Former President Donald Trump is set to headline the opening ceremony of the America 250 festivities with a rally on the National Mall. The event, part of a 16-day State Fair scheduled from June 25 to July 10, will span the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument.
The exposition will feature all 56 U.S. states and territories, organized by Freedom 250. Initially, a concert series titled the Great American State Fair was planned, but several artists, including Martina McBride, The Commodores, Young MC, and Bret Michaels, withdrew their participation. These artists cited the event's affiliation with the White House and, in some cases, stated they were unaware of the connection to Freedom 250.
Following the artists' withdrawals, Trump announced via social media that he would host his own event, the "Greatest Rally, EVER!" He described it as the "Rally to end all Rallies." Trump stated that while some artists would still perform, the focus would be on his speech and other speakers. He mentioned that Lee Greenwood, known for "God Bless the USA," would introduce him, and tenor Christopher Macchio would also perform.
"We don't want singers with no talent, but big fees to put you to sleep, we've told them all to stay home," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "All we want is you, me, a few speakers, and the Greatest Music ever played, the same Music you have listened to for years!"
Country singer Alexis Wilkins, identified as the girlfriend of FBI Director Kash Patel, announced she would perform at the event. The kickoff for the weeks-long festivities is also expected to include a flyover by stealth bombers.