PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: June 19, 2026
Idaho Celebrates America 250
(Boise, Idaho) The State of Idaho is joining the nation in celebrating 250 years of the Declaration of Independence, with community events across the state surrounding July 4, 2026. The capstone event will be a free concert featuring Idaho’s own Josh Ritter and other Idaho talent on the Capitol grounds in Boise and broadcast statewide on Idaho Public Television.
Celebrations, events, exhibits, and more are happening in communities across Idaho through funding in part from the America 250 in Idaho Advisory Council, a committee designated by Governor Brad Little to mark this once-in-a-generation commemoration. The full list of events happening in the state is available at https://america250.idaho.gov/.
The Idaho America 250 Capitol Celebration serves as the culminating event in downtown Boise. In partnership with the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA) and the We The People 4th of July Celebration Committee, the day begins with a VEA pancake breakfast at Cecil D. Andrus Park from 7 to 10 a.m. The 4th of July Parade, featuring an A-10 flyover, begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at the Capitol.
Following the parade, the celebration kicks off with the 25th Army Band and a free concert at Cecil D. Andrus Park. The concert will be emceed by Idaho broadcasting legend Dee Sarton and feature music from Josh Ritter, Afrosonics, Jeff Crosby, Chad Marvin, and EllieMae. Food truck vendors and informational booths will fill the park.
The event is free and open to the public.
“The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is a chance for Idahoans to come together and reflect on the people, principles, and sacrifices that shaped our nation,” said Senator Ben Adams, co-chair of the America250 in Idaho Advisory Council. “Communities across Idaho have created meaningful ways to mark this milestone, and we encourage everyone to take part in this once-in-a-generation celebration.”
Inside the statehouse, the Idaho Capitol will be open for tours and displays that bring Idaho’s distinct flair to the commemoration of this milestone. The Idaho State Museum will offer free admission for the duration of the event. Idaho’s Liberty Bell replica will return to the Capitol steps after being refurbished for the occasion and will be on display.
“We’re excited to welcome Idahoans from every corner of our state to gather at the Capitol and mark this historic occasion together,” said Secretary of State Phil McGrane. “From the pancake breakfast and parade to an afternoon of Idaho music and history, this celebration is a chance to reflect on where we’ve come from and enjoy the community that makes Idaho home.”
The parade will be broadcast locally on Idaho News Channel 2. The concert will be broadcast statewide on Idaho Public Television beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Concert Schedule:
“Two hundred and fifty years of American independence is something worth celebrating. As Idahoans, we have an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that built this nation, honor those who came before us, and bring communities together as we look toward the future,” said Representative Brandon Mitchell, co-chair of the America 250 in Idaho Advisory Council.
