In an ambitious announcement, President-elect Donald Trump revealed an extravagant plan to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026. The centerpiece of this monumental observance will be the proposed “Great American State Fair,” an expansive exposition scheduled to take place at the Iowa State Fairgrounds from Memorial Day 2025 through Independence Day, 2026. The event aims to encapsulate the essence of American heritage, culture, and ingenuity on an unprecedented scale, drawing visitors from around the globe.
Trump envisions a sprawling event with pavilions representing each of the 50 states, each showcasing its distinctive contributions, traditions, and identities. These pavilions will serve as windows into the soul of America, underscoring the diverse nature of the nation’s fabric. The fair is expected to become a magnet for “millions upon millions of attendees from every corner of the world,” as declared by the President-elect.
Beyond the state displays, the fair will feature a multitude of captivating attractions. Among them is the “Patriot Games,” a series of competitive sporting events involving high school athletes from across the country. In homage to the nation’s heroes, there will also be a meticulously curated recreation of the National Garden of American Heroes, where life-sized sculptures of influential American figures will stand as lasting tributes. Various exhibits will offer reflections on the nation’s storied past while casting a visionary gaze toward the future.
To guide this monumental project, Trump has proposed the establishment of a dedicated White House task force, aptly named “Salute to America 250.” The task force will work in collaboration with all 50 governors—Republican and Democrat alike—to bring this grand vision to fruition. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has expressed strong support for the event, asserting, “We stand prepared to host the Great American State Fair!”
However, while the plans have sparked enthusiasm in certain circles, the proposal remains in its early stages. As of now, no formal request has been made for the use of the fairgrounds. The sheer scale of the project presents significant logistical hurdles. Accommodating millions of visitors for over a year would necessitate vast improvements in infrastructure, transportation networks, and crowd management systems. Additionally, the potential economic and environmental consequences of such a colossal event will require thorough evaluation.
The Great American State Fair is part of a broader celebration that also includes inviting global leaders to the U.S. and urging religious communities to pray for the nation as it nears this historic milestone. As it stands, these plans remain proposals that will require considerable resources and coordination to bring to life. In the months ahead, more discussions and planning efforts will unfold as the nation prepares to mark this significant anniversary in its history.
