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MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

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Summer Activations & Can’t Miss Events for the 250th

*Header image credit: C.A.R.S. located in Culpeper, VA

America’s 250th anniversary is inspiring communities across the Mid-Atlantic to celebrate in unforgettable ways. From living history and waterfront festivals to immersive art experiences and spectacular drone shows, these destinations are inviting visitors to experience the people, places, and stories that shaped our nation.

Add these can’t-miss activations to your summer travel plans.

July 18 | Juniata River Valley, Pennsylvania

America250PA Mifflin County Parade

Community pride takes center stage during this patriotic parade celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Marching bands, veterans, local organizations, and hometown traditions make this a memorable summer event for visitors and residents alike.

August | Somerset County, Pennsylvania

America 250 & Flight 93 Commemorative Events

Throughout August, Somerset County commemorates America’s 250th anniversary while honoring the 25th anniversary of Flight 93. A month of special programming includes military ceremonies, a Concert for Heroes, memorial services, community celebrations, parades, drone shows, and fireworks that pay tribute to generations of American courage and sacrifice.

August 1 | Calvert County, Maryland

4th Annual Neon Night 5K

Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum comes alive after dark for this glowing community event. The Neon Night 5K combines fitness, family fun, and festive summer energy while serving as another highlight of Calvert County’s America 250 celebration.

All Summer Long | Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Be Revolutionary: America 250 Exploration Trail

Discover more than 50 historic, cultural, and community sites through this free interactive mobile trail. Visitors can explore at their own pace, check in at participating locations, uncover Revolutionary stories, and earn prizes while experiencing the places where America’s story began.

While you’re in Annapolis, don’t miss She Speaks: Black Women Artists and the Power of Historical Memory at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum, or enjoy colonial-inspired cocktails at Drummers Lot inside the Historic Inns of Annapolis.

All Summer Long | Talbot County, Maryland

Celebrate America 250 in St. Michaels

Beginning around Flag Day and continuing throughout the season, the historic waterfront town of St. Michaels is adorned in patriotic décor while hosting concerts, community celebrations, heritage programming, and waterfront experiences that capture the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary.

Select Summer Dates | Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

Liberty Ignited: A Lehigh Valley Salute to America 250

One of the region’s signature celebrations, Liberty Ignited features a choreographed drone show with more than 250 drones synchronized to music, followed by the largest fireworks display in Coca-Cola Park history. It’s an unforgettable way to celebrate America’s milestone anniversary.

Plan Your Next Adventure

Whether you’re exploring a Revolutionary battlefield, watching fireworks over the Chesapeake Bay, experiencing living history, or looking skyward during a spectacular drone show, the Mid-Atlantic is filled with opportunities to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Start planning your journey today and discover why this summer is the perfect time to experience the places where history continues to come alive.

Frank Lloyd Wright Field Office Museum opens June 27

We’re proud to introduce the only Frank Lloyd Wright Field Office Museum—a groundbreaking “museum within a museum”

It includes Wright’s original San Francisco field office, meticulously reassembled on our Erie campus in 2021. This immersive new experience offers the most comprehensive look yet at Wright’s life and work—revealing not just the architect, but the person behind the designs. Because to truly appreciate Wright’s creations, you have to understand the man himself.

Step into a 2,700-square-foot interactive space where history comes alive through:

  • Rare artifacts & personal letters
  • Never-before-seen memorabilia
  • Interactive exhibits & hands-on experiences
  • Audio and video of Wright sharing his ideas and creative philosophy

The original San Francisco field office—used by Wright from 1951–1959—has already become one of our most popular attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Now, there’s even more to explore.

Join us in Erie and experience Wright like never before.

Image courtesy of the Hagen History Center

 

Sweet Stroll returns to Adams County, PA

GETTYSBURG, Pennsylvania – Call it the sweet taste of success.

Destination Gettysburg is bringing back its summer trail that features everything from homemade ice cream and locally roasted coffee to handcrafted chocolates and baked goods.

The Adams County Sweet Stroll, which debuted in 2025, returns July 1 and includes more than a dozen businesses known for their delicious treats across Adams County and beyond.

