A semi-truck holding parts of the America250 Wheel for the Capital City Celebration at the state Capitol Complex in ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
A semi-truck holding parts of the America250 Wheel for the Capital City Celebration at the state Capitol Complex in ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
Downtown ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä has a lot going on this week, and Capital City residents and those in the surrounding area should be encouraged to catch at least some of it.Â
Anyone passing by downtown has no doubt seen the huge Ferris wheel being assembled at the Capitol Complex — the largest portable one of its kind in existence.
The celebration at the Capitol will feature music from the likes of country act Alabama and the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, along with fireworks at 10 p.m. Friday. The Regatta opens Thursday with performances on the riverfront from Melissa Etheridge and Wynonna Judd, and numerous other musical acts lined up through the weekend, along with a carnival and many other events. The Regatta fireworks display is set to go off on Saturday, July 4, at 9:30 p.m.Â
With so much going on, ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä is going to be crowded once everything gets underway Thursday. That's a good thing for the city as it pertains to the local economy, but it's also a great thing for area residents and beyond who are looking for something to do.Â
The choices for food, fun and entertainment are sky high, and the city won't see anything quite like this again for a while. It's not every year the nation turns 250. Even those who are hesitant about crowds should find something to attend. For many, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime confluence of events.Â
This is something to be embraced, regardless of the politics of the moment.Â
Be prepared
The one thing everyone needs to be aware of and prepared for is the early July heat. A heat advisory from the National Weather Service is in effect for ÂÒÂ×ÄÚÉä from Tuesday to Friday, and the thermometer is only going to rise as the week progresses.Â
The mercury is forecasted to top off at a scorching 99 degrees on Thursday when these two celebrations begin. Temps are supposed to hit 97 again on Friday and will top 90 degrees Saturday and Sunday.Â
That heat will only intensify in large crowds. Keep sunscreen applied and stay hydrated. The latter goes double for those consuming alcohol, which dehydrates the body.Â
Attendees should plan accordingly and listen to their bodies if they feel lightheaded or fatigued. There's a lot of great fun to be had this coming week and weekend. Heatstroke doesn't need to be a part of it. Make good decisions and have a blast.Â
