VisitMercerCountyPA Highlights Mercer County History and Events for America’s 250th Anniversary

Historic landmarks, museums and an Oct. 10 Americana concert give residents and visitors opportunities to explore Mercer County’s connections to the American story.

Sharon, PA, Sept. 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VisitMercerCountyPA is inviting residents and travelers to explore Mercer County’s historic landmarks, museums and cultural events as communities across Pennsylvania and the nation commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

From the Avenue of 444 Flags and War on Terror Memorial in Hermitage to local historic properties and museums, Mercer County offers several ways to experience the people, places and stories that connect the region to the broader American story. The year-long celebration continues on October 10th, 2026, with performances at ACTs Performing Arts Center and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra featuring "Classic" Americana and All-American Favorites. 

One of Mercer County’s most recognizable patriotic landmarks is the Avenue of 444 Flags and War on Terror Memorial in Hermitage, where 444 American flags fly every day, commemorating the 444 days of the Iranian Hostage Crisis, and the War on Terror memorial honors the active service members who lost their lives during the War on Terror. The site has become a lasting tribute to veterans and a distinctive connection between Mercer County and modern American history.

Visitors can explore additional local history at Gibson House Manor in Jamestown, a restored historic property now serving as a visitor destination, and the Mercer County Historical Society in Mercer, which preserves local artifacts, historical records, and genealogical resources.

“America’s 250th anniversary allows us to look at our national history through a local lens and recognize the places and stories that connect Mercer County to the larger American experience,” said Carmen Aiello, president and CEO of VisitMercerCountyPA. “We want visitors and residents alike to use this anniversary as a reason to explore, learn and experience more of what Mercer County has to offer.”

ACTS and Greenville Symphony Orchestra to Celebrate America’s 250th on Oct. 10

The anniversary celebration will also extend to the performing arts this fall. ACTS Performing Arts Center and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra will present “ACTS and GSO Celebrate America’s 250th” on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 3 p.m. at Passavant Center at Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania. The organizations will collaborate on a program of classic Americana tunes and All-American favorites celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Adult tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, while student admission is free. Tickets are available online through ACTS, at the door, or by calling the ACTS box office at 724-815-4388.

“Visitors don’t have to experience Mercer County’s history in just one way,” said Carissa Renninger, vice president of marketing for VisitMercerCountyPA. “A historic site, museum visit, patriotic landmark, or live performance can each provide a different connection to this milestone. Our goal is to make it easy for people to find those experiences and build a visit around the places and events that interest them.”

Explore Mercer County During America’s 250th Anniversary

America’s 250th anniversary provides an opportunity for residents and travelers to combine Mercer County’s historic and cultural attractions with festivals, performances, recreation, dining, shopping, and other experiences throughout the region.

VisitMercerCountyPA maintains online resources to help travelers discover local attractions and find upcoming festivals, performances, community celebrations, and other events.

View upcoming Mercer County events at www.visitmercercountypa.com/event-calendar/.

Explore Mercer County attractions at www.visitmercercountypa.com/see-and-do-category/attractions/.

Tickets for “ACTS and GSO Celebrate America’s 250th” are available at ticketpeak.com/go/acts, at the door, or through the ACTS box office at 724-815-4388.

About Visit Mercer County PA

Founded in 1963, VisitMercerCountyPA is the official tourist promotion agency for Mercer County, Pennsylvania. The organization promotes attractions, events, lodging, recreation, shopping, dining, and visitor experiences throughout the county while providing travel-planning resources for visitors from across the United States and Canada.

VisitMercerCountyPA supports regional tourism through destination marketing, visitor services, tourism partnerships, travel guides, and programs showcasing Mercer County's communities and attractions. For travel ideas, member businesses, accommodations, restaurants, and upcoming events, visit VisitMercerCountyPA.com.

Attachments

• Avenue of 444 Flags Honors American History in Hermitage, Pennsylvania
• Gibson House Manor Preserves Local History in Jamestown, Pennsylvania

Carissa Renninger
VisitMercerCountyPA
724-346-3771
crenninger@visitmercercountypa.com