Hancock Historical Museum to Host “America’s Birthday Bash” on July 4

Findlay, OH — The Hancock Historical Museum invites the community to a once-in-a-generation celebration, “America’s Birthday Bash,” on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 12:00–2:00 p.m. at the museum campus, located at 422 W. Sandusky Street in Findlay.

This special event marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, a historic milestone known as America 250, and reimagines the museum’s long-standing Fourth of July Ice Cream Social into a casual, inclusive “birthday party” for the nation and Hancock County’s contributions to it.

Guests are invited to gather following the downtown parade to enjoy a festive afternoon featuring free ice cream from Dietsch’s Brothers, root beer floats, and birthday cupcakes, along with live entertainment from Night Jazz, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to explore the museum’s exhibits at no cost. This event is free to attend, no registration necessary, thanks to The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Fun for All series of free community events.

“For us, ‘America’s Birthday Bash’ is not just a celebration. We are extending an invitation for our community to come together,” said the museum’s director, Abigail Inbody. “Through something as simple as ice cream and cake, we’re creating space for people to connect with one another and with the stories of what brought us here 250 years later.”

Rooted in its mission to “Remember our past, Educate the present, and Inspire the future,” the Hancock Historical Museum serves as the region’s leading resource for preserving and sharing the heritage of Hancock County. The museum, founded in 1970, offers exhibits, programs, and community events that connect thousands of visitors each year to local history.

“This event brings our mission to life in a fun and meaningful way,” Inbody added. “As we celebrate America’s 250th ‘birthday,’ we want people to reflect on our shared history and feel inspired by the role each of us plays in shaping the future.”

“America’s Birthday Bash” is part of a broader series of America 250 commemorations happening throughout Findlay and Hancock County in 2026, highlighting local contributions to the American story and encouraging community engagement across generations.

Parking will be limited at the museum; walking the short distance from the parade route is encouraged.

For more information, please contact the Hancock Historical Museum at (419) 423-4433 or visit

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The Hancock Historical Museum is a privately funded, nonprofit history museum founded in 1970 driven to honor Hancock County’s past while inspiring its future. It is the only nonprofit organization preserving Hancock County’s rich heritage through vibrant educational programs, dynamic exhibits and preservation efforts. Thousands of children and adults tour the museum’s nine facilities every year to learn more about the community and its contributions to the region.

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