America 250-Ohio 2025

HISTORY IN VIEW

Ohio’s Painted Murals and Barns

Celebrate America’s 250th

Ohio’s walls and barns have become canvases to recognize America’s 250th anniversary. Through Murals Across Ohio, all 88 counties will have the opportunity to tell the story of Ohio — past, present and future — through public art. These murals, like the one shown below at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, capture historical milestones, celebrate unique cultures and envision a brighter tomorrow. Read more about Murals Across Ohio on page 17 and view a map of mural locations on America250-Ohio.org/Murals-Map.

Five barns in every region of the state were painted to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, including the Rice Family Barn, shown on the cover, located in Wayne County on U.S. Route 250. The history of the farm stretches nearly as long as the county’s history. The family moved to the land in 1818, with seventh-generation owner Joe Rice and grandchildren living there now. They still have the deed signed by President James Monroe. Ohio muralist Scott Hagan, also known as the Barn Artist, painted all five barns. He also helped celebrate Ohio’s bicentennial in 2003 by painting barns in all 88 counties.

Rice Family Farm barn on U.S. Route 250 in New Pittsburg was painted to honor America’s 250th anniversary.

PHOTO BY GABE LEIDY

Celebrating America 250-Ohio

Todd Kleismit fondly recalls getting swept up in America’s bicentennial during the summer of 1976. As the nation celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, patriotic displays like commemorative coins and fire hydrants painted red, white and blue captured the imagination of the then-6-year-old Dayton native.

“It was a unifying event — an opportunity to bring people together,” says Kleismit, executive director of the Ohio Commission for the U.S. semiquincentennial, also known as America 250-Ohio.

The primarily state-funded commission was created by legislation in 2022 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American Independence and Ohioans’ contributions to the history of the United States through events and more.

“It can be a time to reflect about the United States of America writ-large and our place in it in this time,” Kleismit says. “I’m confident the country and Ohio are well prepared to embrace that opportunity.”

The celebration kicks off in earnest beginning in January 2026 and will stretch beyond July 4, 2026, through the end of the year. Each month will have a theme and key experiences, such as tourism trails and festivals, and all our state’s 88 counties will take part.

“Ohio is taking this opportunity to celebrate very seriously, and we really want to showcase what Ohio and Ohioans have contributed to the United States of America,” Kleismit says.

Opportunities to take part in the celebration include events such as Ohio Goes to the Movies, a 250-day movie festival that honors Ohio’s impact on filmmaking, as well as commission-provided homecoming kits to encourage Ohioans to organize picnics, block parties and more next summer.

According to Kleismit, more than 300 Ohio communities have passed their own resolutions and formed local committees to participate in America 250-Ohio events or create their own activities. While America 250-Ohio will be leading many events and participating in nationwide efforts, a lot of things will be happening on the local level.

“That’s the biggest opportunity for people to get plugged in,” Kleismit says. “Bringing people together is such a large part of what we’re trying to do.”

The arrival of 2026 brings a wealth of opportunities to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States and to connect with how Ohio shaped our nation.

Air & Space Trail

LEARN HOW OHIOANS, FROM THE WRIGHT BROTHERS ONWARD, HELPED THE WORLD TAKE FLIGHT.

From taking flight to escaping our atmosphere, the stories of those who helped defy the bounds of gravity are woven into Ohio’s history. America 250-Ohio’s Air & Space Trail spans more than 40 sites that highlight Ohioans’ contributions to aviation and space exploration, from the Wright brothers’ groundbreaking invention to astronaut Neil Armstrong’s giant leap for mankind.

From large museums to small historic sites, the locations along the Air & Space Trail also highlight bits of history you might not know, like how automobile technology helped with breakthroughs in airplane engine development or the stories of pilots from our state who helped defend the nation during wartime. Since the dawn of the space program, 25 astronauts have hailed from Ohio, and more than 550 companies that support aerospace manufacturing are in operation across the state today. The Air & Space Trail invites Ohioans to explore that rich heritage and learn how these stories form an interconnected tapestry that began with aviation’s first steps and now encompasses work being done to take us deeper into space. From the boyhood home of an American hero to our capital city’s beloved science center, these spots offer a glimpse of what the Air & Space Trail offers.

Armstrong Air & Space Museum

Neil Armstrong achieved worldwide fame when he set foot on the surface of the moon on July 20, 1969, but his beginnings are rooted in Wapakoneta. The Armstrong Air & Space Museum, which was completed in 1972 and built to resemble a futuristic moon base, tells his story by way of exhibits and artifacts, including his Gemini 8 capsule and a moon rock from the Apollo 11 mission. armstrongmuseum.org

Wright Brothers National Museum at Carillon Historical Park

Dayton inventors Wilbur and Orville Wright were selftaught engineers who created one of history’s most magnificent engineering marvels —the first manned, powered, controlled, heavier-than-air flying machine.

See the original 1905 Wright Flyer III, the world’s first practical airplane in which the Wrights truly taught themselves how to fly. Other artifacts include two bicycles built by Wilbur and Orville Wright. daytonhistory.org

COSI

Experience the excitement of space travel through interactive exhibits. Discover the Kathy Sullivan Experience, honoring the first American woman to walk in space and her leadership in science education. Explore the John Glenn Experience, with a replica of the Freedom 7 capsule and authentic astronaut training artifacts. These exhibits celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of two Ohio-born pioneers and offer a handson journey into space exploration. cosi.org

Historical Aircraft Squadron

Founded in 1994 and housed in a hangar at the Fairfield County Airport, the Historical Aircraft Squadron invites visitors to explore wartime history by way of restored aircraft and other military vehicles as well as authentic uniforms and equipment. The Library and Research Center houses books and videos for those seeking a deeper exploration of aircraft history. The hangar also houses a restoration facility where dedicated volunteers work to restore historic aircraft and other vehicles. historicalaircraftsquadron.org

John & Annie Glenn Museum

John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth in February 1962 when his Friendship 7 capsule was launched into space. Explore Glenn’s life of service at the John & Annie Glenn Museum housed within Glenn’s boyhood home in New Concord, the town where he and his wife grew up. Tours showcase artifacts from Glenn’s childhood and career and offer insight into his early life. johnandannieglennmuseum.org

Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum

From the streets to the skies, Ohio has long been a center of transportation, and this museum in Cleveland’s University Circle showcases northeast Ohio’s role. Part of the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Cleveland History Center and founded in 1965, the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum displays a nationally lauded collection of more than 160 antique automobiles, 14 airplanes and other vehicles that tell the story of the evolution of transportation. wrhs.org

Q& A

Tim Epperhart PRESIDENT OF BUTLER COUNTY WARBIRDS

Tim Epperhart has been flying planes for over 30 years, and his enthusiasm for aviation hasn’t dwindled. Although he takes to the skies less frequently now, the president of Butler County Warbirds oversees a museum in Middletown that holds a collection of historic aircraft and over 2,600 artifacts.

