America 250 Celebrations
in Northwest Kansas

July 3rd in McDonald, Kansas
&
July 4th in Bird City, Kansas

Party Like it's 1776

July 3rd in McDonald
5:00 to 9:00 - Community BBQ, Softball game & activities for the kids

July 4th in Bird City
8:00am Fun Run
11:00am Parade Downtown to Van Doren Park
11:30am All-American Hotdog Meal at Van Doren Park
Fire truck rides, barrel train rides & fun activities.
12:30pm Watermelon eating contest
12:00 - 5:00 Free swimming at Bird City Pool
6:00pm Gates open to the public
9:45pm Announcements and Our National Anthem
10:00pm Spectacular Fireworks Display to Patriotic Music

Learn more

America's birthday party, WaKeeney weenie roast & community picnic

Come help us celebrate America's 250th birthday! Bring your lawn chairs and party hats to the courthouse square for community wide celebration for free.

Firecracker 5k
Sponsored by Trego Recreation Commission
To register call 785-743-2595

The Party Begins at 11:00 am
WaKeeney weenie roast
First 150 people get a free hot dog, chips, water, and cupcake

Bicycle decorating and parade 11:30 am
Kids will be able to decorate their bikes before participating in a parade downtown!
Some decorations will be provided, but bring your own to share too!

Apple Pie Eating Contest 11:30 am
Registration opens in front of economic development office (first come first serve)
Maximum 10 Kids - small pies
Maximum 5 adults - large pies
Contest begins at 12:30
Winners will receive bragging rights.

Outdoor Free play Yard Games
Yard Games for all ages in the courthouse lawn.

Community Kids Train
Runs from 11-1pm

July 4th in WaKeeney, Kansas

July 4th at The Fort in Hays, Kansas

Prairie Picnic at The Fort

Saturday, July 4, 2026
Come celebrate with us! Join us at Historic Fort Hays Site to celebrate America 250 for vintage baseball, reenactments, food, live music, & more! Stay for the Wild West Festival's Fireworks Spectacular!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
4:30 PM Vintage Baseball with the Post Nine & Hays City 9
5:00 PM FREE Hot Dog Feed-Meal includes chips & water(while supply lasts), & Music by Hays City Band
5:30 PM Story Time with the Book Mobile
6:00 PM LIVE Music with Sweet Remedy
7:00 PM Historic Reenactment "Spirit of 76" at the Officers Quarters
7:30 PM LIVE Music & Dancing with Anthony & the Anamals
9:00 PM Historic Reenactment "Spirit of 76" at the Officers Quarters
9:30 PM LIVE Music with Sweet Remedy
10:00 PM Wild West Festival's FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
Additional Activities:
Old Fashioned Photo Booth, Country Western Troubadour Dave Zerfas, Historical Figures, Food Trucks, & Information throughout the Fort