CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Gov. Patrick Morrisey on Thursday announced new ways West Virginians can take part in the nation’s 250th anniversary, including a statewide bell‑ringing event and the launch of an official America250 merchandise line.
The announcement is part of the next phase of West Virginia’s America250 celebration, which will culminate in a four‑day festival at the Capitol Complex this July.
“West Virginia’s heritage plays a meaningful role in America’s story,” Morrisey said. “We hope folks will join us for the celebration and take home a piece of the America250 collection as a reminder of this historic milestone.”
The commemorative merchandise line includes clothing, coins, hats, pins, mugs, ornaments and other keepsakes created in partnership with America250. Items will be sold at West Virginia State Park gift shops and online, with more products expected to be added.
Preparations are also underway for the nightly 3D light projection show planned for the July celebration. Specialized drones are currently mapping parts of the Capitol Complex to support development of the large‑scale display, modeled after the Washington Monument projection in Washington, D.C.
Morrisey also announced the America250 Bell‑Ringing Initiative, inviting churches, schools, veterans groups, civic organizations and communities statewide to ring bells together at noon on July 4, 2026, in honor of the Declaration of Independence.
“This initiative gives communities across West Virginia a chance to come together in recognition of the freedoms and founding principles that shaped our nation,” Morrisey said. “It’s just the beginning. We’re scheduling events across the state so every West Virginian can take part in this milestone.”
Groups interested in participating can register online to be included on an interactive statewide map of bell‑ringing ceremonies. More information, event updates and registration links are available at wv250.com and on social media at @westvirginia250.
