COMMUNITY EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

From August 5–9, 2026, Somerset County came together for a multi-day celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States and remembering the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. The events brought together residents, visitors, first responders, military representatives, community organizations, businesses, and families for five days of remembrance, patriotism, entertainment, and community activities.

Opening Ceremonies

The celebration began on Wednesday August 5th at Somerset Area High School with a performance of Come From Away presented by Mountain Playhouse.

That evening, the official Opening Ceremonies featured performances by the Laurel Highlands Chorale, the combined Johnstown and Somerset Community Concert Bands, and the United States Air Force Strolling Strings. The evening concluded with a performance by the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, providing a memorable and patriotic beginning to the week’s activities.

Honoring Heroes

Thursday’s activities began with the groundbreaking of the Pennsylvania Fallen Firefighter Memorial at the Remember Me Rose Garden in Stoystown, PA. The ceremony included remarks from officials, fire service representatives, and community leaders, along with music, a presentation of colors, and the official groundbreaking.

Later that day, the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performed at the Wall of Names at Flight 93 National Memorial.

Another performance of Come From Away was held at Somerset Area High School, while Laurel Arts hosted Bands for the Brave: A Concert for Heroes. The event featured performances by Allison Borek, Fret Buzz, and The Commonheart, along with food, family activities, and a special appearance by former Pittsburgh Steeler Brett Keisel to honor servicemen and women. Guests also had the opportunity to view the special 9/11 exhibit, Reflections of the Human Spirit.

Activities associated with the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Convention also began on Thursday and continued throughout the weekend.

History, Community & Remembrance

Friday featured two additional performances of Come From Away at Somerset Area High School.

The Somerset Historical Center hosted a special America’s County 25/250 edition of First Friday. The day included the Somerset County Called to Action museum exhibit, an escape room, carnival games, children’s activities, inflatables, live animals, food vendors, and live music by the Hickory Bottom Bluegrass Band and John Larimer.

One of the day’s most moving events was a procession of participating fire companies from Somerset to Flight 93 National Memorial. Fire companies traveled from the Somerset Regional Fire Department along Route 281 and Route 30 before arriving at the memorial, where a ceremony was held to honor firefighters.

The evening continued with entertainment at the Somerset Regional Volunteer Fire Department.

A Countywide Celebration

Saturday brought a full day of activities throughout Somerset. The morning included the Somerset Regional VFD Battle of the Barrel and Chicken BBQ, along with public scissor-lift rides that provided visitors with a bird’s-eye view of Uptown Somerset.

Uptown also came alive with an Antique Show, SoCo Farmers Market, and Sidewalk Saturday, while the Union Street Playground hosted a Kid Zone featuring carnival games, a children’s Battle of the Barrels, bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course, and prizes.

The centerpiece of the afternoon was the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Convention Parade. The large-scale parade featured 16 bands, including local and military bands, along with fire apparatus from communities throughout the region, steam engines, floats, dancers, baton twirlers, and other participants as the procession traveled through Somerset and concluded at the high school.

Family activities continued at the Somerset High School football field with inflatables, concessions, and live performances from local bands. The Somerset Regional Volunteer Fire Department also hosted evening entertainment with a DJ, food, and drinks.

The day culminated with a drone show and fireworks display at Somerset Area High School, creating a celebratory finale to the week’s major festivities.

Community Reflection

The series of events concluded Sunday morning with a Community Sunrise Worship Service at Somerset Lake. Community members gathered for fellowship, worship music, scripture readings, and prayer, bringing the five-day celebration to a reflective close.

A Celebration of Somerset County

Throughout the five-day celebration, the 25/250 events showcased the people, organizations, traditions, and stories that make Somerset County unique. From military performances and tributes to first responders to historical programming, live entertainment, family activities, and moments of remembrance, the celebration provided opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to participate.

Together, the events honored the nation’s past, recognized Somerset County’s unique place in American history, celebrated those who serve their communities and country, and brought people together as the United States approached its 250th anniversary.