What inspired you to become a pilot? I fell in love with airplanes when I was about 6 years old. On a family trip to Lake Erie, we took a plane ride to one of the islands … Then, the ride back to the mainland was on a ’28 Ford Trimotor. … It was big, loud, it shook, it rattled, it smelled. It did everything an airplane needed to do.

Why is the mission of Butler County Warbirds so important to you? It goes back to me falling in love with World War II aviation back when I was a kid. … These guys gave so much, and then when they were done, they just came home and went back to work on the farm. … These people deserve to be remembered.

Why do you think that aviation history resonates with people so strongly? People need heroes and people to look up to as role models. When you have someone like that, it motivates you to be better. That’s how it works for me.

For more, visit bcwarbirds.com.

At first glance, Toledo is Ohio’s fourth-largest city, perched on the edge of Lake Erie and built on a foundation of thriving glass and automotive industries. But look closer—and a different story emerges. This is a city on the rise, where revitalization isn’t just a buzzword, but a movement fueled by resilience, Midwestern hospitality, and an unwavering drive to keep going.

Toledo surprises you in the best ways. Its cultural institutions are world-renowned, its park system award-winning, and its culinary scene bold, diverse, and delightfully unexpected. No matter the season, Toledo welcomes visitors with a spirit that feels instantly familiar. It’s a place designed for effortless exploration, where everything is closer—making it easy to spend more time experiencing and less time navigating. From vibrant performing and visual arts to hidden culinary gems, every visit feels both adventurous and deeply connected.

Whether it’s your first visit or you have lived here for years, Toledo offers something rare: a destination that invites connection, and fuels curiosity.

This is Toledo. Experience it for yourself.

Celebrate America’s 250th in the Heart of Nature—Hocking Hills, Ohio

Step into history and wonder in Hocking Hills during America’s 250th celebration. Hike ancient trails, explore breathtaking caves, and gather around campfires beneath starlit skies. With charming cabins, scenic byways, and rich heritage, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with the spirit of America— past and present. Make your milestone moment unforgettable in Ohio’s natural crown jewel.

1-800-Hocking

ExploreHockingHills.com

Creativity Trail

EMBRACE ART, FROM FAMOUS PAINTINGS TO ROCK-STAR RIFFS, ALONG THIS ROUTE.

OLearn more about the Creativity Trail here!

hioans have also been innovators in the arts, be it bringing rock ’n’ roll to the masses or launching America’s studio glass art movement. From painters and sculptors to musicians and cartoonists, our state has long been a place where creativity abounds. America 250-Ohio’s Creativity Trail spans more than 100 sites, where travelers can explore the arts across six different categories: Visual Arts, On the Page, Music, Glass & Pottery, Carousels, and Folk & Traditional Arts. The collection of stops works together to highlight the multitude of ways that Ohioans have contributed to the arts, not just locally but across the country and around the globe.

The trail can be explored by genre or region. Focus on the art of carousels, for example, and travelers soon learn that the Buckeye State boasts one of the United States’ largest collections of the iconic amusement ride. Or instead opt for a multimedia exploration of a particular region of Ohio to see how the communities within it have contributed to Ohio’s vibrant arts tradition. These destinations are just a sampling of the inspiring arts destinations that are part of this trail.

Visit this hallowed hall where legendary rockers from AC/DC to ZZ Top are celebrated every day. Designed by architect I.M. Pei, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has been bringing visitors to Cleveland since 1995. Although the museum is filled with artifacts that tell the stories of the musicians honored here, there are also handson experiences like The Garage, which offers the chance to jam and gives visitors the rock-star treatment. rockhall.com

Carousels: Merry-Go-Round Museum

Because Ohio boasts one of the nation’s largest number of carousels, it makes sense that the MerryGo-Round Museum is found here, too. Housed in a former post office building in Sandusky, the museum has enchanted visitors since 1990. It shares the woodcarving artistry behind carousels and offers the chance to take a spin on a full-size indoor carousel with figures from the museum’s collection and private collectors. merrygoroundmuseum.org

Folk & Traditional Arts: The Dairy Barn Arts Center

Housed in a renovated barn in the college town of Athens, The Dairy Barn Arts Center opened in 1978 and a year later first hosted the Quilt National, a biennial tradition that still happens here today. The center has three galleries that host contemporary art exhibits, and it serves as a creative resource for the community, offering classes and workshops across a variety of mediums. dairybarn.org

On the Page: Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

Located on The Ohio State University campus in Columbus, this research library and small museum houses a collection of comics and cartoons that spans 300,000 original works and 2.5 million newspaper comic strips and pages. (It’s named after the Chillicothe native who drew editorial cartoons for The Columbus Dispatch.) The museum hosts special exhibitions related to the art of cartoons and comics. cartoons.osu.edu

Glass & Pottery: Rookwood Pottery

Rookwood Pottery has been operating in Cincinnati since 1880 and is still there today in the city’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Visitors can take a factory tour to learn about the long legacy of this handmade pottery that has been a favorite for generations. Rookwood Pottery offers hands-on workshops for visitors, and the company’s on-site factory store provides an opportunity to take a piece of Cincinnati history home. rookwood.com

Visual Arts: Toledo Museum of Art

The Toledo Museum of Art opened in 1901, and this free museum provides a beautiful showcase of art spanning the globe. The museum is currently undergoing its first major gallery reinstallation in over 40 years, which will result in a chronological presentation that tells a fuller story of human creativity. The Glass Pavilion shares the story of studio glass art and features glass-blowing demonstrations in its on-site studio. toledomuseum.org

Del Ray Grace

FOUNDER OF SACRED STEEL MUSIC & HISTORY MUSEUM

At the age of 12, Toledo native Del Ray Grace discovered a musical style known as Sacred Steel at his local church. Featuring stringed instruments, including the steel guitar, the style originated in the Church of the Living God during the 1930s. Today, Grace, founder of the Sacred Steel Music & History Museum in Toledo, preserves its legacy.

