Keene City Councilor Molly Ellis Highlights Monadnock 250 Plans on WKBK

KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Molly Ellis joined Thursday morning’s Good Morning with Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio to provide an update on the upcoming Monadnock 250 celebration, a region-wide effort to mark America’s 250th anniversary this summer.

Ellis, a Keene City Councilor who is heading up the organizing committee, emphasized that the celebration extends far beyond Keene, drawing participation from across the Monadnock Region and surrounding communities. Historical societies, libraries, and civic groups from towns throughout Cheshire County and beyond are already planning to take part.

“This is really a regional celebration,” Ellis said, noting that groups like the Marlborough and Marlow historical societies, along with local libraries, are organizing floats and activities.

Full Day of Events Planned

Festivities will begin July 3 with a fireworks display following a game by the Keene SwampBats. The main celebration continues on July 4 with a full slate of events in downtown Keene.

The day will kick off with the 4 on the 4th road race organized by Pathways for Keene, followed by a parade scheduled for 11 a.m. Ellis said organizers hope the parade will create lasting memories for families, similar to the region’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976.

After the parade, a festival will take over downtown featuring vendors, informational booths, and live performances. Participating groups are expected to include organizations such as the Daughters of the American Revolution and local service clubs.

Call for Participants and Volunteers

With months to go before the event, Ellis said organizers are now focused on recruiting participants, performers, and volunteers.

“We’re looking for people to march in the parade, create floats, perform, or help behind the scenes,” she said.

Volunteer roles include assisting with parking, traffic control, and event logistics before, during, and after the celebration. Local civic organizations, student groups, and community members are all encouraged to get involved.

Organizers are also seeking bands, though Ellis acknowledged the challenge of scheduling performers on a holiday. Keene High School will be among those participating, along with the Nelson Town Band.

Parade Features and Competitions

The parade route is planned to begin at Wyman Tavern—a location tied to local Revolutionary War history—and proceed north along Main Street to Railroad Square.

In addition to floats from towns and organizations, the event will feature competitions, including prizes for the best float and a children’s bike-decorating contest.

Ellis said organizers hope to see strong participation from communities across the region, with each town showcasing its own history and character.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Local businesses and organizations are also being encouraged to sponsor the event. Sponsorships include promotional opportunities and preferred placement in the parade lineup.

As an added incentive, the first 50 groups to register for the parade will receive a free custom vinyl banner to carry during the event and reuse for future activities.

Looking Ahead

The celebration is expected to wrap up around 3 p.m. on July 4, allowing attendees to travel to other local events happening throughout the region.

Ellis noted that additional planning is ongoing, and more details will be shared in the coming months. She also confirmed she plans to recuse herself from any related votes before the Keene City Council due to her involvement with the organizing group.

More information, including how to participate or volunteer, is available at the Monadnock 250 website.

“This is about creating something people will remember for generations,” Ellis said.