Make waves this summer during the America 250 Deer Creek Beach Bash! Part of the statewide America 250-Ohio celebration, this lakeside event will feature live entertainment, games, and activities celebrating 250 years of American independence. Bring your family, your picnic blanket, and your patriotic spirit for a fun-filled day on the water. More details to come!
More Information: ohiodnr.gov/america250
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a day of creativity and nature at A.W. Marion State Park. Enjoy outdoor art activities, demonstrations, and family-friendly fun as part of America 250-Ohio, a statewide celebration honoring 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Discover how art and the outdoors come together to tell Ohio’s story.
More details to come!
As the United States prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence in 2026, two of Pickaway County’s most scenic destinations — A.W. Marion State Park and Deer Creek State Park — will take part in the statewide America 250-Ohio celebration.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently announced more than 50 special events planned across the state in 2026, honoring the history, beauty, and community spirit that define Ohio. Among them are two can’t-miss experiences happening right here at home:
America 250 Arts at A.W. Marion State Park
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Celebrate creativity in nature with outdoor art displays and family-friendly activities that showcase the connection between Ohio’s natural spaces and artistic expression.
☀️ America 250 Deer Creek Beach Bash
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Soak up summer fun with live entertainment, outdoor recreation, and community pride along the beautiful shores of Deer Creek State Park.
These events are part of a year-long statewide initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, bringing people together through shared stories, outdoor adventures, and Ohio hospitality.
At the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau, we’re proud to help share these experiences and support the partners who make them possible. Events like these highlight why tourism matters — connecting people to our parks, strengthening local businesses, and inspiring new visitors to discover what makes Pickaway County such a special place to explore.
In 2023, visitor spending in Pickaway County generated $209.7 million in total economic impact and supported 1,552 local jobs, according to a Tourism Economics report for TourismOhio. Every visit helps our communities grow and thrive.
Plan your visit and follow along for more America 250-Ohio updates at pickaway.com or visit ohiodnr.gov/america250 for statewide event listings.
Join us on Saturday, September 20, 2025, for a day filled with community pride, inspiring stories, and small-town hospitality as Ohio’s Small Town Museum marks its 50th Anniversary!
Museum Open House
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
34 Long Street, Ashville, OH 43103
Step into local history during a special open house showcasing five decades of memories and milestones.
️ Anniversary Dinner & Dessert
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Teays Valley Field House, 3887 St. Rt. 752, Ashville
Enjoy a delicious meal catered by Skool Boyz BBQ, plus a lineup of honored guests who’ve made their mark nationally and internationally, all with roots in Ashville.
️ Tickets: $30 per person
✨ Special Guests Include:
Jim Cook – IndyCar racing & Johnny Lightning
Champ Henson – OSU football, NFL
Dr. Diana Blaney – NASA/JPL
Bob Hoover – coach, local legend
Allan Wallace – Pentagon first responder
Nolan Hines – Cruise ship magician
Tiffany McDaniel – Acclaimed novelist
Emily Legg – “I Voted” logo creator
Jack Legg – Ashville historian
Ross Larue – Inventor and scientist
…and more!
Celebrate the past, present, and future of one of Ohio’s most beloved hometown museums. A meaningful evening for history lovers, neighbors, and anyone who loves a good local story.
