2026 rings in America's 250th anniversary, a once-in-a-lifetime milestone with celebrations taking place across the country—including the Laurel Highlands.
Spanning Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties, the Laurel Highlands area has played a pivotal role in American history, serving as the stage for acts of heroism from the French and Indian War to the September 11 attacks and beyond.
To mark America’s 250th anniversary, the Laurel Highlands will serve as a stage once again: this time for commemorative events, community art displays, and immersive experiences to help the whole family ring in 250 more years of freedom. Explore everything happening across the region this year.
Bells Across PA: A Unique Public Art Trail
The Liberty Bell is one of Pennsylvania's most iconic symbols of freedom, and this year, all 67 counties across the state have the chance to claim their own piece of that legacy. America250PA's Bells Across Pennsylvania invited each county to purchase a custom, artist-designed Liberty Bell replica, bringing the Bell's enduring spirit to communities from Erie to Philadelphia.
In the Laurel Highlands, four distinct bells celebrate the region’s unique stories. “Revolution to Resilience,” on view at the Fayette County Courthouse in Uniontown, features a textile collage highlighting Fayette County’s craftsmanship and artistic spirit.
“Unending Spirit,” on view at the Somerset County Annex Building, focuses on the county’s history, landscapes, and culture through the traditional art of papercutting: an intricate art form that hearkens back to Pennsylvania’s early settlers.
In Westmoreland County, two bells highlight the area’s history and community. Located at the Roberts Trailhead of the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in Murrysville, “MORE Energy in Westmoreland” is a panoramic painting that blends the county’s energy sources with its scenic natural vistas. Unfolding through all four seasons, it illustrates the constant movement of life and energy.
“There’s MORE in Westmoreland” pays tribute to Westmoreland’s waterways, wildlife, and historic landmarks. Displayed in the sculpture garden of the Westmoreland Museum of American Art in Greensburg, this mosaic bell features hundreds of pieces of hand-cut glass, with a base made from coal and regional rock layers to pay homage to Westmoreland’s steel workers.
After visiting the bells, download the Liberty Bell coloring page and let your kids create their own design.
Fayette County: From Revolution to Resilience
In many ways, Fayette County set the stage for the American Revolution. At Fort Necessity in 1754, 22-year-old George Washington commanded his first battle. The action launched the French and Indian War, culminating in the removal of French powers from North America and serving as a training ground for America’s first military forces.
Today, kids can follow the Fionna Fayette character to historic Fayette sites like Fort Necessity. Through July 2026, Fionna will be journeying across the county in a patriotic celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Join her for a walk across the now quiet battlefield or down Braddock’s Road, where troops transported siege artillery and wagons between Maryland and Pittsburgh. It’s a chance to follow in the footsteps of some of America’s first patriots.
Somerset County: America's County Marks a Double Milestone
In Somerset County, 2026 marks two important anniversaries: America’s bicentennial and the 25th commemoration of Flight 93. The hijacked plane crash landed in Somerset County on September 11, 2001 after passengers heroically fought back against their attackers.
A series of events, planned in partnership with the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Association Convention, will honor both America’s founders and its modern-day heroes. The commemoration kicks off August 5 with a community concert at Somerset Area High School, followed by a special Concert for Heroes at Laurel Arts.
Then, in a solemn tribute to the heroes of Flight 93, fire companies will take part in a procession from Somerset to the Flight 93 National Memorial. The event will also feature a luminary service at the memorial, a performance by the Johnstown Symphony, and a flag service honoring firefighters. The week culminates in a community celebration on Saturday that will include a parade, drone show, and fireworks.
Westmoreland County: Resolve Then and Now
More than a year before the Declaration of Independence was penned, frontier settlers in Westmoreland County were already declaring their own independence. In the Hanna’s Town Resolves, signed on May 16, 1775, settlers stated their willingness to fight against British rule.
Today, Westmoreland County’s resolve is as strong as ever. At Fort Ligonier, reenactments, cannon fire, and costumed interpreters tell the story of the French and Indian War, a conflict that paved the way for the American Revolution. The museum at Fort Ligonier houses many of George Washington’s artifacts.
Experience another kind of revolution at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art, where the Steel Valley Visions Immersive Experience takes visitors into western Pennsylvania’s Big Steel Era. Step into the world of the Industrial Revolution through multi-projection visuals, surround sound, and animated art based around the museum’s collection of traditional paintings. The exhibit is free and open to walk-ins during business hours.
Plan Your Visit
America’s 250th anniversary is shaping up to be a milestone year in Laurel Highlands. To take advantage of all the area’s family-friendly happenings, check out the full calendar of events.
And if you’re looking to join in the larger statewide or national celebrations, head to America250PA.org and America250.org. Many of the 250 celebrations are free or low-cost, offering a great way for families to enjoy and commemorate this milestone year.
For the ultimate America 250 experience in Laurel Highlands, take a road trip across Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties. The perfect itinerary combines cultural experiences like Bells Across Pennsylvania and Steel Valley Visions with historic sites like Fort Necessity and the Flight 93 National Memorial. That way, you can immerse yourself in Laurel Highland’s rich heritage and legacy of heroism while celebrating the freedoms we enjoy today.
Make History with Us
Laurel Highlands isn’t just a place to learn about history. It’s a place where, 250 years after America’s founding, history is still being made. As you make your own history in Laurel Highlands, don’t forget to share your experiences on social media with the hashtags #America250, #America250PA, and #LaurelHighlands—so we can all celebrate with you.
Join the celebrations and book your stay in Laurel Highlands.
