PENNSYLVANIA — Bradford Area Alliance was awarded a $20,000 grant toward McKean County’s America250 celebrations, which will include a parade and a concert with fireworks.

The funding comes from America250PA’s second Semiquincentennial Grant Round.

Representatives said the funding will support the two signature 2026 events — the McKean County Grand Celebration Parade on June 20 and a patriotic concert with fireworks on July 2 — and allow the Alliance to develop a dynamic interactive educational display commemorating McKean County’s lasting contributions to Pennsylvania and the nation.

“We are excited to contribute to Pennsylvania’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence — and to engage our neighbors in meaningful ways that reflect our shared values while pointing toward a hopeful future,” said Darren Litz, representative for the America250PA – McKean County and Bradford Creative and Performing Arts Center (BCPAC) executive director.

The display will showcase McKean County’s contributions to the commonwealth, the nation and the world, Litz said. Rooted in the history and character of McKean County, it will share the stories, achievements and legacy of the region while underscoring Pennsylvania’s central role in the founding and growth of our nation.

The display will travel throughout the county, connecting with students, families and community members through schools, civic groups and local heritage events. After the semiquincentennial, it will become a permanent feature at the McKean County Historical Society’s Old Jail Museum in Smethport, serving as a long-term resource for education and reflection. By creating shared experiences that link past, present and future, the project aims to strengthen community pride and invite all generations to take part in this historic commemoration.

The concert and parade “will honor the rich heritage of McKean County — proudly named after Thomas McKean, a signer of the Declaration of Independence — and create meaningful, communitywide moments of connection and celebration,” Litz said. The celebrations will include school marching bands, themed floats, live music and a professional fireworks show to create an atmosphere of pride and unity while honoring Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding and future. Further details will be announced in the months ahead.

“The McKean County team aims to engage our communities in a year-long commemoration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, fostering a sense of unity, pride and hope while showcasing the unique contributions of McKean County to the American story,” Litz said. “By honoring this anniversary, we are committed to celebrating the stories, traditions and cultural legacies that have shaped our county’s history. We look to honor the people, places and events that have shaped our local identity as part of our national identity. Our county seeks to use the 250th celebration as a platform for envisioning a brighter future. Through the interactive display, parade, and patriotic concert and fireworks show we hope to inspire a new generation to be active, engaged citizens and to carry forward the principles of freedom, equality and opportunity that are the foundation of our great nation.”

The initiatives provide a platform to showcase McKean County as a vibrant place to live, work, and explore, Alliance officials said. By aligning with the broader America250PA vision, this will highlight the county’s rich heritage and dynamic communities to a wider audience. Ultimately, the goal is to increase awareness of McKean County’s assets, attract positive attention and create momentum for future opportunities.

In addition to Litz, the America250PA – McKean County Leadership Team includes Jessie Kerr, Ainslee Litz, Christian Smith, Debbie Deane, Erin Waugaman, Kristina Luzzi, Katherine Moyer, Robert Boser, Sarah Boser, Dana Crisp, Rustin Lippincott and Sarah Tingley.

“It’s thrilling to see so many Pennsylvania communities and organizations stepping up with meaningful, engaging, and inspiring plans as we approach the Semiquincentennial,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. “These grants are giving Pennsylvanians the tools to come together, remember where we’ve been and imagine what comes next. America250PA is incredibly proud to support this work, and grateful to Gov. (Josh) Shapiro and the General Assembly for making it possible.”

For more information about the Semiquincentennial Grants, visit america250pa.org/Semiquin_Grants.

Sponsors and supporting philanthropic organizations of the America250PA – McKean County initiative include Blaisdell Foundation, Bradford Area Alliance, BCPAC and Zippo Manufacturing Co. The initiative remains committed to strengthening ties with current sponsors while welcoming further collaboration, officials said.

To learn more about local celebrations or if interested in volunteering, visit mckeancounty.america250pa.org.

The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the General Assembly and governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.