As an official America 250-Ohio community, Summit County is getting involved in the commemoration of America’s 250th birthday — and celebrating its contributions to Ohio and the nation at large.
“We are excited to be partnering with the Summit County Historical Society to recognize our nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026,” says Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro via an email. “As an America 250-OH community, we are part of a coalition of counties, cities, villages and townships all working together to make sure Ohio has opportunities for everyone to celebrate and commemorate this milestone.”
As part of the celebration, enjoy special events and programs. At the Perkins Stone Mansion, John Brown House and Hale Farm & Village, for example, any fourth grade student accompanying a paid adult can enter for free through the end of 2026.
“We will be reaching out to different historical organizations throughout the county to encourage them to host programs that relate to the larger themes of America 250,” says President and CEO of the Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Leianne Neff Heppner.
From February to October 2026, the Ohio Goes to the Movies initiative screens free, Ohio-centric movies. Currently, Akron’s Nightlight cinema, the Akron Civic Theatre, Regal Hudson and Regal Independence are participating. The Network to Freedom initiative highlights organizations in Ohio that are on the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom — in Summit County, that includes the John Brown House in Akron, the Oviatt House, the John Brown house in Richfield and Hale Farm & Village.
“Last year was our centennial, this year is Akron 200 and next year is America 250,” says Neff Heppner. “We think it’s a very important time to engage the public in knowing our local history and hoping that they’ll continue the legacy and recognize history every day.”
America 250 also features trails, including the Ohio Air and Space Trail, which crosses into Summit County and recognizes the Akron History Center and MAPS Air Museum. The Ohio Creativity Trail includes Don Drumm Studios & Gallery, the Akron Art Museum, the Akron-Summit County Public Library’s Maple Valley branch, Clayton Bailey’s World of Wonders, the Akron Zoo’s Conservation Carousel and more. Follow along with online maps and guides at america250-ohio.org.
Next year will bring several events, including a tree planting at the Perkins Stone Mansion on Earth Day 2026. Each month of 2026 will have a different theme.
“Akron will be able to highlight how it relates to specific themes that will then be announced throughout the state,” says Neff Heppner. “It allows that opportunity to highlight those firsts in Akron and Summit County or those individuals that made an impact to be shared with a greater population.”
These events and initiatives are meant to engage the public, helping them to learn more about Summit County’s role in America’s 250-year history.
“Throughout every corner of Summit County, our residents have contributed to this nation’s incredible history,” Shapiro says. “We look forward to highlighting this community’s innovative and collaborative spirit, and its role in shaping the United States.”