“Last year was the first for this experience, and it was very successful. But we weren’t surprised. After all, who doesn’t enjoy something sweet?” Destination Gettysburg President and CEO Karl Pietrzak said.

Starting July 1, participants can sign up for the trail’s free digital passport at https://destinationgettysburg.com/adams-county-sweet-stroll/ to track their visits and qualify for prizes.

Participating locations include:

  • Caledonia Cafe
  • Cone Sweet Cone
  • Cottage Creperie
  • Gettysburg Chocolate Market
  • Gettysburg Cookie Company
  • Kilwin’s Chocolates, Fudge & Ice Cream
  • Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium
  • G’s Ice Cream
  • Ragged Edge Coffee House
  • Rita’s of Gettysburg
  • Starbucks at Hotel Gettysburg
  • Sweeet! The Candy Store
  • Victoria’s Casita Bakery

Pietrzak said that he expects the limited-time trail, which is available through Aug. 31, to increase visitation to Gettysburg and Adams County during the months of July and August. Last year, there were 912 check-ins at locations along the trail, and more than 100 ZIP codes were represented by passport holders.

“We’re excited to participate in the Sweet Stroll again this year, because last year we saw so many new customers, both locals and visitors alike,” said Nicole Bucher, owner of Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium in Orrtanna. “We appreciate it’s a county-wide trail that encourages people to enjoy treats in Gettysburg and find new favorites throughout the greater area that they may not otherwise have explored.”

Adventures for All Abilities

Greetings MATPRA Media Partners,

MATPRA distributes press releases designed to inspire media coverage of the Mid-Atlantic region. We plan topics months in advance to accommodate longer lead times. If you have suggestions for future topics, we’d love to hear them! Please email ([email protected]).

Rich in scenic landscapes, vibrant communities, and unforgettable outdoor experiences, the Mid-Atlantic is making adventure more accessible through inclusive design, accessible trails, and adaptive recreation programs that help visitors of all abilities connect with the region’s natural wonders.

MARYLAND

Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (MD)
Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) is the nation’s premier adaptive sailing program, recognized for providing world class access to the Chesapeake Bay for people with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities. With a fleet of state-of-the-art adaptive sailboats and a fully accessible marina, CRAB is considered a model for inclusive recreation across the U.S. Their new Adaptive Boating Center — the first of its kind in the country — reinforces CRAB’s reputation as a leader in accessible adventure and makes Annapolis one of the best places in the nation for all abilities to get on the water.
Visit Annapolis

Calvert County (MD)
Calvert County offers outdoor adventures for visitors of all abilities. Accessible features include inclusive playground equipment at Dunkirk District Park in Dunkirk and Hallowing Point Park in Prince Frederick, a paved walkway to the Woodland Indian Village at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum in St. Leonard, and elevator access to both floors of the Bayside History Museum in North Beach. Wm. B. Tennison Cruises at Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons can provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities with reasonable notice. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to verify accessibility details and request any needed accommodations before visiting.
Visit Calvert

Harford County (MD)
In Harford County, outdoor adventure is designed with everyone in mind. From stroller and wheelchair-friendly park trails to engaging sensory experiences, we are proud to offer welcoming spaces for visitors of all abilities. Inclusive attractions such as Luckiest Light Art Studio in Havre de Grace, Stoneview Farm in Darlington, and We Rock the Spectrum Forest Hill champion accessible, hands-on experiences that celebrate creativity, connection, and exploration. Through adaptive recreation programs and thoughtful outdoor design, Harford County continues to embrace inclusive travel; ensuring every visitor can discover nature, play, and possibility in ways that feel comfortable, empowering, and fun for the whole family.
Hello Harford

Kent County (MD)
Kent County offers a variety of accessible options for visitors of all abilities. Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge features flat, well-maintained trails ideal for walking, wheelchairs, and strollers, with beautiful views of wildlife and the Chesapeake Bay. In Chestertown, the Rails to Trails system provides a smooth, scenic route connecting neighborhoods and downtown amenities. The Sultana Education Foundation offers inclusive programs and hands-on experiences designed to engage learners of all ages. Additionally, the Kent Cultural Alliance supports accessible arts programming, exhibits, and events, ensuring that Kent County’s natural, educational, and cultural experiences are welcoming and inclusive for everyone.
Kent County Tourism

