Declaration 250

July 31 – August 2, 2026 • Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Declaration 250 Program & Schedule

The Perry Group presents Declaration 250 in Put-in-Bay, Ohio — a once-in-a-generation commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, held in partnership with The Lake Erie Heritage Foundation as part of America 250-Ohio.

This historic weekend will feature an opening ceremony at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, military flyovers, nationally recognized speakers, live performances including The Ohio State University Marching Band, historical reenactments, island-wide activities, and a fireworks finale over Lake Erie.

Free and open to the public.

Featured Speakers & Special Guests

Lee Greenwood: Grammy-winning artist best known for “God Bless the U.S.A.” and a staple of patriotic celebrations nationwide.
Live performance by The Ohio State University Marching Band, one of the most iconic and celebrated bands in the country.
Joe Manchin: Former longtime U.S. Senator known for bipartisan leadership and national policy experience.

Featured Speakers

  • Joe Manchin
  • Lee Greenwood
  • Hugh Hewitt
  • Vivek Ramaswamy
  • María Hammack
  • + more to be anounced

Performances & Special Appearances

  • The Ohio State University Marching Band
  • Bowling Green State University Marching Band
  • Bristol County Fifes & Drum Corps
  • U.S. Military Band
  • Military Flyover
  • Goodyear Blimp
  • Lettie Howard Tall Ship

Declaration 250 Schedule of Events

Schedule subject to change. This page will be updated as additional details are confirmed.

Friday, July 31, 2026

3:00 PM – Declaration 250 Historical Speakers Presentation
5:00 PM – VIP Welcome & Partners Reception (Invitation Only) – Lettie Howard Tall Ship
Donor, sponsor, partner, and agency thank yous
7:00 PM – Island Concert; Vendor Setup

Saturday, August 1, 2026

10:00 AM – Gates & Encampments Open; Start of Scavenger Hunt
Security screening begins
Living-history tents, signers’ exhibits, and youth activities open on the plaza
Official start of scavenger hunt at South Bass Island State Park
11:30 AM – Bristol County Fifes & Drum Corps Performance
1:00 PM – Guard Drill Team Performance
2:00 PM – Musical Performance
3:00 PM – Colonial Era Cricket Game
3:30 PM – U.S. Military Band Performance
6:00 PM – Descendants Reception on the Lettie Howard Tall Ship
8:15 PM – Sunset Colors at the Monument
Presentation of colors and brief moment of reflection

Sunday, August 2, 2026

10:00 AM – Military Band Performance
12:00 PM – Arrival of The Ohio State University Marching Band
2:00 PM – OSU Marching Band Performance
2:45 PM – Opening Declaration Ceremony
Military Flyover & Goodyear Blimp Flyover
5:00 PM – Bowling Green State University Marching Band Arrival & Performance
7:30 PM – Lee Greenwood Concert
10:00 PM – Fireworks; Close of Festivities

Enhance Your Declaration 250 Experience

Enhance your Declaration 250 experience by becoming a member of The Perry Group.

Members receive exclusive access to select events, including invitation-only receptions, priority seating, and VIP programming throughout the weekend.

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, select memberships are currently offered at 50% off.

Your support helps preserve and promote the legacy of Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial while ensuring the success of this historic commemoration.

Join The Perry Group
Plan Your Trip

Partners & Sponsors

This event is made possible through the support of our partners and sponsors.

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