The Catholic Defender: President Trump has announced several high-profile events scheduled for 2026

I am getting an early start locally to help promote the National celebration. People from all walks came out today in support of President Trump and in support of keeping nuclear bombs out of the hands of Iranian Terrorists.

I am resuming my 10 miles a day on foot traveling down main street in Gardner Kansas.

People driving down Gardner Main Street today provided much encouragment in their positive support as I received patrons coming out of their businesses to declare their continued support for President Trump and our Military.

I will continue my support of honoring Freedom 250. I spent a number of years near the Iranian border and my prayer is for our Soldiers in harms way today.

Freedom 250 refers to the official White House Task Force initiatives led by President Donald Trump to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States (the Semiquincentennial). The celebration spans throughout 2026, centering on the theme of "The Golden Age of Opportunity".

Salute to America 250 (July 4, 2026): A massive celebration on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., featuring a keynote address by President Trump, military flyovers, and the largest fireworks display in history.

The Great American State Fair: A traveling festival beginning in Iowa and culminating on the National Mall, featuring pavilions from all 50 states.

Freedom 250 Grand Prix (August 21–23, 2026): The first-ever IndyCar Series street race held on a 1.7-mile circuit around the National Mall.

The Patriot Games: A nationally televised athletic competition led by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., featuring top high school athletes from every state.

The Patriot Games: A first-of-its-kind athletic competition for high school athletes from every state in Fall 2026.

UFC at the White House (June 14, 2026): A special Ultimate Fighting Championship event held on the South Lawn to mark Flag Day.

Rededicate 250: A national prayer event and jubilee on the National Mall intended to rededicate the nation as "One Nation Under God".

National Jubilee of Prayer: A major worship and prayer event called "Rededicate 250" on the National Mall on May 17, 2026.

Presidential Signature on Currency: The Treasury announced that President Trump's signature will appear on future U.S. paper currency starting in 2026—a historic first for a sitting president.

SNAPSHOTS OF AMERICA 250: A walk-through history weekend at the Shawnee Town 1929 Museum on May 2, 2026.

Summerfest 2026: A 250th anniversary and Independence Day celebration at the Douglas County Fairgrounds on July 4, 2026.

Declaration 1776 Tour: A traveling exhibition exploring the impact of the Declaration of Independence at sites like the Gardner Historical Museum in August 2026.

Mahaffies' Independence Day: An 1860s-style celebration featuring a reading of the Declaration and cannon fire at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop-Farm on July 4, 2026.e