PENNSYLVANIA

Butler County (PA)
Making tourist attractions accessible is an ongoing goal of Experience Butler County, PA. Moraine State Park features several ADA-accessible activities, including the fishing pier at McDanels Boat Launch and the Preston Pearl boat tour. The Wood Whisper Trail at Jennings Environmental Education Center offers another accessible nature experience, featuring a gentle, half-mile path. Steele’s Brushes and Ceramics offers increased accessibility for their pottery classes with the inclusion of a wheelchair accessible pottery wheel. We invited travel agent and influencer Jamie Santillo to showcase wheel-chair accessible spaces in our County; her personal experience can be read about on our website.
Photo Credit: Layla Joseph
Experience Butler County

Huntingdon County (PA)
Accessible adventures await in the Raystown Lake Region. Start with scenic views from the Raystown Dam Pagoda and nearby Ridenour Overlook, both easy to reach. Refuel at Standing Stone Coffee Company before exploring Lincoln Caverns & Whisper Rocks, where advance arrangements allow accessible underground experiences. Relax with comfortable, welcoming lodging and dining options designed for all visitors. The next day, stroll Seven Points Recreation Area and the smooth Greenside Pathway before boarding the East Broad Top Railroad, where coach lifts make the countryside journey inclusive. Each stop offers beauty, history and fun for all throughout the region.
Raystown Lake Region

Juniata River Valley (PA)
Port Royal Speedway is making sure the thrill of race night is accessible to everyone. The grandstands include designated wheelchair spaces so guests can enjoy a great view of the action, and the tunnel beneath the racetrack now provides convenient access to the infield. Designed with mobility in mind, the tunnel makes it easier than ever for wheelchair users and guests with mobility challenges to move around the grounds. Now more fans can get closer to the sights, sounds, and heart-pounding excitement of racing at one of the East Coast’s top dirt tracks.
Mifflin Juniata Counties (PA)

Lancaster County (PA)
Lancaster Conservancy oversees three universal access trails, the most recently installed of which is the Lloyd Clark Trail at Clark Nature Preserve. This trail provides opportunities for those with mobility concerns or using wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, or other such devices to explore the meadow & woods and look out over a quintessential river hills vista.
Discover Lancaster

York County (PA)
Experience art without walls at Mural Park in York’s Royal Square District. More than 30 larger-than-life murals transform historic buildings into a vibrant outdoor gallery that is free, easy to navigate, and accessible to all. From bold, colorful works to interactive murals with eye-catching 3D effects, every turn offers a new photo opportunity and a chance to experience creativity in the heart of downtown York.
Explore York

VIRGINIA

Danville and Pittsylvania County (VA)
The Riverwalk Trail in Danville’s River District offers an inviting, accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all ages and abilities. Stretching 13 miles along the scenic Dan River, this paved trail winds through parks and SoSi’s historic downtown, with easy access to restaurants, retailers, and attractions like the Danville Science Center, Community Market, and Golden Leaf Bistro. The trail features smooth asphalt and wooden bridge surfaces with railings and includes designated van‑accessible parking. With river views, wildlife sightings, and a well‑maintained path, the Riverwalk is ideal for families, walkers, runners, cyclists, and photo‑ops at the newest LOVEworks sign.
Visit SoSi

Loudoun County (VA)
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Historic Douglass High School campus is located on the site of the Black school that operated in Leesburg from 1941-1968. On top of statues, photos and displays highlighting Loudoun’s Black history, the site features an ADA Accessible Trail through woodlands and a playground with ADA surfaces and inclusive features. The playground, a themed African American history experience for children of all abilities, features a replica of Selma Bridge and a Hall of Heroes structure modeled on the shape of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC.
Visit Loudon

Richmond Region (VA)
In the Richmond Region, there are adventures for everyone. Local non-profit Beyond Boundaries offers guided outdoor experiences—from kayaking to hiking—tailored for individuals with disabilities, veterans, and youth from historically marginalized communities. At Park 365, an all-abilities playground by SOAR365, kids and adults can explore inclusive equipment and sensory-friendly spaces year-round. And at Pocahontas State Park, EnChroma-adapted viewfinders let colorblind visitors experience the full spectrum of Virginia’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a tranquil trail, the Richmond Region’s commitment to accessible design ensures the outdoors are open to all.
Photo Credit: Learners and Makers & Visit Richmond Virginia VA
Visit Richmond

