Flag Day Event Kicks Off Simi Valley's America 250 Celebration
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — A free Flag Day celebration next Sunday will serve as an early preview of Simi Valley's preparations for America's 250th birthday in 2026.
The community event is set for June 14 at 1 p.m. in the Simi Valley Town Center Veterans Courtyard. The hour-long program will feature 28 flags representing different periods in American history, along with a visit from a Betsy Ross historical interpreter.
Each flag presentation will share the history, meaning and significance behind the evolution of the American flag throughout our nation’s journey.
Seating will be limited for the outdoor event. The Daughters of the American Revolution Rancho Simi Chapter is supporting the program.
The Flag Day event is sponsored by the VFW Military Museum, located at 1555 Simi Town Center Way. The museum preserves military history and artifacts for the community.
The Flag Day celebration connects to broader preparations underway for what city officials are calling a once-in-a-generation milestone. In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Simi Valley is preparing for the national milestone through the Simi250 initiative, according to the city's June City Focus newsletter. The celebration will center around the official anniversary date of Saturday, July 4, 2026.
The weekend of events will include a Simi250 5K run and walk on Friday, July 3. A family movie night under the stars and an All American Cruise through the city are also planned. The cruise will feature a 15-mile loop around Simi Valley, with participants encouraged to decorate their vehicles.
The celebration builds to July 4 with a pre-fireworks festival featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, family activities and a tribute to veterans. The Simi Valley Symphony Orchestra will perform live music to accompany the fireworks display that evening.
The Reagan Presidential Library will also offer free family activities during the celebration weekend, including live entertainment, historical reenactors, games, crafts and special America250 programming.
Local businesses will participate through the "Simi $2.50" program, offering special promotions throughout the community during the celebration.
The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley, partnering with the city and Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, will present the Star-Spangled Rock 'N Country Jam. The free event opens at 3 p.m. with live entertainment, food and fireworks. Community support funds the event, with proceeds benefiting local charities and organizations.
According to Simi250 organizers, the 5k Fun Run will take place along the Arroyo Simi. The festivities on July 3 and 4 aim to bring the community together to reflect on American history while looking toward the future.
The initiative represents Simi Valley's contribution to nationwide commemorations of the Declaration of Independence's signing. Communities across the country are planning similar celebrations for the historic anniversary.
"The celebrations in Simi Valley will make you proud to be an American, feel part of the community and celebrate the freedoms we enjoy right here at home," organizers said.
Details about all Simi250 events are available at simi250.com. Information about the signature 5K run is available at simi250.run.
Next Sunday's Flag Day event at the Town Center mall offers residents an early opportunity to participate in the patriotic programming leading up to the major anniversary celebration.