Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Freedom Fest organizers announced that vendor, parade and event participation applications are now officially open and available at www.kcfreedomfest.org.
Event applications are open for any event commemorating America 250 taking place anywhere in Kosciusko County throughout 2026, including celebrations, educational programs, concerts, parades, festivals, fireworks, community gatherings and special events honoring America’s 250th birthday. Organizations, churches, schools, service clubs, municipalities and community groups are encouraged to submit their events to be included in the official Freedom Fest calendar.
The Freedom Fest Committee is also actively seeking financial sponsors and volunteer leaders to help organize and operate the many activities planned throughout the yearlong celebration. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsorship or leadership opportunities are encouraged to visit the website for details.
Several signature legacy projects are being planned as part of the celebration, including:
• Liberty Tree Planting (spring 2026): A ceremonial Liberty tree will be planted as a lasting symbol of freedom, unity and patriotism in Kosciusko County.
• Freedom Fest Time Capsule: Community members will be invited to contribute meaningful items representing life in 2026 to be preserved for future generations.
• “250 Ways to Give Back” Initiative: At the request of the state of Indiana, counties across the state are being encouraged to complete 250 acts of service in honor of America’s 250th birthday. These acts may include volunteer time, donated talents, charitable giving, community projects and random acts of kindness.
Organizers are asking participants to document their acts of service so Kosciusko County’s impact can be officially submitted to the state of Indiana and preserved as part of the historical record of how America 250 was celebrated.
Documentation may include:
• Photos
• Short written summaries
• Organization or group names
• Dates and locations of service projects
Schools, churches, youth groups, service clubs, nonprofits, businesses and individuals are all encouraged to participate.
Official Freedom Fest merchandise is now available locally at:
• Kosciusko County Visitors Center
• Anderson Greenhouse
• Buffalo Street Emporium
Merchandise purchases directly support Freedom Fest programming and community outreach initiatives.
Freedom Fest is also launching a countywide patriotism campaign encouraging residents and businesses to help “Paint Our Towns Red, White & Blue” from Memorial Day through the end of July.
Community members are encouraged to:
• Fly American flags
• Display red, white and blue bunting
• Decorate storefronts and homes
• Switch outdoor lighting and Christmas lights to red, white and blue.
Organizers say the goal is to create a visible, unified celebration across neighborhoods, downtown districts, schools and businesses throughout Kosciusko County.
Vendor registration, parade entries, sponsorship opportunities and event applications are now available at www.kcfreedomfest.org.
For updates and announcements, residents are encouraged to follow Kosciusko County Freedom Fest on social media.