Waynesboro (VA)
Blue Ridge Packs and Tracks is a nonprofit dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible for individuals with disabilities. Through its free track chair program, the organization provides all-terrain mobility devices that empower users to explore rugged trails, including portions of the scenic Blue Ridge Tunnel. With trained volunteers offering support, participants experience the healing power of nature in a safe, inclusive environment. By removing physical barriers, the program expands access to beloved public spaces throughout the Rockfish Valley and Shenandoah Valley. Chairs can be reserved online at no cost, thanks to generous donors and volunteers.
Visit Waynesboro

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a collaborative network of tourism partners across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The alliance is dedicated to supporting travel journalists by providing resources that transcend geographic boundaries, much like travelers themselves. By identifying common themes and regional highlights, MATPRA offers a wealth of story ideas for journalists interested in showcasing the diverse destinations of the Mid-Atlantic region as a unified whole. For more information, visit matpra.org.

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Celebrate Independence Day, America’s 250th in Gettysburg

Visitors to Gettysburg can experience five unforgettable days in early July as one of America’s most historic towns comes alive with Civil War reenactments, historical programs, live entertainment, appearances by acclaimed actor Stephen Lang, and fireworks in celebration of Independence Day.

Set against the backdrop of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this year’s holiday commemoration, from July 1 to 5, carries added significance. Founded in 1776, the nation faced its greatest test “four score and seven years” later, when the Union’s pivotal victory at the Battle of Gettysburg helped preserve the United States and redefine its future.

“Gettysburg is more than a destination; it’s a place where our nation’s story comes into focus,” said Karl Pietrzak, President & CEO of Destination Gettysburg. “As we mark 250 years of American independence, we invite visitors to stand where history was made and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and ideals that shaped our country.”

The marquee event of the celebration is the Battle of Gettysburg 163rd Anniversary Reenactment at Historic Daniel Lady Farm. The three-day event, from July 3 to 5, features 1,000 reenactors, living historians, military camps, artillery and cavalry demonstrations, and sutler tents. The historic 146-acre farm served as Maj. Gen. Edward Johnson’s staging area for the Confederate attack on Culp’s Hill and was used as a Confederate field hospital during the battle.

On Independence Day, visitors can experience “A Gettysburg Fourth” – a full day of energy, music, and hometown pride. The celebration features food vendors, family activities, musical performances including the 90-member U.S. Army Field Band, and an extended fireworks display to end the day’s festivities.

Other highlights of the five-day celebration include:

  • Wednesday, July 1
    • Fire a Civil War rifle or cannon at Beyond the Battle Museum.
    • “Fields of Fire: Gettysburg’s First Day Farms” explores the opening hours of the battle and the families caught in the chaos.
  • Wednesday, July 1 to Sunday, July 5
    • “One Hundred Nights of Taps” at Gettysburg National Cemetery features volunteer buglers and quiet reflection each evening. The program continues through Labor Day.
  • Thursday, July 2
    • “Behind Union Lines: An Exclusive Look at the Jacob Weikert Farm and Field Hospital” explores the critical Civil War site.
    • Sneak preview of the Jack and Julia Hopkins House provides a look at the restoration of the future site of Gettysburg’s Black History Museum.
    •  “Music, Memories & the Civilian Experience” at The Barn Resort features the sights, sounds, and stories of the Civil War homefront.
  • Friday, July 3
    •  “Gettysburg 1863” Meet and Greet at Shriver House Museum features actor Stephen Lang and film director Bo Brinkman.
    •  “The Gettysburg Book: A Father, Son & The Killer Angels” documentary will be shown at The Majestic Theater and followed by a panel discussion featuring the filmmakers, bestselling author Jeff Shaara, and narrator Stephen Lang.
  • Saturday, July 4
    • “Flutes on the Fourth” outside Hotel Gettysburg features dozens of musicians from across the country performing patriotic and Civil War songs.
    • “Confederates Take the Shriver House” features guided tours, reenactors, and immersive scenes throughout the historic home.
    • Carroll Valley 250th Independence Celebration features live music, food vendors, recognition of veterans and first responders, and a fireworks display at Liberty Mountain Resort.

