America 250 in Muskegon
March 26, 2026
America250
Is a nationwide initiative celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of Declaration of Independence
America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. America250 aims to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. Explore events happening around Michigan.
Celebrating America 250 in Muskegon County
Our community event calendar hosted on the VisitMuskegon website has a webpage dedicated specifically to America250 events. You can see many events already planned including the White Lake Area 4th of July Parade: America 250 Celebration, Walking Muskegon Military Tours, Car Shows, An American Band Salute, and many more events still in the works!
City of Muskegon Celebrates America 250
Patriotic Tie Dye at Smith-Ryerson Park
June 24 | 11 -12PM | Smith-Ryerson Park
Create a red, white, and blue design just in time for the Independence Day holiday at Smith-Ryerson Park.
4th of July: 250th Celebration + Fireworks
July 4 | 8-10 PM | Heritage Landing
Live DJ and food vendors following by fireworks at 10:20 PM.
Election Trailer in the Community
The Muskegon Election team is hitting the road! Our mobile Election Trailer will be visiting all four wards across various locations and dates to help residents register to vote, request absentee ballots, and get answers to their election questions. Click on one of the upcoming dates below to find a location near you or view the entire event series by visiting: muskegon-mi.gov/series/election-trailer/
Muskegon 250 Years Ago
During America’s fight for independence Muskegon was beyond the front lines. At the time, Great Britain claimed the land and controlled the fur trade. The fur trade was centered through the forts in Michigan: Fort St Joseph, Fort Detroit, and Fort Michilimackinac. In 1776, Muskegon County was home to the Ottawa Tribe, who came for the rich natural resources the area provided. The only account of British activity in the area during the war is when the sloop H.M.S. Felicity visited to firm up relations with the Ottawa and local fur traders. The Ottawa sided with the British in the American Revolution, and it is possible local Ottawa fought in frontier battles further east. Following the war, the area was ceded to the Americans, although British interests still controlled the fur trade until later in history, and the Ottawa remained.
Thanks to Patrick Horn, Program Manager at the Lakeshore Museum Center