Curious about how Shelby County will celebrate America’s 250th birthday? Join us for an exciting America 250 Meet & Greet at the Wallace Innovation and Learning Center!
This free, community-focused event offers a sneak peek into the local plans for the America 250 celebration in 2026—marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Stop by to learn about upcoming events, community projects, volunteer opportunities, and how you can be part of this historic milestone. From parades and public art to storytelling, local history, and educational programming, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.
Meet the organizers, ask questions, share ideas, and find out how you or your organization can get involved. Whether you’re a student, community leader, business owner, or history lover—your voice and participation matter.
Light refreshments will be provided. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

Lace up your sneakers and join us for the Canal Trail 5K – Run for Rescue, a fun and meaningful event supporting the animals of Shelby County!
Hosted by S.C.A.R.F., this 5K run/walk winds through the scenic Canal Feeder Trail in Sidney. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just out for a casual walk, this event is a great way to enjoy nature, get active, and make a difference in the lives of local shelter animals.
Proceeds from the 5K go directly to S.C.A.R.F., helping provide medical care, food, shelter, and forever homes to animals in need. Every step you take helps support this mission!
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to join the fun—after all, it’s for the animals! Water stations will be available along the route for both humans and their four-legged running buddies.
Bring your friends, your pup, or just yourself—and help us run toward a brighter future for Shelby County’s shelter pets!

Celebrate Independence Day in star-spangled style at the 4th of July America 250 Parade, part of Shelby County’s lead-up to the America 250 celebration honoring our nation’s 250th birthday in 2026!
This festive, family-friendly parade steps off at 10:00 AM from Court Square in downtown Sidney and winds its way to the Shelby County Fairgrounds, bringing patriotic pride and community spirit along every block.
Come cheer for floats, marching bands, classic cars, veterans’ groups, civic organizations, and plenty of red, white, and blue! Local businesses, schools, and clubs will show off their creativity and pride in what promises to be one of the biggest and most meaningful parades of the year.
Whether you’re waving a flag from the sidewalk or joining a group in the lineup, this parade is for everyone. Children, families, and community members of all ages are encouraged to wear their brightest patriotic gear and take part in the celebration.
After the parade, head to the fairgrounds for food vendors, family activities, live entertainment, and more 4th of July fun!
This event is part of the America 250 Ohio initiative, leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026—a time to remember our shared history and look forward to our collective future.
Admission is free, and all are welcome!
Route: Starts at Court Square, Downtown Sidney → Ends at Shelby County Fairgrounds

Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of fun, family, and patriotic pride at the America 250 4th of July Fair at the Shelby County Fairgrounds!
After the parade through downtown Sidney, head to the fairgrounds for a jam-packed day of live music, hands-on history, kids’ activities, and classic summer fun. This event is part of Shelby County’s ongoing celebration leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
Explore:
Family games and crafts
Interactive history timelines and exhibits
Live music and entertainment
Local vendors and artisan booths
Food trucks and summer treats
Children will love the Kids’ Corner, full of games and themed crafts, while adults and history buffs can stroll through America 250 exhibits featuring moments, people, and innovations that helped shape our nation.
Enjoy performances by local musicians, browse unique handmade goods, and grab delicious bites from a variety of food vendors.
As the sun sets, the celebration continues with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk—a perfect ending to a day full of hometown pride and historic reflection.
Admission is free, and all are welcome!
Bring your lawn chairs, your family, and your patriotic spirit for a day of community celebration honoring America’s past, present, and future.

The magic of the season returns as the Shelby County Historical Society presents the 27th Annual Christmas of Yesteryear—a heartwarming holiday tradition that captures the charm of an old-fashioned Christmas.
Held at the Ross Historical Center in downtown Sidney, this free family event invites guests of all ages to experience the sights, sounds, and sweet nostalgia of Christmases past. Step through the doors and into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, handmade decorations, and the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air.
Little elves (and big ones too) can enjoy hands-on holiday crafts, including gingerbread houses and ornament making—perfect for sparking creativity and making festive memories. Friendly volunteers will guide visitors through each merry moment.
Live demonstrations of traditional holiday skills offer a peek into how families once prepared for the season—with simple, heartfelt touches that still inspire today.
And yes, Santa Claus will be there! Children are invited to share their Christmas wishes and snap a magical photo with the jolly old elf—your first picture is free, courtesy of SCHS.
Throughout the center, guests can nibble on fresh popcorn, sample roasted chestnuts, and take in the cozy glow of vintage decorations. With seasonal music and warm holiday spirit around every corner, it’s the perfect way to kick off the most wonderful time of the year.
A beloved tradition for nearly three decades, Christmas of Yesteryear brings neighbors together to celebrate not just the holiday—but the timeless traditions that make it meaningful.
Whether you’re reliving favorite childhood moments or creating new ones with your own little snowflakes, this event promises festive cheer, classic fun, and maybe even a surprise or two under the tree.
Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. So bundle up, bring the whole family, and step into the joy of holidays gone by at the 27th Annual Christmas of Yesteryear!