Honoring our past, celebrating our present, and looking forward to the future
As the United States marks 250 years of independence in 2026, communities across the country are participating in America 250, a national initiative culminating this year. Destination Hilliard is proud to be an active partner in America 250 efforts on both the local and state level, collaborating with local organizations to bring this milestone to life through events, experiences, and storytelling that celebrate our city’s roots, innovation, and enduring community spirit.
The Hilliard History Express: A Living Story
Our award-winning Hilliard History Express continues to connect residents and visitors to local history through an interactive passport program, student-narrated storytelling, and community partnerships. In 2026, we will debut the new third-grade voices along the trail, bringing Hilliard’s past to life just in time for America 250. This project reflects the heart of our community: collaboration, education, and pride in our hometown.
Hilliard's America 250 Kickoff!
The Hilliard Ohio Historical Society was awarded an Ohio 250 grant to elevate two events celebrating the semiquincentennial. The first event will be the Hilliard America 250 Kickoff which also coincides with the 60-year celebration of the HOHS. With a “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” theme, the Society will shine a spotlight on Hilliard’s transportation heritage, from our beginnings as a train town to our modern connections by air and highway. This will also serve as the season opening of the Historical Village.
Heritage Day
This year's Heritage Day presented by the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society will be highlighting the Ohio America 250 “Ohio Grows: Food & Farms” theme.
Tentative plans include:
- We hope to have historical figure re-enactors and the Muffins historic baseball team again this year.
- Hands-on agriculture activities – butter making, corn shucking, berry mashing, using old tools
- Dutch oven baking demonstrations and tasting
- animal/farm exhibits by 4H and/or local farmers
- ODNR exhibit regarding animals.
This theme will also appear at the Franklin County Fair, where exhibits and displays will tie into America 250 and showcase how innovation, mobility, and progress have shaped the region.
Innovation in Our Own Backyard
Hilliard is home to the Early Television Museum, widely regarded as the only museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to the early technology of televisions. The collection highlights the creativity and technological progress that transformed how the world communicates and connects. It serves as a powerful reminder that Hilliard’s contributions to innovation extend far beyond our city limits.
The museum is an official part of Ohio’s America 250 Innovation Trail.
Independence Day 2026
The City of Hilliard has signed on to participate in the Ohio America 250 Picnic, a statewide initiative inviting neighbors to gather on July 4. This patriotic celebration will take place during Freedom Fest, combining our community’s favorite summer traditions such as live music, fireworks, and family fun with a renewed appreciation for what makes Hilliard’s story so special.
Hilliard’s Fourth of July Parade hosted by the Franklin County Agricultural Society will also carry the America 250 theme, bringing local organizations, civic groups, and community partners together for a colorful salute to our history and hometown pride.
The Franklin County Fair
While Ohio 250 will be celebrating Ohio Goes to the Fair: The Ohio State Fair, County Fairs & Festivals in August, Hilliard will be celebrating a little early. Stay tuned for the America 250 themed activities coming to the Franklin County Fair July 20-26, 2026.
Looking Ahead
We will keep updating the events calendar and this space to share any additional activities and plans. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Hilliard’s celebrations remind us that history is not just something to remember but something we continue to live and shape together. Whether you are waving from the parade route, exploring the Historical Village, visiting the Early Television Museum, or collecting stamps on your Hilliard History Express passport, you are part of a story that continues to grow.
Let’s make history together.
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