Commemorating America’s 250th anniversary

As an anchor institution in northwest Ohio committed to building strong communities and supporting civic engagement, Bowling Green State University is honoring America’s 250th anniversary by hosting numerous events and initiatives on and around campus throughout 2026 and 2027.

From featured authors and speakers to a community quilt project and a Falcon Marching Band performance in Put-in-Bay, Bowling Green is recognizing the milestone anniversary in fun and engaging ways for all in the learning and greater community to enjoy.

Summer events

Fall & 2027 events

Toledo Blade Editorial: Great job, BGSU

Bowling Green State University is more than living up to its slogan “a public university for the public good,” with creation of the CIVICs 250 Scholars program.

BGSU Falcon Marching Band to perform during one-of-a-kind Declaration 250 event at Put-In-Bay, celebrating America's independence

The BGSU band will parade and perform through the village before taking part in the day's fireworks-filled main concert at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

BGSU CIVICS 250 program empowers teachers to inspire the next generation of citizens

This summer, 27 educators completed the first seminar in a three-year initiative designed to enhance civics and history instruction across northwest Ohio.

BGSU secures National Endowment for the Arts grant to commemorate America 250 through the story of Betsy Ross

BGSU and Wood County are launching a year-long public recognition of America’s 250th birthday featuring community events, historical book talks and an interactive quilt project.

BGSU Planetarium recognizes America’s 250th anniversary with free July speaker series

Presentations and planetarium shows will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night from July 13-31.