local governments for a series of celebrations, saying he would work with governors of all 50 states for the “Great American State Fair” to “showcase the glory of every state in the union.”
“This event offers a unique opportunity for Americans to come together and celebrate the strength and rich values of our nation, forging lasting memories for generations to come,” America250 said on its website.
Trump’s July 3 visit to Iowa will mark his first trip to the state since January 2024, when he won the state’s caucuses.
Where and when is it?
The event is on July 3 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The preprogram begins at 5:00 p.m. CT, and Trump will give his remarks at 7:30 p.m. CT.
How can I attend?
The event is free and open to the public, but attendees must fill out an RSVP form on the America250 website. Guests are only allowed two tickets per phone number, and they are first-come, first-served, according to the organization.
What other events are being planned for this July 4?
The National Flag Foundation will continue its “Sojourn to 250,” a yearlong initiative to bring a U.S. flag to the 26 U.S. military cemeteries in 10 countries where U.S. soldiers and others who gave their lives are buried, according to the group’s website. The flag will then come back to the U.S. and travel across the country, ending its journey in the nation’s capital on July 4, 2026.
America250 is also holding a contest for students in grades 3-12 to share their perspective on what the U.S. means to them through art and essays. Winners will receive trips to iconic U.S. locations and landmarks.
Other states are also holding celebrations and initiatives. North Carolina will host various events, including “Becoming American: The Life, Service and Sacrifice of Colonel Edward Buncombe” on July 12, which will explore Buncombe’s story and how he “became American.” A “Walk250” exhibit in South Dakota will offer prizes to those who walk 250 miles by July 4, 2026.
What other events are being planned as part of the yearlong celebration?
America250 is hosting a series of events as part of its yearlong festivities, including a traveling tech expo focused on the nation’s most iconic innovations, a time capsule that will be buried in Philadelphia on the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and a national celebration on July 4, 2026.
Washington, D.C., is already preparing for some of those celebrations. In June 2026, the National Archives museum will host a three-day festival and tent, including musical performances, receptions, and family-friendly events. The National Gallery of Art will also host a block party the weekend of June 6. This will be the gallery’s “largest-ever public program,” including art-making, food, music, and film screenings.
The National Mall will host the Smithsonian’s 250th Festival from June 18 to July 12, 2026, to “reflect the nation’s cultural landscape, challenge assumptions and illuminate America’s town square.” The event will highlight many communities, cultural practices, occupations, and perspectives, according to Leisure Group Travel.
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The 250th anniversary will include a “Fourth of July Celebration” on the National Mall in 2026. The National Archives will host a reenactment of the Declaration of Independence, alongside musical performances, special guests, a parade, and a fireworks show. Another event that will be in Washington, D.C., is the “July 4th Spectacular on Penn Ave,” with interactive and immersive art and cultural activities.
New exhibitions in Smithsonian museums are also expected, with a new museum set to open beneath the Lincoln Memorial.