Schuylkill County is gearing up for a significant celebration to mark America’s 250th birthday with an exciting lineup of events, including a fireworks display and a grand parade in Pottsville. The festivities will commence with fireworks on June 25, 2026, followed by a parade at 11 a.m. on June 27, 2026, making it a defining moment for the community.
Historic Celebrations in Pottsville
During a press conference held at the Schuylkill County Courthouse, Savas Logothetides, the parade committee chairman, outlined the ambitious plans for the celebration. He emphasized the importance of community involvement, inviting fire departments, school districts, civic organizations, and all 67 municipalities in the county to participate in what he described as a “historic moment.”
The parade will feature a float competition, with Logothetides encouraging municipalities to create entries that celebrate American history and showcase the unique stories of their communities. “Our goal is simple but ambitious,” he stated. “We want to make this parade historic, something that people will talk about for decades.”
Following the parade, an event titled America250-Schuylkill will take place at the Alvernia University Pottsville CollegeTowne campus, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
Reflecting on America’s History
The announcement of these events coincided with the kickoff of America250PA-Schuylkill, the county’s official recognition of the nation’s Semiquincentennial. Leo Malsky, the director of operations for America250PA, moderated the event, emphasizing the county’s rich history, including its significant contributions to the Industrial Revolution through anthracite coal.
“There was cause, there was purpose to be fought for,” said State Representative Jamie Barton, reflecting on the historical context of taxation without representation. “It’s something that we continue to celebrate today, and will for all time.”
County Commissioner Larry Padora, who chairs America250PA-Schuylkill, spoke about the enduring significance of the ideals set forth by the Founding Fathers. “This grand experiment that Ronald Reagan said the country was put on must always move forward, as it has for 250 years,” he remarked.
Commissioner Gary Hess highlighted the role of veterans in the county’s history, noting, “We’re a veteran-rich county. We have many veterans who served to make sure that democracy stands.” His comments resonated with the large crowd in attendance, which included members of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and Pottsville Mayor Tom Smith.
As part of the event, J. Robert “Jay” Zane, president of the Schuylkill County Historical Society, announced an upcoming lecture titled “Schuylkill County During the Revolutionary War,” scheduled for February 19, 2026, at the society’s headquarters.
With a focus on community engagement, Frank Zangari, president of the Schuylkill County Fire Chief’s Association, expressed his anticipation for a large turnout of fire apparatus during the parade. Additionally, royalty from the Schuylkill County Fair, including Queen Emilee Clews and Princess Madison Purcell, attended to show their support.
As the event concluded, Malsky presented the county commissioners with an official America250PA-Schuylkill flag, marking the beginning of what promises to be a memorable celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
