America250PA kicked off its semiquincentennial celebration at Hotel Gettysburg on January 22, 2026, from 1:15 to 3 p.m. Upon entering, community members, leaders, state and local officials, history buffs, and partners from across the Commonwealth had time to mingle, enjoy refreshments, and collect commemorative items such as Adams County 250th mini flags, hand sanitizer, yard signs, buttons, and T-shirts. A balloon display also provided a fun backdrop for photos.
Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA, was energized by the warm welcome. “Whoo! This is the best reception I’ve had! This is day six on the road for us,” she said. “Thank you so much! Adams County is beautiful!” She thanked sponsors including Destination Gettysburg, the Dobbin House, iHeartRadio, and others for their support.
The program opened with approximately 100 attendees standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Coleman outlined several initiatives already underway for the 250th anniversary, including the planting of a tree at Seminary Ridge, the visit of the America250 Mobile Experience to the National Apple Harvest Festival, and volunteer work at Unity Park in partnership with Main Street Gettysburg. “Many ongoing efforts connect people, and you can see that civic pride defines this community,” she said.
Coleman also announced the release of America250-themed beverages, including Declaration Lager by Runaway Train Brewery and the Lehigh Cosmo. She shared that the state is offering $250,000 in scholarships for students as part of the commemoration.
Adams County Commissioner Randy Phiel thanked the crowd for attending and highlighted the region’s broader historical significance. “Adams County is not just about the Civil War,” he said, noting Native American quarry sites, Sachs Bridge, the Dobbin House dating to 1776, and the Eisenhower National Historic Site. He also emphasized the importance of the county’s Fruit Belt, noting Adams County is the top apple producer in Pennsylvania, which ranks fifth nationally. He encouraged residents and visitors alike to explore the area’s historical, agricultural, and cultural offerings.
State Rep. Dan Moul spoke about Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding and Gettysburg’s enduring place in American history.
State Sen. Doug Mastriano also addressed the audience, emphasizing Pennsylvania’s central role in the birth of the nation. “PA is the heart of America — this is where our nation was born. Adams County is named after John Adams,” he said, closing with a rallying quote from 9/11 hero Todd Beamer: “Let’s roll!”
The Adams County Bell was on display as part of the Bells Across Pennsylvania project. Local artist Wendy Allen, along with artists from all 67 counties, created fiberglass replicas of the Liberty Bell. Adams County’s bell will be displayed at the Beyond the Battle Museum.
Carl Whitehill of Destination Gettysburg highlighted efforts underway in Upper Adams, noting that Biglerville Mayor Phil Wagner and community members are organizing an Upper Adams 250th Anniversary celebration on June 13, 2026. Events will include a parade, food trucks, a tractor show, a flag retirement ceremony, and more, with participation from Arendtsville, Bendersville, Biglerville, Butler Township, and Menallen Township.
Organizers outlined a full year of programming, including wellness hikes in state parks, Pennsylvania Day on July 20 with volunteer efforts statewide, Memorial Flag initiatives in May, and the Road to 2026 campaign encouraging walking, running, and biking. Concerts and speaker series are also planned.
A highlight still to come is a special train ride scheduled for November in honor of President Lincoln, expected to draw national attention. The event concluded with the presentation of the America250PA Adams County flag.
To learn more and get involved, visit www.america250pa.org.
You can also find upcoming events on the Gettysburg Connection calendar. Community members are encouraged to post flyers on the Community Voices bulletin board and sign up for our free newsletters at to stay informed about America’s 250th anniversary.
For updates on the Upper Adams celebration, visit http://www.biglerville.us/departments/upper-adams-communities-celebrate-america-s-250th.
Happy 250th to our great nation!
