MONTGOMERY, AL — Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday formally announced plans for an “America 250 Alabama Celebration” at the Alabama State Capitol as part of preparations leading up to the nation’s 250th birthday in 2026.
The public event is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, at 11:00 a.m. on the front steps of the Alabama State Capitol ahead of Memorial Day weekend. During the ceremony, Governor Ivey is expected to officially unveil a large commemorative U.S. flag marking America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The flag will hang between the Capitol’s columns throughout the summer.
“We live in the greatest nation on this Earth, and it is only fitting Alabama pay tribute to this country we are proud to call home. I am excited to invite my fellow Alabamians to the Capitol for a salute to our nation and to kick off this historic summer,” Governor Ivey said in a statement. “There is truly no better time to be an American and an Alabamian than right now.”
According to the governor’s office, the event will feature patriotic music and performances throughout the program. Guests attending before the ceremony will hear from the 151st Army Band.
Governor Ivey also invited Pell City High School student Amelia Alverson, whose rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” recently gained attention online, to perform during the event.
Country music artist Randy Owen of the band Alabama is also scheduled to perform.
The program is expected to conclude with a flyover by four F-35 fighter jets above the State Capitol.
Governor Ivey first announced the celebration during remarks in Huntsville on Wednesday. No tickets are required for attendance.
The event is part of Alabama’s recognition of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, which will be commemorated nationwide on July 4, 2026.
