Several States Cite Cost in Skipping Official Role at Freedom 250 Great American State Fair

Four states told The Epoch Times they’re declining an official role over cost, while Freedom 250 says no fee is required and all 50 states will be represented.

The Dome of the U.S. Capitol Building is visible as a Ferris wheel is constructed as part of Freedom 250's Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington on June 19, 2026. The 16-day World's Fair-scale celebration of America's 250th birthday will run from June 25 to July 10, showcasing all U.S. states and territories. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Several states will not send official, state-funded delegations to the Great American State Fair, the 16-day celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary that opens Thursday on the National Mall. The states that explained the decision to The Epoch Times pointed to cost.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Freedom 250, the nonprofit organizing the fair, said there was no required fee to take part, that all 50 governors were invited, and that all 50 states and six U.S. territories will be represented and have booths—with many governments routing their participation through partners such as tourism boards, cultural foundations, and companies.