May 19, 2026 Governor Morrisey Announces America 250 Celebration at the State Capitol ...

Charleston, W.Va. - Governor Patrick Morrisey today officially launched West Virginia's celebration of America's 250th anniversary at the Culture Center in Charleston, announcing a four-day, family-friendly event on the Capitol Complex grounds from July 2-5.

"As we approach America's 250th anniversary, West Virginia is proud to host a celebration that honors our nation's history while bringing families and communities together," said Governor Morrisey. "We're excited to showcase our Capitol Complex and welcome families from across West Virginia and beyond for a world-class Fourth of July celebration in the Mountain State."

The centerpiece of the celebration will be the America 250 Wheel, the world's tallest portable Ferris wheel, offering free rides and breathtaking views of the Capital City. Held alongside the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, the Capital City Celebration will add to the excitement of the July Fourth weekend in Charleston.

"We're thrilled to host a larger-than-life event to honor America's 250th anniversary," said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. "With the nightly light show and America 250 Wheel, this event celebrates our nation while giving guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We hope families will join us for the four-day celebration at the Capitol Complex over July Fourth weekend!"

Capital City Celebration Event Highlights

The four-day celebration will transform the West Virginia Capitol Complex into a destination for family-friendly entertainment and patriotic celebration.

Standing 230 feet tall, the America 250 Wheel will offer panoramic views stretching up to 14 miles from the top. The wheel features 45 gondolas, each representing a U.S. president, with seating for six riders per gondola and the ability to accommodate up to 1,600 guests per hour. At night, a 256-color LED display will illuminate the Charleston skyline.

The celebration will also feature inflatables, games, food vendors, Capitol tours, and living history experiences for visitors of all ages. Free shuttle service will connect the Capitol Complex and Regatta festivities throughout the event.

Each evening will conclude with a 3D light projection show on the State Capitol inspired by the acclaimed Washington Monument display in Washington, D.C. The presentation will highlight key moments in both American and West Virginia history.

Governor's America 250 Task Force

During the event, the Governor also announced the Governor's America 250 Task Force, made up of the following individuals:

• West Virginia University President Michael Benson
• Senator Brian Helton
• Cabinet Secretary Eric Householder
• Former Delegate Kayla Kessinger
• Jim Laurita
• Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt
• Conrad Lucas
• Jim Martin
• Delegate Pat McGeehan
• First Lady Denise Morrisey
• Jim Ruland
• Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby
• Adjutant General Jim Seward
• Lee Snyder
• Marshall University President Brad D. Smith

To access photos of the America 250 Wheel, click here. For more event information and updates, visit wv250.com and follow @westvirginia250 on Facebook and Instagram. To purchase the limited-edition America 250 license plate, visit your local DMV or order online at dmv.wv.gov.