Gov. Kay Ivey announced Alabama’s America 250 Alabama Celebration at the State Capitol next Thursday, featuring a new 250th U.S. flag, live music, a performance by a viral student and Randy Owen, and an F-35 flyover ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
When Gov.. Kay Ivey takes the stage at the Alabama State Capitol next Thursday, it will be more than a ceremonial kickoff.. She’s inviting Alabamians to begin the state’s “historic summer” with an America 250 Alabama Celebration. highlighted by the official unveiling of a massive 250th-edition U.S.. flag to hang between the Capitol’s columns.
The governor’s announcement is set to play out on the front steps of the State Capitol on Thursday, May 21 at 11 a.m., just ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. The event is open to the public and requires no tickets.
“We live in the greatest nation on this Earth, and it is only fitting Alabama pay tribute to this country we are proud to call home. I am excited to invite my fellow Alabamians to the Capitol for a salute to our nation and to kick off this historic summer,” Ivey said.
She framed the celebration as a moment for Americans—and for Alabamians—who are approaching the lead-up to the national milestone on July 4, 2026. “There is truly no better time to be an American and an Alabamian than right now,” Ivey added.
The program will include live music from the 151st Army Band as guests arrive and take in the ceremony.. Ivey also is bringing in a performer from across the state: she invited Pell City High School student Amelia Alverson. who went viral for her rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner. ” to take the stage.
Music will continue at the heart of the event with a performance by Randy Owen of Alabama.
As the ceremony closes, the governor said, four F-35 fighter jets will conduct an official flyover over the State Capitol.
Ivey first announced the America 250 Alabama Celebration on Wednesday during a speech in Huntsville.. In her remarks and the accompanying press release. she said she looks forward to America’s 250th birthday on July 4. 2026. and described the Capitol event as a way to “kick off this milestone summer with her fellow Alabamians.”
Kay Ivey America 250 Alabama U.S. flag unveiling State Capitol Amelia Alverson Girls State Randy Owen F-35 flyover 151st Army Band Memorial Day weekend