The County of Berks was awarded a $20,000 grant from America250PA’s second Semiquincentennial Grant Round that will help the County and the Reading Symphony Orchestra present the Star Spangled Spectacular on July 4, 2026. Specifics on the event are still being planned but the Spectacular will be a day of music, fun and fireworks to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday!
“We are excited to contribute to Pennsylvania’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—and to engage our neighbors in meaningful ways that reflect our shared values while pointing toward a hopeful future,” said Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach. “The Semiquincentennial Grant, along with generous contributions from the local business community, will allow us to bring something truly special to Berks County.”
“It’s thrilling to see so many Pennsylvania communities and organizations stepping up with meaningful, engaging, and inspiring plans as we approach the Semiquincentennial,” said Cassandra Coleman, Executive Director of America250PA.
“These grants are giving Pennsylvanians the tools to come together, remember where we’ve been, and imagine what comes next. America250PA is incredibly proud to support this work, and grateful to Governor Shapiro and the General Assembly for making it possible.”