Gov. Mike Kehoe Proclaimed the Missouri State Fair a “Great American Fair,” officially kicking off Missouri’s America 250 celebration. 

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday Gov. Mike Kehoe proudly launched Show-Me America 250, a statewide initiative honoring the people, stories, and spirit that define our nation on Aug. 7. 

"The state of Missouri shares a critical piece in the story of America, from the Louisiana Purchase to our pivotal role in westward expansion," said Kehoe. "As we approach this monumental 250th anniversary, it is a perfect opportunity for us to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to the future of our state and nation. We are excited to invite all Missourians to join us in this historic celebration." 

Gov. Kehoe officially launched the Show-Me America 250 during the opening ceremony of the 2025 Missouri State Fair, where he issued a proclamation declaring the fair a “Great American Fair” and kicked off the state’s role in President Donald Trump's national America 250 campaign. 

Visitors of the Missouri State Fair can begin the celebration by taking in the drone show featuring the Show-Me America 250 logo or interact with the custom photo cutouts displayed across the fairgrounds for a chance to step into history.

The celebration will culminate on July 4, 2026, with the America 250 Missouri Commission overseeing programming and public engagement. Organized under three core pillars, the initiative aims to:

• Educate: support civic education and patriotic learning in schools, with contests, curriculum tie-ins, and partnerships that prioritize activities related to the Charters of Freedom such as the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
• Engage: encourage community involvement through patriotic events and activities such as veteran storytelling, flag programs, and community service challenges.
• Celebrate: host public events to commemorate major milestones in our nation’s history including the 4th of July, the Battle of Fort San Carlos, and the American Revolution.

The newly launched website, showme250.mo.gov, will serve as the central hub for information regarding the State of Missouri’s America 250 activities including upcoming events, relevant resources, and ways to get involved locally.  

About the America 250 Missouri Commission: The principal purpose of the America 250 Missouri Commission shall be to plan, promote, and implement where appropriate public celebrations and commemorations of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America

To contact the commission, email ShowMeAmerica250@oa.mo.gov.