Why did you decide to create a museum dedicated to Sacred Steel music? I was determined not to leave this Earth with this story inside of me. I think it’s a story that’s never been told and needed to be told.

What has the community’s response to the museum been?

I’ve been really excited about the interest in it. … I’ve been here all my life, and there’s a great number of people who never heard of Sacred Steel. We used to play around town, here and there, all the time, but generations have changed.

What role does music play in the museum experience?

You got people who just love to hear the music and you have other people who want to know what makes these guys tick — the story behind the musician or the story behind the tradition.

For more, visit sacredstrings.com/ssmhm.

Lake Erie to Ohio River Trail

DISCOVER HOW RIVERS, CANALS AND OUR GREAT LAKE SHAPED OUR STATE.

Before the United States took to the rails, skies and highways, our waterways were how people and goods reached far-off places. Many Ohio towns trace their roots to the roles they played in Great Lakes shipping or their connection to the canal systems that opened the interior of the state to trade during the 19th century.

America 250-Ohio’s Lake Erie to Ohio River Trail has over 150 stops that celebrate how Ohio’s waterways contributed to the evolution of the state. It spans lighthouses, canal locks, maritime museums and other destinations that have a tie to our rivers, canals and Lake Erie. These waterways were not just integral to the development of Ohio. They also helped support westward expansion and were vital to the success of abolitionists who helped freedom seekers make their way to freedom in Canada along Ohio’s portion of the Underground Railroad.

Those who explore America 250-Ohio’s Lake Erie to Ohio River Tr of the people and places that shaped our nation. These destinations along the route offer a flavor of the rich history found at sites recognized as part o

This museum in Toledo highlights the impact the Great Lakes have had in shaping the United States. From fur trading done by water in the 17th century to the modern ships that cross the Great Lakes today, the story is a long and rich one.

Explore more than 300 artifacts and interactive exhibits year-round, and step aboard the 617-foot Col. James M. Schoonmaker freighter that is docked outside from May 1 through Oct. 31. nmgl.org

Monticello III Horse-Drawn Canal Boat Rides

A trip to Roscoe Village whisks visitors back to the heyday of the Ohio & Erie Canal. Summer visitors can even experience a ride aboard the Monticello III, a horse-drawn canal boat that floats down a restored section of the Ohio & Erie Canal. Two draft horses, Tim and Diesel, pull the boat from the towpath as the captain shares details of life along the canal in the 1830s. visitcoshocton.com

Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse

Shining a light over Lake Erie from 1825 to 1925, the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse started as a 30-foot beacon beside the lake. The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1871 into the 60-foot-tall structure travelers can visit today. Climb the 69 steps to the top for spectacular Lake Erie views. The on-site museum, which was founded in 1945, shares the stories of the lighthouse and Great Lakes maritime history. fairportharborlighthouse.org

Magee Marsh

The marshland along Lake Erie draws scores of visitors each May for the Biggest Week in American Birding, a time during which brightly colored warblers and other bird species descend on the area as part of their spring migration. Spanning 2,202 acres just north of Oak Harbor, Magee Marsh has an accessible boardwalk that provides a perfect vantage point for bird-watching, while the visitor center offers insightful exhibits and information. ohiodnr.gov

John Rankin House

Explore Ohio’s connection to the Underground Railroad at the John Rankin House, located along the Ohio River in the village of Ripley. It is estimated that more than 2,000 freedom seekers passed through the Rev. John Rankin’s home on their journey along the historic network. Today, visitors can take a tour of the 1825 Rankin home and learn how the home’s owner contributed to the abolitionist movement. ohiohistory.org

Historic Fort Steuben & Scenic Byway Visitor Center

Step into Ohio’s early frontier days at Historic Fort Steuben, a reconstructed 18th-century fort that protected government surveyors mapping the Northwest Territory. Located just above the banks of the Ohio River, the Visitor Center features exhibits on river navigation and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, whose early journey passed through the Ohio River Valley. oldfortsteuben.com

Q& A

Brewster Rhoads

CHAIR OF OHIO RIVER WAY

Since moving to Cincinnati in 1980, Brewster Rhoads has been paddling the Ohio River — sometimes more than 250 days a year. He founded the Ohio River Paddlefest and the Great Ohio River Swim and serves as chair of the Ohio River Way, an organization that promotes recreation on the Ohio River.

How do you help people find their personal connection to the Ohio River? What we’ve done with the Ohio River Way and with Ohio River Paddlefest is give people a personal experience. We help make the river accessible and bust the myths that keep people away from using it.

The Ohio River Way was recently designated as a National Water Trail. Why is that designation important? It’s a reason for people to live in our region, and it’s a way to attract visitors and potential new residents by celebrating this beautiful river. The designation was tremendously gratifying. It’s a lifetime accomplishment.

Why do you think it’s important to encourage people to connect with the river?

We’re basically giving people an opportunity to have a personal experience with the Ohio River, after which most people say, “Wow, I had no idea the Ohio River was so beautiful.” You learn more by doing something than by reading about it.

For more, visit ohioriverway.org.

AKRON

As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, make your own pilgrimage through the stories that shaped our nation.

SUMMIT COUNTY

• Explore the natural beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio’s only national park, and home to the stunning Brandywine Falls, a 60-foot cascading waterfall.

• Step back in time at the Akron History Center and learn how Akron began. Experience three floors of exhibits, artifacts and displays, all combined to tell the story of Akron’s founding.

Stark & Summit Counties

• Take a spin on the Conservation Carousel at the Akron Zoo, featuring 33 hand-carved wooden animals. The Akron Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world.

• Summit County is filled with deep history, where stories of canal towns, industry pioneers and preserved landmarks bring the past to life.

Check out all the America 250 locations in Summit County!

In the Akron-Canton region, every museum, monument, and Main Street invites you to connect more deeply with the American spirit.

STARK COUNTY

• Visit the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum and explore science exhibits, a planetarium, and the impressive monument and final resting place of our 25th president.

• At the National First Ladies Library & Museum, tour “The Eras Exhibit: 250 Years of First Ladies’ Progress and Power”, exploring the evolving role of First Ladies throughout American history.

• Spend your day at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, with everything from interactive exhibits to aweinspiring displays of NFL greatness.

