USA 250 Subcommittee
Town of Kent Announces USA 250 Celebration: July 3–4, 2026
Community Invited to Participate in Historic 250th Anniversary of American Independence
The Town of Kent’s USA 250th Committee is proud to announce a full slate of community-wide events planned for July 3 and July 4, 2026, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Designed as a two-day, town-wide celebration, the event will bring together residents, families, local organizations, and visitors to honor America’s founding ideals while celebrating the unique spirit of Kent.
“Our goal is simple,” said Sarah Chase, Committee Chair. “We want this to be a true community celebration—one that reflects the people, organizations, and traditions that make Kent special. Now is the time for everyone who wants to be involved to step forward.”
To view the schedule for the Two-Day Celebration please click here
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
A central goal of Kent’s USA 250 celebration is broad community involvement. Local organizations, civic groups, nonprofits, businesses, and residents are strongly encouraged to participate in both the parade and daytime programming.
The Lights & Liberty Parade is designed as a family-friendly, nonpartisan event celebrating shared history, civic pride, and unity. Participants are asked to follow guidelines that ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for all, including maintaining non-political messaging and age-appropriate content.
Children are especially encouraged to take part with decorated bikes, wagons, scooters, and light-up displays.
CLICK HERE FOR PARADE REGISTRATION FORM. The submission deadline is June 20, 2026.
Click here for Parade Participants Guidelines.
“This celebration belongs to Kent,” said Chase. “Whether you’re joining the parade, hosting an activity tent, volunteering, or simply attending, your participation is what will make this meaningful. We encourage everyone to get involved now as we finalize plans.”
The USA 250th Committee also has a Calendar of Events, which is communicated to the Chamber of Commerce, NWCT planning committees, and the Town of Kent. Members of the public can access the calendar HERE.
If you have an event to submit, please contact the committee chair.
Subcommittee Members
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
|
Sarah A Chase
| Chairman, First Selectman's Designee |
|
Melissa Cherniske
| Vice Chair, Member from Public |
|
Marge Smith
| Secretary, Kent Historical Society Designee |
Kent Town Clerk | |
|
* Vacant
| Member from Public |
|
Phil Fox
| Kent Chamber of Commerce President |
|
Steve Klots
| Member from Public |
|
Sarah Marshall
| Kent Memorial Library Director |
|
Catherine Mazza
| Kent Social Services Designee |
|
Meadow Moerschell
| Youth Leader recommended by the Old State House |
|
Andrew Rowand
| Eric Sloane Museum Director |
|
* Vacant
| Kent Volunteer Fire Dept Designee |
