CLEVELAND, Ohio – From Thomas Edison to Neil Armstrong, Toni Morrison to the Wright brothers, Ohio and Ohioans have played an outsized role in American history. The state plans to honor all of it between now and July 4, 2026, when the country celebrates its 250th birthday. Todd Kleismit, executive director of the (say that 10 times fast), has been working since early 2022 to put together a series of special programs and events, attractions and activities to help Ohioans and others celebrate the unique contributions the state has made to the nation.
Among the signature events planned: * , a statewide celebration of films showcasing Ohio actors, directors, writers, composers, locations and topics, shown in cities and towns across the state. The commission is hoping the state’s historic theaters, drive-ins, commercial and art house cinemas, as well as other settings, will take part in what it’s calling “100 days of Ohio movie magic,” running mid-February through May 2026. * Themed months of activities for all 12 months of 2026, including Ohio Originals in January (think Thomas Edison, Neil Armstrong, the Wright brothers and others); transportation in April; the outdoors in June; county and state fairs in August; veterans and first responders in November; and future Ohio in December.
* Special themed trails that Ohioans and visitors can experience to learn more about the history of the state and the nation. The first trail was launched in May, the , with several more in.
