CA, US & World
President Donald Trump Set to Launch 'Great American State Fair' on National Mall for U.S. 250th Birthday
WASHINGTON — Extensive preparations have transformed the National Mall as the nation's capital gets ready for the official launch of the Great American State Fair. Stretching across the historic landscape between the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument, the massive 16-day exposition is designed as a world-class celebration to commemorate the United States' landmark 250th birthday. Ahead of the formal public opening on Thursday morning, President Donald Trump is scheduled to launch the semiquincentennial festivities on Wednesday evening, June 24, 2026, headlining an opening ceremony that he has prominently dubbed a "rally to end all rallies."
The patriotic kickoff event, set to begin at 7:00 PM, will feature a powerful display of national pride, highlighted by scheduled military flyovers and ceremonial presentations. Attendees will experience performances by country music veteran Lee Greenwood alongside renowned ensembles, including "The President's Own" United States Marine Band, the U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," and the Armed Forces choirs. Eager supporters began forming lines outside the security perimeter early Wednesday morning to guarantee front-row views of the main stage, with many traveling from across the country to witness the historic once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
Reporting from the scene on 7th Street, which has been entirely closed to vehicular traffic, journalist Megan McGrath outlined the rapid transformation of the Mall. Large-scale security fencing now encloses the area, which features unique architectural additions built explicitly for the multi-week fair, including a replica of the historic Triumphal Arch. A prominent 110-foot Ferris wheel has been erected at 7th Street to serve as a signature attraction, while dozens of specialized pavilions line the grass to showcase exhibits, interactive displays, and cultural features representing all 56 U.S. states and territories.
Due to the high-profile nature of the presidential address and the massive anticipated crowds, strict security protocols are actively being enforced by regional authorities. All guests attending the Great American State Fair or the opening night rally must pass through comprehensive security checkpoints. Authorities have established two primary screening entries for the public, located at 7th Street and 12th Street along Jefferson Drive and Madison Drive. Following the conclusion of Wednesday's kickoff rally, the fair will officially open to the general public free of charge on Thursday, June 25, at 10:00 AM, continuing daily through July 10.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
June 24, 2026
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