Deer Creek State Park Lodge is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with two days of free activities, outdoor fun and a nighttime drone show on Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, 2026.
With events planned across both days, it is also a great reason to book a room or cabin and enjoy a September weekend at Deer Creek State Park.
The celebration will include a respectful tribute recognizing the 25th anniversary of September 11. All scheduled activities are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
Friday, September 11
Friday begins with an interpretive walk led by a naturalist from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m.
At 9:59 a.m., guests will observe a moment of silence in remembrance of those lost on September 11.
Additional Friday activities include:
- 12 to 2 p.m.: Touch a Truck
- 2 to 4 p.m.: Animal Ambassadors in the lodge lobby
- 4 to 6 p.m.: Juggler in the lodge lobby
Saturday, September 12
Saturday brings a full day of activities around the lodge and park.
The day begins with a classic car show from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. At noon, Tork’s RC Airshow will take place at the beach.
Other Saturday activities include:
- 12 to 4 p.m.: Face painting in the lodge lobby
- 1 to 3 p.m.: Touch a Truck
- 2 to 4 p.m.: Up Close Magic Show with Cowboy Mark
- 4 to 8 p.m.: Kids crafts in the lodge lobby
- 6 to 10 p.m.: DJ Bones at the pool
See the Sky Light Up Over Deer Creek
The weekend’s main event begins at 9 p.m. Saturday with “Remember: Lights in the Sky,” a synchronized drone show presented by Fantasy Drone Shows and Regency Hotel Management.
The show will feature illuminated formations, patriotic symbols and colorful scenes celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
Arrive early to enjoy the day’s activities, explore Deer Creek State Park and find a good spot before the show begins.
Turn It Into a Weekend Getaway
With activities on both Friday and Saturday, staying at Deer Creek State Park Lodge makes it easy to enjoy the entire celebration. Guests can choose from lodge rooms or cabins and enjoy convenient access to dining, trails, the lake, golf and other recreation throughout the park.
An overnight stay also means you can relax after Saturday night’s drone show instead of driving home. Rooms and cabins may fill quickly for this special weekend, so advance reservations are encouraged.
Book your stay at Deer Creek State Park Lodge
Plan Your Visit
Deer Creek State Park Lodge is located at:
22300 State Park Road 20
Mount Sterling, Ohio 43143
The America 250 celebration takes place Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, 2026. The drone show begins at 9 p.m. Saturday.
Visit the Deer Creek State Park Lodge event page for updates and additional information.
