Submitted photo
Pictured is a keychain designed to celebrate America250 in the Juniata River Valley.

From staff reports

LEWISTOWN — Organizers of the Juniata River Valley’s America250 celebration are encouraging residents and visitors to participate in a series of events and activities planned throughout June as part of the nation’s semiquincentennial observance.

Two major community events are scheduled for June 13.

Juniata County’s America250 celebration in McAlisterville will feature colonial-era demonstrations and entertainment, along with a bear contest, costume contest, live music and other activities.

Also on June 13, the Angels from Bigfoot Country fundraiser at the Mifflin County Youth Park will include live music throughout the day, a motorcycle and car show, children’s activities, vendors and food. Organizers said both events are free and open to the public and will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The celebration will continue at 7 p.m. June 27 with the annual Let Freedom Ring Concert presented by the Lewistown Community Band in front of the Historic Courthouse on Monument Square. The evening will conclude with Lewistown’s annual fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. along the Juniata River.

This year’s fireworks are being sponsored by the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau and the Mifflin County Commissioners.

Organizers are also seeking participants for the official Mifflin County America250 Parade, scheduled for 4 p.m. July 18 in Allensville. Registration is available through the Allensville Fire Company.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to decorate homes and storefronts with patriotic flags and bunting as part of the communitywide celebration.

America250 organizers noted that local events will continue beyond Independence Day, with activities planned throughout the year across Mifflin and Juniata counties.

In addition to events, residents can participate in the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau’s “Postcards to the Future” project. Community members are invited to write messages, create drawings or submit photos on official postcards, which will be placed in a community time capsule. Postcards can be picked up at the Visitors Bureau office and participating businesses and returned by the end of the year.

Organizers also announced that commemorative America250 merchandise, including stickers, keychains, posters and enamel pins, is available for purchase through a local online store.

Additional information about upcoming events and participation opportunities is available through the America250PA-Mifflin County Facebook page and the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau.