Shippensburg is proud to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with a series of community events honoring our history, culture, and spirit.
Join in throughout May, June, and July.
Red, White
and Blue
Decorating Contest
Memorial Day Thru July 4, 2026
Hosted by Shippensburg Downtown Beautification Committee
Decorate your business, storefront, or home in patriotic red, white, and blue to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary.
Prizes will be awarded.
Old Courthouse Open House
May 23 & 30, June 6, 13 & 20, 2026
1:00PM – 4:00PM
352 E. King Street
Visit one of Shippensburg’s oldest landmarks, Cumberland County’s first courthouse. Before the Carlisle Courthouse was built, the Widow Piper’s Tavern was used for Cumberland County court sessions from 1750 to 1751. It was built around 1735 by Samuel Perry and is believed to be among the earliest west of the Susquehanna River. The building was being used as a tavern by Widow Piper by 1740 and was probably Shippensburg’s earliest public house.
Heritage Day, History Walk, and Ordinary Night
June 13, 2026
10:00AM – 8:00PM
Shippensburg History Center,
52 West King Street
Enjoy a full day of living history, demonstrations, and interactive experiences, including Continental soldier reenactments, historical cooking demonstrations, colonial games and activities, a walking tour at 11:00AM, Children’s programing, and the Franklin County Liberty Bell on display.
America 250 Flag Day Parade
June 14, 2026
2:00PM
Downtown Shippensburg
Join us as we celebrate 250 years under one flag with floats, music, and community groups. Family friendly fun for all ages with prizes awarded for each division.
Click Here for More Details
Great American Picnic
Saturday, June 27, 2026
2:00PM – 6:00PM
Shippensburg Memorial Park
Enjoy an afternoon of classic Americana with activities including a baseball game at 3:00PM, old-fashioned games, kids’ candy scramble, wagon rides, tie dye activities, and a town band concert at 4:30PM. Food will be available, including a Chicken BBQ Dinner at 4:00-6:00PM.
All activities are free!
Click Here for More Details
Yankee Doodle Dash 5K Run and Walk
Saturday. July 4, 2026
8:00 AM
Registration begins at 7:00 AM
Early Registration – $25, includes a T-shirt if registered by June 19.
Same-Day Registration – $30
Shippensburg Memorial Park, Large Pavilion
Kick off Independence Day with this community 5K Run and Walk. The course follows the Shippensburg Turkey Trot route. Participants are encouraged to wear red, white and blue.
Awards will be given to top overall male and female, age group winners, and best dressed participants.