MONADNOCK REGION, (MyKeeneNow) – Plans are underway in the Monadnock Region for an expansive celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, with organizers announcing a full slate of events centered in downtown Keene on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The Monadnock 250 Committee is coordinating the effort in partnership with the Cheshire County Historical Society and the Keene Downtown Group, inviting communities from across the region to take part in the historic milestone.

A downtown parade is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m., with every town in the Monadnock Region encouraged to participate. Community groups, organizations, and municipalities may march or create floats, and the first 50 groups to sign up will receive a free 8-by-3-foot banner featuring their organization’s name to display during the parade. Keene Mayor Jay Kahn said the focus of the celebration is on creating lasting memories, particularly for younger generations who will one day mark the nation’s tricentennial.

The Independence Day weekend will begin Friday night with Keene’s annual SwampBats Independence Eve baseball game and fireworks. Festivities continue Saturday morning with the 24th annual Four on the Fourth road race, presented by Pathways for Keene. Race winners will be recognized as parade VIPs and invited to ride on floats following the event.

After the parade, downtown will host live music and dance performances, along with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Historical demonstrations are also planned on the lawn at the Wyman Tavern, offering attendees a hands-on look at life during the Revolutionary era.

The Monadnock 250 Committee includes representatives from the Keene Downtown Group, Savings Bank of Walpole, Arts Alive, the Cheshire County Commission, Keene High School, Pathways for Keene, the Historical Society of Cheshire County, and other local organizations. Organizers say they are looking forward to showcasing the creativity and community spirit of the entire Monadnock Region.

The deadline to register for parade participation is March 4. The cost is $25 per group, with fees waived for student organizations. More information is available by contacting monadnock250@gmail.com.