• History lives on in Stark County’s charming towns and villages. From the canal-era roots of Canal Fulton to the brick-lined streets of Minerva and Louisville’s Constitution-focused landmarks.

Check out all the America 250 locations in Stark County!

Roots To Be Proud Of ? IT’S A SHORE THING

On July 4, 2026, the United States of America will turn 250 years old! America 250-Ohio is a multi-year commemoration where Ohioans from all 88 counties will be in the spotlight of the impact Ohio’s unique role had in our nation’s story.

Heritage pride runs deep in Shores & Islands Ohio. Go back in time and reconnect to a bygone age as you explore the Shores & Islands Ohio Heritage Trail, featuring a wide variety of the region’s historical sites and museums. This trail takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of our area. Delve into the past as you uncover hidden tales, forgotten anecdotes, and remarkable events that have shaped the very fabric of our communities. Sign up for your free mobile pass and start your experience today!

Shores & Islands Ohio and the US will be holding celebrations leading up to July 4, 2026. Stay tuned for more info about events at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

ANNIE OAKLEY MURAL, GREENVILLE

ACROSS OHIO Murals

Whether in Ohio’s big cities or the Buckeye State’s tiniest towns, public artworks have rich stories to tell. Donna Collins, executive director of the Ohio Arts Council, established Murals Across Ohio to catalog these large-scale pieces. The program highlights murals that depict historic milestones, celebrate unique cultures and envision a brighter future.

When Collins put out a call for murals that fit the bill, she immediately received close to 60 responses, and by June 2025, there were over 150 submissions. Murals are added to an interactive map on the America 250-Ohio website, where visitors can click on a plot point to see a photo, description and address for each piece.

Small towns are represented, with pieces such as Circleville’s Pumpkin Show 100th Anniversary mural, a work by Eric Henn that depicts one of our state’s beloved fall festivals, and Oxford Hive, a piece from Joseph Prescher that honors the town’s status as the birthplace of the modern beehive, invented in 1851 by apiarist L.L. Langstroth. Dirk Rozich’s Ashville Fourth of July Parade mural also stands out for its depiction of a marching band in a parade that is packed with details for the viewer to uncover.

“It’s just rich with hidden messages. … Visitors can really spend hours there, discovering and interpreting the details,” Collins says. “It’s things like that that make this special. I may not have ever seen that mural if not for this project.”

The Buckeye State’s cities find their way onto the map with Grain to Glass, a Cincinnati mural by Jim Effler that portrays each step in the beer-making process and pays homage to the Queen City’s deep ties to the industry. The Glass City River Wall, a massive artwork designed by Gabe Gault, spans 28 silos along the Maumee River in Toledo and honors the area’s Indigenous history.

“You start seeing the entire picture of not just public art and murals,” Collins says, “but the depiction of what’s going on in all corners of the state, how that’s impacted the history, evolution and development of Ohio and its importance in the history of the United States.”

For more information about Murals Across Ohio, visit america250-ohio.org/murals-across-ohio.

CELEBRATE 250 IN SPRINGFIELD

Spend your next weekend getaway in Springfield, Ohio where you’ll find great food, amazing parks, world class antique shopping, and nationally recognized attractions. A perfect road trip destination and a region on the rise. As the capital of active leisure in Ohio, you’ll be able to #findyourunwind at your own pace.

Tracing History on U.S. Route 250

IN OHIO, THIS FEDERAL HIGHWAY RUNS FROM SANDUSKY TO THE BELMONT COUNTY VILLAGE OF BRIDGEPORT — A ROAD TRIP THAT CONNECTS NOTABLE LOCATIONS TIED TO OUR NATION’S PAST.

More than 170 miles of U.S. Route 250 stretch through Ohio, from the lakeshore city of Sandusky to the village of Bridgeport in Belmont County. When America 250-Ohio executive director Todd Kleismit learned this while planning ways to commemorate our nation’s semiquincentennial, he saw a fun road trip.

“The more I looked into it, the more I loved what I saw there,” he says. “It connects Lake Erie to the Ohio River. It goes through eight different Ohio counties. It’s scenic in certain places and has a nice, diverse mix of communities.”

Beginning less than a mile from the Lake Erie shore in Sandusky, the highway is known

» CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

to many Cedar Point amusement park visitors and begins not far from the city’s Merry-Go-Round Museum. From there it heads southeast, passing by the village of Milan — the birthplace of inventor Thomas Edison, who is honored with a museum in his hometown.

U.S. 250 then continues through Norwalk, a city that has connections to the American Revolution. It was once part of the Firelands, land set aside

at the edge of the Connecticut Western Reserve for those who had lost their homes to British-set fires during the Revolutionary War.

“There are a lot of references to the Firelands, but not a lot of people know or understand the context,” Kleismit says.

Continuing southeast toward the college towns of Ashland and Wooster, Kleismit says the rolling hills in this area offer some of the best natural scenery along Ohio’s portion of U.S. 250. Wooster is named after the American Revolution’s

Ohio’s Railroad Legacy

Along U.S. Route 250, the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum stands as a reminder of the past, as well as a celebration of Ohio's significance in innovation and transportation history.

In the heart of the U.S., Ohio’s railroads once whistled with abundant trains, each serving at the forefront of 19th-century economic growth and expansion. With the rise of automobiles and the development of the interstate highway system, railroad's popularity for personal travel gave way to automobiles and airplanes.

Today, the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum celebrates and preserves Ohio’s railroad legacy. The Depot is a National Historic Landmark and the best example in the nation of a servicemen's canteen.

Gen. David Wooster, and both cities are home to impressive county courthouses.

“I really love historic county courthouses and downtowns,” Kleismit says. “That’s really one of Ohio’s strengths: our county seats and their historic charm.”

In Tuscarawas County, the Fort Laurens Museum, built on the site of the former Revolutionary War outpost, can be seen by making a brief detour off U.S. 250.

“Fort Laurens was a short-term fort, but it’s one of Ohio’s most important Revolutionary War touchpoints,” Kleismit says of the site.

Along U.S. 250 outside of New Philadelphia sits Schoenbrunn Village, where Moravian missionary David Zeisberger and his Delaware (or Lenape) Native American followers lived from 1772 to 1777. Today, it is home to 17 re-created structures built on their original sites.

About 8 miles farther along U.S. 250, travelers can stop at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum in the village of Dennison. The train station served as a World War II canteen that served food and drink to troops on their way to deployment or training.

