The all-American event includes a Freedom Village, live productions, and a road-trip style vlog by the tour’s mascot, Liberty the Beagle.
President Donald Trump has announced the U.S. 250 Freedom Tour to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The tour, inspired by the post-World War II Friendship and Merci Trains, will visit 50 states in 50 weeks.
“To help carry out these exciting plans, we’ve created a new public-private partnership, it’s called Freedom 250,” Trump announced in a YouTube video on Dec. 18.
The coast-to-coast free tour aims to celebrate the “patriotism, pride and pioneering spirit of America and lay the groundwork for the next 250 years,” Trump added.
The tour will be led by Freedom 250, a non-partisan organization that partnered with the White House Task Force 250, federal agencies, and the America250 Commission.
“This will be a time like you’ve never had in your lives,” Trump said.
It will kick off in Mesquite, Nevada, on Jan. 9, 2026, with free concerts by Shenandoah and Natasha Owens, as well as a fireworks display.
“Whether you’re in a rural town or a major city, this celebration is coming to you,” the website read.
The all-American event includes a Freedom Village, live productions, and a road-trip style vlog by the tour’s mascot, Liberty the Beagle.
“This is an opportunity to share the remarkable story of America, honor our heroes, and celebrate the innovation, creativity, and resilience of the American people,” executive tour director Tony Griffith said.
“From our farmers and ranchers to the Space Coast and the entertainment industry, everyone will have an opportunity to participate in this historic tour.”
The tour is just one of the many large-scale events Trump has planned for America’s 250th birthday.
In the summer, the capital will host the “Great American State Fair” on the National Mall, featuring pavilions from all 50 states.
“You’ll never see anything like it, and you’ll never see anything like it again,” Trump said.
The president also announced the Patriot Games, which will take place in the fall of next year. One man and one woman from each state and territory will compete in a series of athletic events. Trump confirmed that there will be no male athletes competing against women.
Trump also plans to build the National Garden of American Heroes and a triumphal arch in Washington, similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
By Jacki Thrapp
