Live coverage: America 250 celebrations across Central California
Last updated: Thursday, July 2, 2026 5:12PM GMT
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Events are being held across Central California and the country this week to mark America's 250th anniversary.
The theme for celebrations in Fresno this week is "One America, One Fresno."
Celebrations are being held across the city as it is a time to reflect on our nation's history, honor those who have served, and embrace the diversity that makes Fresno strong.
ABC is marking America's 250th anniversary with 24 hours of unparalleled programming called "Disney Celebrates America."
The multi-platform broadcast, led by ABC News "World News Tonight" anchor David Muir, will feature coverage across all 50 states, beginning July 3 at 7 p.m. PT on Friday, July 3 and running through July 4.
Jul 02, 2026, 5:09 PM
America 250 events in the City of Fresno
Join ABC30 and the City of Fresno as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary under one shared theme: One America, One Fresno.
Celebrations will be held across the city as it is a time to reflect on our nation's history, honor those who have served, and embrace the diversity that makes Fresno strong.
Click here for a full list of events happening across Fresno.
Downtown Fresno prepares for large Fourth of July celebration
Downtown Fresno is preparing to host what city leaders say will be the largest Fourth of July celebration in the city's downtown history, with an estimated 15,000 people expected to attend a full day of events Saturday.
Downtown Fresno is preparing to host what city leaders say will be the largest Fourth of July celebration in the city's downtown history.
Activities will begin at Mariposa Plaza with live music and cultural performances, then expand to nearby Kern Plaza and the Brewery District, where streets will be closed to accommodate the festivities.
The day will conclude at Chukchansi Park with a fireworks show for families.
Organizers say the event highlights the city's history and culture while bringing residents together in the heart of downtown.
Public safety officials said security will be a major focus of the celebration following recent violent incidents in downtown Fresno and at River Park.
America 250: A taste of Yosemite history returns to The Ahwahnee
Yosemite National Park visitors can experience a taste of history at The Ahwahnee, where chefs have reimagined a menu discovered in 1929 and now serve it as a prix fixe meal.
Yosemite National Park visitors can experience a taste of history at The Ahwahnee, where chefs have reimagined a menu discovered in 1929.
Located in the heart of Yosemite Valley, The Ahwahnee is known for its views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.
The historic hotel recently uncovered a menu dating back to 1929 and developed a modern interpretation of the dishes once served in its grand dining room.
Executive Chef de Cuisine Calvin Waters said recreating the nearly century-old menu presented both opportunities and challenges.
America 250: The majestic sounds of Yosemite National Park
From the roar of rushing water to the whisper of grass rustling in the breeze, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Yosemite is awe-inspiring.
From the roar of rushing water to the whisper of grass rustling in the breeze, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Yosemite is awe-inspiring.
"Just like any great movie has a soundtrack," says Yosemite Park Ranger Erik Westerlund. "Well, the natural world soundtrack is this -- what we call soundscape."
Westerlund connects with visitors from all over the world with his melodies.
Each strum of the guitar is a reflection of the beauty that surrounds him.
America 250: Yosemite National Park continues providing inspiration for artists
Home to lush landscape, towering granite walls and free-flowing falls, Yosemite National Park has provided inspiration for generations of artists.
Home to lush landscape, towering granite walls and free-flowing falls, Yosemite National Park has provided inspiration for generations of artists.
Nature photographer Marc Bouldoukian says the environment doubles as a classroom.
Born and raised in Lebanon, Bouldoukian moved to the US 14 years ago, where, after visiting Yosemite, his photography career would expand to include landscapes and nature.