Before reaching the village of Bridgeport on the Ohio River, U.S. Route 250 runs through Cadiz, the birthplace of actor Clark Gable, who starred in Gone with the Wind. “We’re leaning into all of these things and U.S. Route 250 is a great way for us to showcase all the things that Ohio can bring to this semiquincentennial,” says Kleismit.

To honor America’s 250th anniversary, the Depot is offering round trips aboard their passenger trains, and the museum has immersive railroad history and wartime exhibits. Watch as trains run in a large model train layout, depicting Dennison in its prime. The Panhandle Theater features a film on Dennison’s rich history, focusing on its role as a WWII-era railroad canteen. Steam locomotives, passenger cars and freight cars sit well-preserved for viewing.

For more information on the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, visit dennisondepot.org.

JAN-DEC 2026

KNOXCOUNTY

OHIO CELEBRATE CELEBRATE

JOIN US IN 2026 TO CELEBRATE AMERICA’S SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL!

KNOX COUNTY IS ALL IN TO CELEBRATE

OHIO’S RICH HISTORY AND UNIQUE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE U.S. FOR THE LAST 250 YEARS.

FROM PICNICS TO PLAYS, MUSICALS TO MOVIES, HISTORY TALES TO HISTORY TRAILS; YOU’LL DISCOVER WHY KNOX COUNTY IS, AND ALWAYS WILL BE, IN THE HEART OF IT ALL.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & DON’T MISS THE BIG CELEBRATIONS!

VISIT OUR FEATURED CREATIVITY TRAIL STOP

ARIELFOUNDATION PARK

DID YOU KNOW THAT

CHEWING GUM

WAS FIRST PATENTED BY A DENTIST IN MOUNT VERNON IN THE LATE 1800S?

DID YOU KNOW THAT AWARD-WINNING ACTOR AND HOLLYWOOD HEARTTHROB, PAUL NEWMAN STUDIED AT KENYON COLLEGE?

Ohio Goes to the Movies

In 2026, movie screens across the state will light up with Ohio-centric films as Ohio Goes to the Movies (OGTTM), a signature event of America 250-Ohio.

Beginning February 11 through October 16, each of Ohio's 88 counties will be represented among more than 280 screenings. These are movies recognizing Ohioans in front of and behind the camera throughout the

Dee, Doris Day, Burgess Meredith and Paul Newman to directors like Steven Spielberg, Jim Jarmusch and Julia Reichert. Musicians Henri Mancini, Trent Renzor, Mark Mothersbaugh and The National. Animators such as pioneering Charles Csuri and Mark Henn of Disney fame, along with costume designers like Oscar winner Paul Tazewell, and prop designer John Zabrucky.

For this endeavor, OGTTM enlisted the help of venues large and small across the state, to host events, including drive-ins, historic theaters, art houses and independent and commercial cinemas, as well as community centers, museums, libraries and more.

It's fitting that OGTTM will launch on February 11 at the Milan Township Hall. Thomas Edison was born in Milan, Ohio, on February 11, and his genius and inventions helped launch the entertainment industry. This town in northwest Ohio represents all of Ohio’s small towns, as well as large towns, where talent was born.

These free ticketed and open to the public events will include a preview gathering (such as a red-carpet event, trivia or the like), followed by watching the movie and culminating with an audience participation Q&A. Each community venue is planning its own celebration and what fun they will be! Several examples can be found in the calendar section that starts on page 25 of this publication.

This unprecedented series is the brainchild of former Ohio Bicentennial Commission executive director Stephen George, who has carried the idea around since 2003, according to Molly Kreuzman, program director for Ohio Goes to the Movies. As he traveled to Ohio’s 88 counties as part of his Ohio Bicentennial Commission duties, George noted how many people referenced locals who had made it big in Hollywood. They may be household names now, but Kreuzman points out that many began their journeys, went to school or gained career-building experience across Ohio.

“Ohio Goes to the Movies is growing beyond our expectations, and we are so excited because no one has ever done something of this reach and scope,” notes Kreuzman. “We’re proud to spotlight these people from your own backyard who have done something pretty amazing in this one-of-a-kind movie series.”

For more information about the Ohio Goes to the Movie series, visit ohiogoestothemovies.org.

Mark Your Calendar!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THESE CELEBRATIONS!

FIND EVEN MORE EVENTS ON AMERICA250-OHIO.ORG.

2025

November 13

Ohio & The Revolution Webinar Series: The Revolution Begins

Join America 250-Ohio and experts for a live discussion exploring Ohio’s role before the American Revolution.

November 16–21

Ken Burns American Revolution PBS Series

Watch this six-part PBS series airing nationwide, exploring the war’s global impact, personal stories and America’s founding through powerful storytelling and history.

December 12–January 23

Thomas Corwin: A Profile in Courage Exhibit

Take an intimate look at the life of the statesman Abraham Lincoln credited with single-handedly keeping Mexico from joining the Confederacy. Harmon Museum, 105 S. Broadway, Lebanon.

2026

January 10

Chillicothe: Ohio’s First Capital

Learn about Ohio’s first capital, Chillicothe. This is the first in a series of monthly talks occurring in the Chillicothe area on the second Saturday of each month throughout 2026. Replica of the First Capital Building of Ohio, 50 W. Main St., Chillicothe.

January 17–April 25

Revolutionary Exhibit

This temporary exhibit showcases Revolutionary War veterans who settled in Licking County. Discover their stories, legacy and impact on the community. The Works: Ohio Center for History, 55 S. First St., Newark.

250 Buckeye Train and Transportation Celebration

April 25–26, 2026

Located halfway between Columbus and Pittsburgh, the town of Dennison was dubbed Dreamsville, USA by the 1.3 million service members who passed through on their way to serve during World War II. Today, the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is the only remaining example of the 242 nationwide trackside canteens that provided food and lifted the spirits of traveling soldiers.

In recognition of Ohio’s role in the evolution of transportation, the two-day 250 Buckeye Train and Transportation Celebration invites participants to chug along through time with trains, planes and automobiles and commemorate how our state helped shape U.S. history.

“Ohio was a leader in transportation in many ways: in air and auto and rail and military support,” says Wendy Zucal, executive director of the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. “This event is all about Ohio’s transportation history, past and present.”

