USDA x Freedom 250: Celebrating America’s Agricultural Heritage
As the United States marks 250 years of independence, USDA is leading national Freedom 250 celebrations through agriculture, forestry, and rural heritage. From farmers markets to state fairs to patriotic displays across the heartland, USDA is honoring the people and places that feed and fuel our nation.
Honoring America’s Roots Through Agriculture
USDA is advancing a series of major Freedom 250 initiatives that highlight the essential role of agriculture in America’s story. These efforts bring together farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and partners nationwide to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Explore Initiatives
- The Great American Farmers Market
Showcasing the Heart of American Agriculture
Held on the National Mall during National Farmers Market Week (August 3–8, 2025), the Great American Farmers Market brought together farmers, ranchers, and producers from across the country. The event celebrated American agriculture, strengthened commitments to healthy communities, and honored the growers who nourish the nation.
Resources
- The Great American Fair
A Coast‑to‑Coast Celebration of America’s Agricultural Heritage
Launched at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on the eve of Independence Day 2025, the Great American Fair is a year‑long national celebration that brings the observance of America’s 250th birthday to state and county fairs all across the country. The initiative will culminate in a major festival on the National Mall on June 25, 2026, featuring exhibits from all 50 states and much more.
Nationwide Mobilization
- Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins issued a proclamation calling on all 50 state fairs to adopt Freedom 250 programming.
- 39 states have committed to participating.
- Seven states issued their own proclamations: Alabama, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Interested in having your county or state fair participate?
- Great American Rodeo – Freedom 250 Edition
Celebrating the Cowboy Spirit
USDA is extending Freedom 250 celebrations to another cornerstone of American culture: the rodeo. Rodeos embody the backbone of rural America, where agriculture, community, and the cowboy spirit come together. Building on the success of the Great American State Fair initiative, USDA is working to mobilize rodeos nationwide.
Interested in having your rodeo participate?
- Decorating the Heartland
A Nationwide Patriotic Display Across USDA Facilities and American Farms
USDA is partnering with the General Services Administration (GSA) to decorate USDA buildings across the country with patriotic displays. USDA will distribute commemorative Freedom 250 flags to farmers nationwide to build unity and engage farmers directly in the celebration.
These flags will be flown from Flag Day (June 14) through July 4, 2026, creating a unified visual celebration of agriculture’s role in America’s history and future.
