College of the Ozarks invites the public to celebrate America 250

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, College of the Ozarks is inviting the public to join a yearlong celebration of American heritage, faith, and civic responsibility through a robust slate of America 250 events and experiences.

At College of the Ozarks, celebrating America is not confined to a single day or event — it is woven into daily life on campus. From honoring veterans and preserving historic memory at Patriots Park, to welcoming visitors from across the nation, to encouraging the youngest Americans to proudly recite the Pledge of Allegiance at The Keeter Center®, the College celebrates American ideals every day.

“At College of the Ozarks, we believe the American spirit is sustained through faith, hard work, character, and service,” said Dr. Brad S. Johnson, president of College of the Ozarks. “As we commemorate America 250, we are not only reflecting on where we have been, but we are investing in the young men and women who will carry these values forward.”

The America 250 observances will include Veteran reunions, memorial services, and community events centered on remembrance, patriotism, and civic responsibility.

America 250 Events at College of the Ozarks

(More details to be announced closer to each event) 

• “Celebrate America’s Stories” Exhibit at the Ralph Foster Museum
  March 27 – Dec. 19
  Walk through America’s history and see how it intersects with College of the Ozarks, featuring historic photographs, agricultural artifacts, the ball gown of First Lady Pat Nixon, and more.
• Vietnam War Veterans Day (Observed) at Patriots Park
  March 30, 10 a.m.
  A special ceremony honoring Vietnam veterans and their service.
• America Reads the Bible
  April 21, 2026
  College of the Ozarks will partner with Christians Engaged, a ministry of Family Policy Alliance Foundation, during the national “America Reads the Bible” event in Washington, D.C., held April 19–25, 2026. Dr. Brad S. Johnson has been invited to read 2 Kings 25 – 1 Chronicles 1 from 3–4 p.m. on April 21.
• America 250 Student-Made Products Event
  June 13
  Special offerings and experiences at Edwards Mill & General Store, the Stained Glass & Candle Shop, and The Keeter Center Gift Shop.
• Flag Day at College of the Ozarks
  June 14
  Hundreds of American flags will line the campus in honor of Flag Day.
• Honor America Fireworks Celebration
  June 27
  The Branson area’s beloved patriotic celebration returns bigger than ever with live music, food trucks, family activities, and special guests.
• Betsy Ross & George Washington, Storytime at the Star Schoolhouse
  Summer (Special dates TBA)
  A living-history experience presented in partnership with the Ralph Foster Museum.
• “I Pledge” Program at The Nettie Marie College Creamery at The Keeter Center
  July 2, 4, 9, 16, 23, 30
  This program invites children ages 12 and under to recite the Pledge of allegiance from memory in exchange for a complimentary scoop of homemade ice cream from the College Creamery, celebrating patriotism and helping young guests learn and honor a foundational civic tradition.
• “Lest We Forget” Memorial Ceremony
  Sept. 11, 9 a.m.
  A somber remembrance of those who lost their lives in sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center Towers in New York City. The campus family and those in the community are welcomed to gather as the 9/11 flag is raised at the “Lest We Forget” 9/11 Memorial on James Forsythe Drive.
• Apple Butter Days
  Oct. 17
  A celebration of Americana featuring all things Apple: Try samplings of products featuring Student-Made Apple Butter.
• Veterans Week: Dedication of POW/MIA Memorial at Patriots Park
  Nov. 5
  Veterans Week observances will culminate with the dedication of the POW/MIA Memorial at Patriots Park.
• Veterans Day Sunrise Service
  Nov. 11, 7 a.m.
  Held at the Alumni Memorial in front of Williams Memorial Chapel.
• Reading of the Names at Patriots Park
  Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As America marks this historic milestone, College of the Ozarks invites all to experience a place where patriotism is lived, faith is foundational, and the next generation of leaders is being formed.