On April 25, 2026, ticketed passengers are invited to board the AM 250-OH Buckeye Train departing from Columbus for a round-trip adventure to the Dennison Depot. While traveling east at 35 mph, riders can learn about the history of the area and take in the picturesque scenery before a three-hour stop in Dennison. On April 26, 2026, a separate event offers ticketed riders a round-trip excursion from Newark to Dennison with a planned pick-up in Coshocton on its journey to Dennison.

Once they arrive in Dennison, visitors can trace the evolution of the automobile at the Ohio 250 Car Show, while vintage airplanes and modern military aircraft take to the skies in flyovers meant to reflect the spirit of World War II-era aviation history.

Other highlights include WWII reenactors, museum exhibits, food trucks and a USO show reminiscent of the entertainment soldiers were treated to during deployment. For more information, including ticket availability, visit dennisondepot.org.

January 22

Local Women and the Underground Railroad

Discover the revolutionary women of Putnam, Ohio, and their contributions to the Underground Railroad through this public talk. Stone Academy, 115 Jefferson St., Zanesville.

January 30–31

Northwest Ordinance Conference

Join scholars and history enthusiasts at this two-day conference that explores the 1787 act of Congress that established the Northwest Territory — including Ohio. The Blackwell Inn, 2210 Tuttle Park Pl., Columbus.

February 14–22

Dispatch Home & Garden Show: Celebrating America

Celebrate America at the 2026 Central Ohio Home & Garden Show. Explore stunning gardens, expert advice and endless inspiration — all under one roof. Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus.

February 19

Ohio Goes to the Movies: The Male Animal (1942) and A Unicorn in the Garden (1953)

Author, cartoonist and playwright James Thurber was born in Columbus and wrote the source text for the films. Wexner Center for the Arts, 1871 N. High St., Columbus.

February 21

Ohio Goes to the Movies: La La Land (2016)

Musician, record producer and actor John Legend is a native of Springfield and appears in the film. Springfield State Theater, 19 S. Fountain Ave., Springfield.

March 10

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Touchback (2011)

The movie was filmed in part in Coshocton with local extras, including two high school football teams. Shelby Theatres, 460 Downtowner Plaza #1929, Coshocton.

March 19

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Philadelphia Story (1940)

This Academy Award-winning best picture was written by Columbus’ Donald Ogden Stewart. The museum will showcase costume designers who worked with Katharine Hepburn. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Dr., Kent.

March 21

Ohio Goes to the Movies: A Man Called Otto (2022)

The movie was filmed in part in northern Ohio. Director Marc Forster is from Columbus, as is actor Jon Osbeck, while actor Peter Lawson Jones is from Cleveland. Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St., Maumee.

March 27

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Best in Show (2000)

Actress Rachael Harris is from Worthington, attended Otterbein University and plans to attend the screening. A local rescue will promote shelter dogs. McConnell Arts Center, 777 Evening St., Worthington.

April 1

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Rain Man (1988)

Filmed in and around Greater Cincinnati, Rain Man helped spark the establishment of a film commission in Cincinnati. The Historic Plaza Theatre, 33 S. Main St., Miamisburg.

April 12

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Cool Hand Luke (1967)

Actor Paul Newman grew up in Shaker Heights and worked at Cedar Lee Theatre. His daughter, Melissa, will speak at the screening. Cedar Lee Theatre, 2163 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights.

April 18

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Despicable Me (2010)

Steve Carell is the voice of Gru and graduated from Denison University in Granville. Hillsboro Orpheum, 135 N. High St., Ste. 2, Hillsboro.

April 22

Ohio Goes to the Movies: The Princess Bride (1987)

The novel and screenplay were written by William Goldman (Oberlin College).

The film stars Cleveland actor Carol Kane. Apollo Theatre, 19 E. College St., Oberlin.

Ohio’s Homecoming & Picnic July

2026

Nothing gets the summer sizzling quite like a picnic. Whether you plan your own or attend one of the organized Ohio’s Homecoming & Picnic events across the state, the idea behind this America 250-Ohio initiative is to encourage friends and family to gather in July and celebrate our nation’s birth on its semiquincentennial.

“It’s also an opportunity to encourage people to come back home to Ohio, so it’s a reconnecting with community and coming together,” says Megan Wood, executive director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection in Columbus.

In a partnership with Cenovus Energy, signature gatherings are planned for Lima and Toledo, as well as the Ohio History Center in Columbus, Schoenbrunn Village in New Philadelphia, the Harding Presidential Sites in Marion, the Newark Earthworks in Newark and the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center in Wilberforce.

Groups who register to host an event will receive a picnic kit, Wood notes. Ideas for games, trivia sessions, speakers and even Spotify playlists will be included in each kit, in addition to suggestions for activities such as reading the Declaration of Independence — something done frequently in public places for those who did not have access to newspapers and other public forums in 1776.

Ohioans are also being asked to explore the history of the places they call home to find significant items that personalize each picnic. For example, Cleveland cookouts could highlight Bertman Original Ball Park Mustard, served at professional baseball games in the city since the 1920s, while Cincinnati gatherings could make locally beloved Grippo’s Potato Chips (founded in downtown Cincinnati in 1919) part of their menu. For details on Ohio’s Homecoming & Picnic events or for guidance on hosting a picnic in your community, visit america250-ohio.org/picnic.

April 25–26

250 Buckeye Train Ride

Take a train ride to the historic Dennison Depot. On the train, enjoy reenactors and storytelling. When you arrive in Dennison, you’ll be treated to the America 250-Ohio Transportation Celebration. Hop back on the train for the return trip. Round trip from Columbus to Dennison on April 25 and round trip from Newark to Dennison on April 26.

May 1

Call to Duty Salute Marker Trail Launch

Celebrate the launch of the Ottawa County Veterans Legacy Trail. Honor Ottawa County veterans as you explore local cemeteries and learn more about their contributions. Ottawa County Designated Cemeteries.

May 30

1950s Sock Hop & Classic Car Cruise In

Come dressed in your favorite ’50s attire, check out some cool classic cars and enjoy some sweet treats. Guernsey County District Public Library, 63500 Byesville Rd., Cambridge.

May 30–31

Train to Newark’s Strawberry Festival and America 250-Ohio Picnic

Take a train ride to Downtown Newark to enjoy the Americana Strawberry festival and participate in the America 250-Ohio picnic! Dennison Railroad Depot, 400 Center St., Dennison.

