St. Pete rolls out America250 celebration ahead of nation’s 250th birthday

St. Petersburg is rolling out a series of free events and activities to mark America’s 250th anniversary.

The initiative will include public events, educational programs and community activities tied to the nation’s semiquincentennial on July 4.

“America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate our nation’s guiding ideals while recognizing the people and communities who bring those ideals to life every day,” Mayor Ken Welch said.

“In St. Petersburg, we honor our history, embrace our diversity, and look ahead with optimism and purpose. As we commemorate this historic milestone, we do so as one community  proud of who we are and excited for what we will build together. We Are St. Pete.”

The city indicates the programming is aimed at highlighting St. Petersburg’s people, history and civic identity, and that the initiative is guided by Welch’s “Pillars for Progress.”

A ceremonial America250 flag raising is scheduled for July 1 at 9 a.m. at St. Petersburg City Hall. Welch and city officials are expected to attend.

Independence Day kicks off with the Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital St. Pete Pier Run, a 4-mile walk/run with race waves beginning at 6:15 a.m. and 7:45 a.m. on July 4.

The city’s sixth annual “The Fourth” Independence Day Celebration takes place at the St. Pete Pier in the evening hours. The free, family-friendly event will run from 4-10 p.m. and will include live music, a craft beer garden, an Uncle Sam’s Market, a Family Fun Zone, food vendors, roaming entertainment and other activities.

The celebration will conclude with the city’s signature fireworks show at 9 p.m., which is expected to be larger than usual this year in honor of the 250th anniversary.

Other programming is already underway. The St. Petersburg Library System is offering online America250 themed reading lists and educational resources focused on U.S. history, civic engagement and the American experience.

The city is also planning a Parks and Recreation youth poster display this Summer, featuring selected artwork from nearly 3,000 youth across 13 city recreation centers and programs. The posters celebrate America and St. Petersburg, and will be displayed at city facilities throughout the Summer.

The America250 observance will also extend into the Fall with the city’s 13th annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11. As part of that ceremony, Welch will recognize one or more outstanding local veterans with the city’s Honored Veteran Award.

Additional America250 events and program details may be announced throughout the year. All America250 events are free and open to the public, though some activities like the St. Pete Pier Run require registration and a fee.