2026 is a year-long celebration for the United States, marking the United States of America's 250th anniversary.

Communities in the Valley are busy at work brainstorming a variety of ways to celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial. Groups in Trumbull County are already collaborating for the big year. On Wednesday, the Trumbull County Tourism and the Trumbull County Historical Society hosted a meeting with Trumbull County community leaders to speak about ideas.

Trumbull County is working alongside Mahoning, Columbiana, and Ashtabula Counties throughout the in-depth planning process. It's the goal of Trumbull County Tourism and the Trumbull County Historical Society to celebrate the county's successes.

Back in 2022, Governor DeWine created the Ohio 250 Commission and the planning is kicking off. The 29-member commission is charged with preparing the state to participate in the United States of America's 250th anniversary which culminates on July 4, 2026.

"We're really taking their lead," explained Beth Kotwis Carmichael, CEO of Trumbull County Tourism. "They have created themes for 2026. Each month is going to have a different theme. And what we're trying to do with us at Trumbull County Tourism and Trumbull County Historical Society is taking advantage of all the cool things that our community is preparing for, for the 250."

Current communities participating in Ohio 250 include Braceville Twp., Cortland, Howland Twp., Mecca Twp., and Vienna Twp.

Projects in Trumbull County alone include the Lake to River Traveling Exhibit, the Next 250 Schools Project, and the Trumbull County History Passport.

"We're expanding with this particular meeting where we're inviting our township trustees and elected officials to start working together to make those plans happen," Kotwis Carmichael said.

From countywide to small town plans, Hartford Township could feature it's historical buildings, the Sharon Speedway, and unique history of clocks, according to trustee Rebecca Whitman.

"We are very patriotic in Hartford Township and we'd love to be a part of the celebration. There are so many things in this county that people don't realize," Whitman told 21 News. "There are historical things and aspects to celebrate now. We were successful at having a bicentennial celebration that came out very wonderful but we need all of our organizations in the township to cooperate."

Existing events taking place on July 4, 2026 include the Gustavus Homecoming, Howland July 4th Parade, Niles July 4th Parade, Newton Falls July 4th Event, and Mahoning Valley Scrappers July 4th Celebrations.

Click here to learn more about Trumbull County's plans.

Click here to learn more about the Ohio 250 Commission.