June 6–8

Day in the Life of a Lighthouse Keeper

Brian Ellis of Fox Tales International will recreate the daily life of a lighthouse keeper on the Great Lakes circa the 1800s–1900s.

June 6: Port Clinton Lighthouse, 1868 E. Perry St., Port Clinton. June 7: South Bass Lighthouse, 2368 Langram Rd., Put-in-Bay.

June 8: Lakeside Chautauqua-Orchestra Hall, 800 Maple Ave., Lakeside.

June 8

QR the ’Burg: America 250 Story Quest Kickoff

Stroll through Reynoldsburg and scan

QR codes to hear student-led stories that bring 250 years of the nation’s past to life, one stop at a time. City of Reynoldsburg, 7232 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg.

June 12

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Rio Bravo (1959)

Singer, actor and comedian Dean Martin was born in Steubenville. The screenplay was written by Leigh Bracket from Kinsman. The Dean Martin Association, Fort Steuben, 120 S. Third St., Steubenville.

June 13–14

America 250 Celebration: America in 1776

Join a celebration of America complete with costumed interpreters, 18th-century games and historic demonstrations. Adena Mansion and Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe.

June 14

Upper Sandusky Flag Day Ceremony

Celebrate Flag Day with a display of historic U.S. flags, a patriotic ceremony and proper flag retirement with local scouts. Upper Sandusky Elks Lodge, 320 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky.

June 19–20

Homefront to Warfront

This is a joint event with the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, held in both Dennison and Sugarcreek. Enjoy the “Homefront” of WWII in Dennison and the “Warfront” at the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum’s Steam to Victory Event. Dennison Railroad Depot, 400 Center St., Dennison.

June 24

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Toy Story 2 (1999)

Academy Award-winning director and editor Lee Unkrich is from Chagrin Falls. CDFF on the Triangle (Chagrin Doc Film Fest), 3½ N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls.

June 27

Ohio’s Homecoming & Signature Picnic: Lima

Join the City of Lima for an all-star picnic extravaganza including the Lima Symphony Orchestra. Greater Lima Region Park & Amphitheater, 128 E. Spring St., Lima.

The Works 30th: History –America’s 250th Celebration

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday as well as the 30th anniversary of The Works with Revolutionary War reenactors, local history partners and history-themed /family-friendly activities. The Works: Ohio Center for History, 55 S. First St., Newark.

June 27 and July 1, 9, 11, 14 & 17

America 250 Concert: America’s History Through Music performed by the Akron Symphonic Winds

Listen to a narrated musical journey through U.S. history, featuring works by Ohio composers. June 27: Veteran’s Memorial Park, 7619 Memphis Ave., Brooklyn.

July 1: Cahoon Memorial Park Gazebo, 27600 Lake Rd., Bayside. July 9: Akron Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron July 11: Heritage Park Gazebo, 400 Grant St., Dennison. July 14: Village Green Pavilion, 4586 W. Streetsboro Rd., Richfield. July 17: Wadsworth Square Theatre, 151 Main St., Wadsworth.

ODNR Legacy Festival July 4, 2026

As the oldest continuously operating beacon on the Great Lakes, Marblehead Lighthouse is not as old as the United States, but it’s been helping ships navigate the rocky shoreline of Lake Erie since 1822.

It guided sailors long before Orville and Wilbur Wright took flight and is still doing so decades after Ohioan Neil Armstrong walked on the moon.

The 65-foot limestone tower also played a critical role in national defense over the years, particularly during WWII when it was a key point for monitoring shipping traffic and guiding military vessels.

In partnership with the Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources hosts its Legacy Festival at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park on July 4, 2026, providing attendees with a unique way to celebrate our nation’s semiquincentennial.

“It’s something really special to make history in a place that’s already had so much history,” says Alyssa Yaple, senior director of strategic initiatives for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. “And we expect to do that with this event.”

On the schedule for this free event is an outdoor concert led by the Firelands Symphony Orchestra, refreshments, lawn games and an opportunity to learn about the geological history of the area, including the glacial movements that shaped the Marblehead Peninsula. Visitors can also delight in watching fireworks from Cedar Point, which is located across the Sandusky Bay.

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, tours of the lighthouse are offered every 20 minutes between noon and 4 p.m., offering visitors an opportunity to ascend the 77-step spiral staircase and take in the views from the top. Tours are $3, but there is no charge to visit the grounds. 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead 43440, ohiodnr.gov

July 2

Muskingum County 4th of July Celebration

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Coal Miner’s Daughter (1980 )

Celebration of America Festival

The city will “walk in 1776” with authentic food, crafts of the day, period costume judging and folk music on the courthouse sidewalks. Downtown Upper Sandusky, N. and S. Sandusky Streets and Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky.

July 4

Be a part of the community celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Confluence Park, 721 W. Main St., Zanesville.

July 5

Greenville’s America 250 Community Picnic

The movie stars actress Beverly D’Angelo, a Columbus native. Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St., Columbus.

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)

America’s 250th Parade

Join the City of Ashland and Ashland County to celebrate America’s 250th birthday through historic floats, dedications and more. Downtown Ashland, Main St., Ashland.

Celebrating Our Heritage Festival

Enjoy live music, carnival games, a horseshoe pitching tournament, fishing derby, frisbee golf tournament and fireworks! Greenville City Park, 108 Ave. F, Greenville.

Ohio Goes to the Movies: 1776 (1972)

This blockbuster movie was directed by Trumbull County’s Chris Columbus. Robins Theatre, 160 E. Market St., Warren

July 11

Delaware County Homecoming Picnic

Festivities will bring together the community while celebrating its heritage. Brown County Fairgrounds, 325 W. State St., Georgetown

Independence Parade on July 4

Unite with local residents and surrounding towns to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with events honoring this historic milestone. Downtown Upper Sandusky, Main St., Upper Sandusky

Marietta’s 250 Celebration

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a parade and a picnic. Front St., Marietta.

Ken Howard (Kent State University) portrayed Thomas Jefferson, and Cleveland’s Howard DaSilva portrayed Ben Franklin. Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe.

July 10

Guernsey County District Public Library Community Picnic

Enjoy live music, food, games and fellowship. Bring a dish or grab a bite from local food trucks. Guernsey County District Public Library, 63500 Byesville Rd., Cambridge.

Celebrate the Declaration of Independence with live music, food trucks, games and activities in the Imagination Garden. Delaware County District Library, 7171 Gooding Blvd., Delaware.

