No matter where you travel this summer there’s likely a 250th anniversary celebration nearby.

America250.org [1] has released a convenient mobile app iOS and Android devices to help drivers locate all official events.  The app, called “America’s Block Party,” helps your family locate events along points of travel this summer. 

“America’s 250th is a once-in-a-generation moment and it belongs to everyone,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “From neighborhood block parties to national moments, we are building a shared experience that brings our country together and invites people to celebrate, connect and give back.

“With this app, every American can take part, no matter where they are.”

Use the interact map to locate and tag favorites. You may search by location and by type of event. All events are free but may require preregistration.

Plan early and join the nationwide celebration. Official events include registered neighborhood celebrations, regional events and national commemorative events. 

Include some of the major celebrations of America250 on your upcoming road trips: 

1. Salute to America250 fireworks on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. [4]The 4th of July display in Washington, D.C.is promoted as the largest coordinated fireworks display in U.S. history.

2. Sail 250 / Sail4th 250 [5]. This maritime celebration features more than 60 tall ships and military vessels from 20 countries. The fleet plans to travel along the East Coast and enter the Port of New York and New Jersey by July 4. Celebrations continue through July 8. 

3. Freedom 250 Grand Prix [6] is an IndyCar street race in August through Washington, D.C. 

4. Grand opening of the Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library [7] takes place in Medora, North Dakota, on July 4. 

5. The Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C. [8] June 25 through July 10. It takes place on the National Mall and features exhibits representing all 50 states as well as educational pavilions and historical displays.

6. Pony Express Re-Ride beginning in St. Jose[ph, Mo., and ending in Old Sacramento, California. [9] Visitors at the historic stops can witness mail-bag exchange and meet riders. An interactive map allows you to trace the progress of riders beginning June 15.

7. "American Presidents" exhibition [10] at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. The refurbished exhibit now includes bilingual (English and Spanish) and accessible access. 

8. The Great American Road Trip [11] from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The GAR initiative highlights American highways and byways in celebration of the America250. You’ll find travel routes, landmarks and scenic destinations in every state, places easily accessed by vehicle. Check out interactive maps, travel tips, and suggested itineraries. 

9. Historic Times Square Ball drop July 3 at the stroke of midnight [12], the first time on any day other than New Year’s Eve in its 120-year history. The descent begins precisely at 11:59 p.m. ET. The Ball’s design includes crystals custom-made for America’s 250th anniversary to celebrate Infinite Life (1.5-inch), Infinite Liberty (3-inch), and Infinite Happiness (4-inch). 

10. Fort Campbell July 4 Festival [13]. The 101st Airborne Division hosts a July 4 festival featuring The Legend of Charlie Daniels Tribute Concert with special guests Aaron Tippin, Eric Lee Beddingfield, and the 101st Airborne Division Band.

11. Waterfront Park celebration July 4 in Charleston, S.C. [14], commemorating the town’s history during American Revolution. Charleston’s harbor was the site of Britain's first attempt to capture the strategic harbor and later battles to expel British forces. Activities include a waterfront celebration and the largest fireworks display in the Southeast.

12. Want to hold your own official America250 neighborhood party?  Go to the Host A Block Party [15]page or use the mobile app. Registering your event gives you access to a digital toolkit for signs and promotions, placement in the national America250th map and shared audio with access to official broadcast programming on July 3 and 4.

13. America250.org [1] was set up by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, which was authorized by Congress to spearhead a national celebration. 

For a full list of events go to: America250 events and sites [16]

To download the mobile app, go to: America’s Black Party app [17]