Alleghany Highlands to Commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary with Community-Wide Events, Exhibits, and Experiences   Alleghany Highlands, VA – The Alleghany Highlands VA250 Planning Committee is proud to announce a series of events, exhibits, and community-wide initiatives taking place this spring and summer as part of America’s 250th anniversary. These efforts are aligned with VA250, Virginia’s official celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Through a collaborative effort led by the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism and a dedicated regional planning committee, local organizations, businesses, and community leaders have come together to create a commemoration that honors the nation’s founding while also providing meaningful, engaging experiences for the local community. “This is more than a series of events—it’s a community-wide celebration,” said Makayla Nobles of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. “From the beginning, our focus has been on creating something that our residents can be proud of while also inviting visitors to experience the Alleghany Highlands in a deeper, more meaningful way.” A Community-Wide Commemoration Throughout the spring and summer months, residents and visitors alike will experience the 250th commemoration not only through scheduled events, but also through ongoing exhibits, displays, and installations across the Alleghany Highlands. These efforts include: • Living history programs and heritage-based events that bring the past to life • Exhibits and interpretive displays located throughout the community, highlighting local connections to America’s founding • Traveling experiences, including the return of the VA250 Mobile Museum in downtown Clifton Forge • Multiple live performances honoring and celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary • New events including a carnival at the Jackson River Sports Complex • Integration into existing events, adding a commemorative layer to beloved community traditions Together, these elements create an accessible and immersive experience, whether attending a planned event, exploring downtown, or visiting local attractions. Built for the Community, Shared with Visitors A key priority of this initiative has been ensuring that the programming is rooted in the Alleghany Highlands community. By working closely with local partners, the planning committee has developed experiences that celebrate the region’s identity, highlight local stories, and create opportunities for residents to engage with and reflect on our shared history. At the same time, the initiative supports the region’s broader tourism efforts by positioning the Alleghany Highlands as a destination for heritage travel, encouraging visitors to explore the area while participating in the commemoration. Collaboration Across the Region The Alleghany Highlands VA250 planning committee—comprised of representatives from local governments, tourism, parks and recreation, education, arts, and community organizations has spent the past year developing a coordinated approach to ensure the commemoration is visible, accessible, and impactful. “This effort has brought together so many partners who care deeply about this community,” said Josh Taylor, Executive Director of the Chamber. “It’s been incredible to see the level of collaboration and creativity that has gone into making this a true regional initiative.” Plan Your Experience A full schedule of events, exhibits, and experiences can be found on the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism’s website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to participate, explore, and take part in the many opportunities to engage with local history, while visitors are invited to plan a trip and experience the Alleghany Highlands during this historic milestone.

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