Ohio’s Homecoming & Signature Picnic: Toledo

The beautiful grounds of the Toledo Museum of Art will be the setting for this signature event. Toledo Art Museum, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo.

FOR

HISTORY SPACE

Break into the Ohio State Reformatory, the 1896 prison that became home to The Shawshank Redemption.

July 11

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Spider-Man (2002)

The movie features a cameo and music performed by Stark County native Macy Gray. Massillon’s art museum, library and arts council will cross-promote various art forms (film/ theater and music) at the screening. Lions Lincoln Theatre, 156 Lincoln Way E., Massillon.

July 17–18

8th Annual Blazing Paddles Paddlefest

Celebrate Cleveland’s Cuyahoga River and Ohio’s freshwater legacy with paddling, history and fun. Nautica Waterfront District, 2398 Sycamore St., Cleveland

Highland County Celebration

Celebrate the heritage of Highland County and America. Various locations in Highland County, 119 Governor Foraker Pl., Hillsboro.

July 24

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Draft Day (2014)

The film was made in Ohio (Cleveland, Aurora, Kent) and stars Jennifer Garner (Denison University). Martins Ferry Veterans Memorial Recreation Center, 401 S. Fourth St., Martins Ferry.

July 29–August 9

America 250-Ohio at the Ohio State Fair: Celebrating America/ America’s Big Birthday Party

The 2026 Ohio State Fair will celebrate America’s birthday “Ohio-Style” with events, contests and patriotic décor. Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus.

August 1–2

Declaration 250

The event will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the actual signing of the Declaration of Independence on Aug. 2, 1776. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, 93 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay.

August 10

Ohio Goes to the Movies: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Director and producer Steven Spielberg was born in Cincinnati. Elm Road Triple Drive-In Theatre, 1895 Elm Rd. N.E., Warren.

August 14

Ohio Goes to the Movies: A Raisin In The Sun (1961)

The movie stars Cleveland actor Ruby Dee. Esquire Theatre, 320 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati.

August 14-16

Fort Jennings Fort Fest

Don’t miss this military appreciation event with free fun and entertainment, including military reenactments, military vehicles and kids’ activities. Fort Jennings Park, 100 E. First St., Fort Jennings

September 5

Family Field Day

Kick off fall with games, obstacle courses and fun for all ages. Guernsey County District Public Library, 63500 Byesville Rd., Cambridge.

September 10–20

Ohio Open Doors

Discover Ohio’s amazing heritage as historic buildings and landmarks across the state open their doors to you for special tours and events. Sites throughout Ohio.

September 12

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Broken Blossoms (1919)

The movie stars actor Lillian Gish, who was born in Springfield. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N., Canton.

September 19

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Unstoppable (2010)

The film was partially shot in Jefferson County and used the Market Street bridge, next to the amphitheater where the film will be screened. Public Library of Steubenville, Fort Steuben Amphitheater, 407 S. Fourth St., Steubenville.

September 19-20

America 250-Ohio Ohio Goes to the Movies Train Film Fest

A part of the Depot Film Series, enjoy classic films featuring trains or depots with Ohio connections — a unique blend of cinema, history and local pride on screen. Dennison Railroad Depot, 400 Center St., Dennison.

September 27

Play Ball!: The Ohio Village Muffins vs. The Harvey Cornhuskers

See an old-fashioned baseball game when the Ohio Village Muffins face the Harvey Cornhuskers. Harvey One-Room School, 1120 Caldwell Rd., Bucyrus

October 2

Ohio Goes to the Movies: A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Director and writer Wes Craven is from Cleveland. Briggs Lawrence County Public Library, 321 S. Fourth St., Ironton.

Ohio Goes to the Movies: Zombieland (2009)

Actor Woody Harrelson graduated from Lebanon High School in Warren County. KeyBank Discovery Theater at Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo.

October 10

Ohio Author Festival

Meet authors from Ohio and beyond. Enjoy guest speakers, workshops and activities for all ages at this exciting literary gathering. Guernsey County District Public Library, 63500 Byesville Rd., Cambridge.

Ulysses S. Grant Comes to Ottawa County

Dr. Curt Fields, historian and re-enactor, will speak on Grant’s military history as well as his years as President. The program will be part of the Society’s annual Fall Festival/Civil War Encampment. Wolcott Keeper’s House, 9999 E. Bayshore Rd., Lakeside Marblehead

October 16–18

55th Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival

Celebrate fall in Coshocton with apple butter, live music, 100-plus vendors, kids’ crafts, history tours and kettle-stirring fun over three days. Historic Roscoe Village, 600 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton.

EXPERIENCE AMERICA’S STORY in Clermont County

Clermont County is celebrating America 250 with vibrant public murals, historic storytelling, and a new passport highlighting museums and heritage sites. From colorful artwork, to hands-on history experiences, the county is bringing America’s story to life.

Come explore, collect your stamps, and be part of this once-in-a-generation celebration in Clermont County!

Celebrate All Year

Monthly Themes

In 2026, we will celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States by exploring all the ways that Ohio has contributed to U.S. history for 250+ years. Each month will focus on a different theme that reflects Ohio’s unique impact. Starting in January with Ohio’s Firsts & Originals to December’s Future Ohio: Projecting Ohio in 2076, we’ll have a guide of celebrations across the state — from music, to sports, to county fairs.

Revolutionary War Veterans Graves Project

Help America 250-Ohio honor the veterans from the Revolutionary War. This project seeks to identify, document and map the final resting places of an estimated 7,000 Revolutionary War patriots buried in Ohio. We ask for your input as we connect with Ohio’s rich history and ensure that the sacrifices of these patriots are remembered for generations to come.

Heritage Trees: Planting History

America 250-Ohio will plant a white oak tree in all of Ohio’s 88 counties to honor our state’s role in the nation’s founding and commemorate the history of the location where it’s planted. By planting these trees in meaningful locations, Ohioans are actively preserving their local heritage while contributing to environmental sustainability. As they grow, these trees will stand as a testament to Ohio’s commitment to conservation.

Under-Told Stories

Stay Connected to America 250-Ohio

Join America 250-Ohio in collecting a strong, rich ecosystem of stories that only family members tell, that only a certain segment of our community knows about, and that highlight the spectrum of experiences and contributions to Ohio’s evolution over 250+ years. All Ohioans are invited to participate in this unique opportunity to share their personal stories, family histories and community experiences.

so much to explore