Celebrating America 250 in the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos
The Lehigh Valley and the Poconos have a rich connection to America's story, and communities across our region are helping commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary with a variety of special events throughout 2026. Whether you're interested in history, arts and culture, family activities, or patriotic celebrations, there are many opportunities to take part in America 250 close to home. Below are several events currently planned throughout our region.
Fireworks Across Our Region
As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, communities throughout the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos are hosting fireworks displays and Independence Day celebrations. Click here for a full list of local celebrations and fireworks displays
Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party
June 11 – July 19, 2026
SteelStacks | Bethlehem
ArtsQuest's Lehigh Valley SoccerFest & Viewing Party returns for a month-long celebration of the world's biggest sporting event. Building on more than a decade of FIFA World Cup™ watch parties, the festival will feature live broadcasts of every match on giant screens throughout SteelStacks, creating an exciting and family-friendly atmosphere for fans of all ages.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Live match broadcasts throughout the tournament
- Large outdoor viewing areas
- Family-friendly activities
- Food and beverage vendors
- Interactive experiences and entertainment
On the Road to Freedom: American Independence & Innovation
June 24 – October 11, 2026
America On Wheels Museum | Allentown
America On Wheels Museum is commemorating America's 250th anniversary with a special exhibition exploring the pioneering spirit, innovation, and independent drive that helped shape the nation's automotive history.
The exhibition highlights legendary independent manufacturers including Hudson, Studebaker, Packard, and Nash, showcasing vehicles and stories that illustrate America's tradition of ingenuity and entrepreneurship.
Revolution Retold: Commemorating American Independence in Art and Design
June 25 – October 18, 2026
Allentown Art Museum | Allentown
This exhibition explores how artists and designers have interpreted the American Revolution from 1826 through the present day.
Featuring everything from decorative arts and textiles to contemporary prints and visual media, Revolution Retold examines how generations of Americans have remembered, celebrated, and reimagined the nation's founding story.
I Sing America 250
July 1, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.
Palmerton Area Library | Palmerton
Musician and historian Dr. Roger Latzgo presents a musical journey through 250 years of American history, blending live performances, storytelling, and historical interpretation.
The program explores music from the colonial era through the rise of American industry, ragtime, and jazz while highlighting the Lehigh Valley's own musical heritage.
Admission is free and open to the public.
Liberty Ignited: A Lehigh Valley Salute to America 250
July 3, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.
Coca-Cola Park | Allentown
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs will host one of the region's signature America 250 celebrations with Liberty Ignited, a large-scale patriotic spectacle featuring a choreographed drone show and fireworks display.
Programming will include:
- A drone light show featuring at least 250 drones
- Patriotic imagery synchronized to music
- Family-friendly entertainment
- The largest fireworks display in Coca-Cola Park history
Star-Spangled Nights at Dorney Park
July 4–5, 2026
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom | Allentown
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with two nights of patriotic entertainment and fireworks at Dorney Park.
The event will feature:
- Special holiday programming
- Patriotic entertainment
- Red, white, and blue festivities
- Fireworks displays
Raise a Glass to Freedom: 250 Years Later
July 8, 2026 | 11:45 a.m.
Sigal Museum | Easton
Join the Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society for a special program commemorating the first public readings of the Declaration of Independence, which took place in Easton, Philadelphia, and Trenton on July 8, 1776.
The event will include:
- Premiere screening of a special Declaration of Independence presentation
- Historical interpretation and commentary
- A commemorative champagne toast
- An exclusive curator-led tour of the exhibition Read This: The History of Media in Northampton County
This program offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the founding of our nation while celebrating Easton's important role in American history.