More than half a dozen events have been scheduled for 2026 in Boyle County to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, culminating with several activities on the Fourth of July. The following are events scheduled so far (though more may be added in the coming weeks).
The Shot Heard Round the World viewing
This is the first event in Boyle County to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. There will be a showing of the film “The Shot Heard Round the World”: The Battles of Lexington and Concord. The free showing will be held Tuesday, March 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Boyle County Performing Arts Center in Danville.
An Evening with Abraham Lincoln
As part of the Boyle County America’s 250 events in 2026, “Honest Abe” Lincoln will be coming to the Forkland Community Center for “An Evening With Abraham Lincoln”. Lincoln presenter Jacob Truax will deliver a 75 minute solo performance “that illuminates one of America’s most iconic leaders through humor, humanity, and unforgettable oratory. Event is free, but seating will be limited to the building’s capacity. This will take place Saturday, April 25 at 7 p.m. at the Forkland Community Center.
McDowell Night at the Norton Center
This special evening will include a chautauqua performance highlighting the significant impact of early American statesman and Revolutionary War officer Samuel McDowell, known as the “Son of Virginia, Father of Kentucky.” McDowell presided over nine of the 10 constitutional conventions held in Danville from 1784-1792, leading to Kentucky’s separation from Virginia. He was also the father of Dr. Ephraim McDowell, a pioneering surgeon who performed the first successful ovariotomy in 1809 in Danville.
During the McDowell Night events, the original copy of Kentucky’s constitution will be on display, along with historic political papers and meeting minutes from the constitutional conventions. In addition, the Norton Center’s own exhibit – titled “Be The People” – will also be on display. This event will be held Saturday, May 9 from 7-10 p.m. at the Norton Center for the Arts at Centre College.
Iron Baby Angel Performances
As part of the Boyle County’s America 250 celebration, Pioneer Playhouse will present a theatre adaptation of the book “The Iron Baby Angel,” which is set in Danville. Performances will be nightly at 8 p.m. – Tuesday-Saturday – from June 30-July 18.
Montgomery Gentry Concert Featuring Eddie Montgomery
To kick off the July 4th weekend, there will be a free concert in Danville by Montgomery Gentry featuring Danville’s own Eddie Montgomery.
Montgomery—one of the most recognizable voices in country music—returns home to perform the hits fans know and love. As part of Montgomery Gentry, he’s earned five No. 1 country radio hits, Grand Ole Opry membership, and induction into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame.
Bring your friends, bring your chairs, and get ready for a high-energy night of live music as we celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Danville. Concert will be Friday, July 3 at 7 p.m. at Millennium Park.
Danville Fourth of July Parade
Let your patriotism shine during the July 4 parade on Main Street in downtown Danville. This military-themed parade will honor service members and different military branches from the course of the United States’ 250 years of history. The parade will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 4 in downtown Danville.
Long Rifle Shooting Competition
In conjunction with the Boyle County America’s 250 events on July 4, 2026, there will be a long rifle shooting competition just outside of Junction City at Traveler’s Rest, the homplace of Kentucky’s first governor.
Fireworks Show at Millennium Park
A 250th anniversary celebration of the United States’ founding wouldn’t be complete without a fireworks show. Come to Millennium Park the evening of Saturday, July 4, for family events leading up to the fireworks show at dusk.
Balloons Over the Bluegrass Hot Air Balloon Festival
In conjunction with the America 250th Celebration, the annual Balloons Over the Bluegrass Hot Air Balloon Festival – coordinated by Junction City and Junction City Matters – will be held at the Danville-Boyle County Airport on Sunday, August 9 from 4-9 p.m. This will be a free event to attend and will include other activities, as well as food and drink vendors.