MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Marion America 250 is inviting residents and visitors to “save the date” for an upcoming weekend of patriotism, history, music, and family fun during the “Red, White, & YOU” Weekend, taking place July 16–19 throughout Marion.
The celebration will feature community traditions, presidential history, live entertainment, and activities for all ages as Marion continues commemorating America’s 250th anniversary with this capstone weekend.
Co-chair for the America 250 Marion steering committee, Kate McCleese, serves as the program director for Marion Community Foundation. McCleese shared many of these activities are funded through a special grant program through the Marion Community Foundation.
“Marion Community Foundation is proud to invest in our community’s spirit through America 250,” said McCleese. “By funding the events of this capstone weekend, we are not just celebrating our past; we are empowering our local organizations to create a lasting legacy of pride and ensuring these historic experiences are accessible to all of our neighbors.”
The weekend kicks off on Thursday, July 16, at 4:30 p.m. as Third Thursday goes red, white, and blue in downtown Marion. Families can enjoy live music, bounce houses, vendor tents, food trucks, and a festive community atmosphere that is sure to get the party started.
On Friday, July 17, beginning at 4 p.m., the Harding Home and Presidential Library & Museum will host a Homecoming Picnic celebrating President Warren G. Harding and Marion’s presidential legacy. The evening includes TED-style talks about the Harding presidency, period children’s games, and live music. Food and ice cream will be available for purchase. In conjunction with the picnic, Etowah, which many know as King’s Mansion, will be open for tours, talks, and treats.
Saturday’s events begin at 10:30 a.m. with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Harding Memorial led by military personnel in honor of President and Mrs. Harding and their service to the nation.
At noon on Saturday, families are invited to the “O-H-I-Ohhhh What a Birthday Celebration” Block Party at The Explore-It-Torium. The event will feature music, games, food, and free admission to the children’s museum.
Saturday evening concludes with a special concert at the historic Marion Palace Theatre as Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives take the stage at 7:30 p.m.
The celebration continues Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m. with an old-fashioned ice cream social at the Marion Women’s Club Home. Guests can enjoy live music, lawn games, tours of the historic home, and ice cream in a nostalgic community setting.
The weekend concludes with a patriotic concert presented by United in Harmony at McKinley Park, bringing the community together through music and celebration.
“Red, White, & YOU Weekend is designed to celebrate not only America’s story, but Marion’s chapter in that story and the people who continue to shape it,” said Bev Ford, co-chair of the America 250 Steering Committee. “From history and music to family activities and community traditions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
For updates, ticket information, and additional event details, follow Marion America 250 on the Marion Area Convention and Visitors Bureau website and social media.