A complete list of events, can be found here.

Road Trip to the Revolution: Historic Stops to Experience America’s Story

America’s 250th anniversary is inspiring travelers to rediscover the places where the nation’s story began. From colonial capitals and Revolutionary landmarks to preserved landscapes and living history experiences, the Mid Atlantic offers countless opportunities to step back in time while enjoying vibrant communities today.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or building the ultimate Revolutionary Road Trip, these destinations invite visitors to experience the people, places, and stories that shaped America.

Hampton, Virginia

History comes alive in Hampton, one of America’s oldest continuously inhabited English settlements. During the nation’s Semiquincentennial, visitors can experience special cultural programming celebrating America’s diverse heritage, including events like the Virginia Drumline Festival, which brings together marching bands and drum corps from across the East Coast in a celebration of unity, music, and community. Hampton’s rich colonial roots, waterfront setting, and year round historic attractions make it a natural stop on any Revolutionary journey.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

A day in Lancaster County blends Revolutionary history with authentic Pennsylvania heritage. Ride aboard the Strasburg Rail Road, America’s oldest operating steam railroad, before learning about the traditions of the nation’s oldest Amish settlement. Continue to the Stevens & Smith Center to explore the evolving stories of freedom and opportunity, then visit Historic Rock Ford, the home of Revolutionary War General Edward Hand and one of Lancaster’s signature America250 sites.

Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Maryland

With more original 18th century buildings than any other U.S. city, Annapolis offers visitors an immersive Revolutionary experience. Walk the same streets where George Washington resigned his commission, tour the Maryland State House where the Treaty of Paris was ratified, and follow the Be Revolutionary: America 250 Exploration Trail connecting more than 50 historic sites throughout the region. Guided walking tours, narrated cruises, museums, taverns, and waterfront experiences showcase how Annapolis helped shape the birth of the nation.

Calvert County, Maryland

Southern Maryland’s Revolutionary stories come to life in Calvert County through engaging museum experiences and local heritage sites. Visitors can explore the Farmers, Patriots & Traitors: Southern Maryland and the War of 1812 exhibit at the Calvert Marine Museum, where interactive displays reveal the difficult choices residents faced during the years following the Revolution. It’s an opportunity to better understand how ordinary citizens navigated extraordinary moments in American history.

Talbot County, Maryland

While America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Talbot County is commemorating its own remarkable 365 year history. Explore America250 themed exhibitions at the Academy Art Museum before venturing to Oxford, one of Maryland’s oldest towns, founded in 1683. Stroll streets lined with historic homes, visit colonial landmarks, and ride the iconic Oxford Bellevue Ferry for a glimpse into the region’s enduring maritime heritage.

Culpeper, Virginia

Located in the heart of Virginia’s Piedmont, Culpeper offers visitors an authentic Revolutionary War experience where history is woven into everyday life. Begin at the Museum of Culpeper History to discover how the region served as a vital military crossroads and supply center during the Revolution. Wander Historic Downtown Culpeper, where 18th century streets and architecture tell the story of a thriving colonial community.

Continue to Yowell Meadow Park, once the mustering grounds of the famed Culpeper Minutemen, Virginia’s legendary riflemen known for their marksmanship and iconic rattlesnake flag. Visitors can also explore nearby churches, tavern sites, historic markers, and scenic country roads that trace the footsteps of Revolutionary soldiers. Throughout the America 250 commemoration, Culpeper is expanding its heritage experiences through interpretive exhibits, storytelling initiatives, special events, and immersive programs that invite travelers to discover the community’s pivotal role in securing American independence.

Start Planning Your Revolutionary Journey

These destinations remind us that the story of America’s founding extends far beyond a single battlefield or famous landmark. Every community offers its own unique perspective on the people, places, and events that shaped our nation.

As the America 250 commemoration continues, there has never been a better time to hit the road, explore the Mid Atlantic, and experience the Revolution where history happened.