Celebrate America's 250th Birthday with the CAF
(Nationwide, June 24, 2026) – This Fourth of July marked the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. It was a time to celebrate our nation's history, reflect on how far we have come, and honor the people and events that shaped our country. The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) was proud to join in the celebration by showcasing historic aircraft and aviation heritage across the nation. From thrilling flyovers to unique opportunities to see and ride in legendary warbirds, CAF Units helped communities commemorate this milestone anniversary in unforgettable ways.
If you were inspired by these events and would like to help ensure the Commemorative Air Force can continue to Educate, Inspire, and Honor for generations to come, we invite you to consider making a gift to support the CAF's mission.
Communities across the country welcomed CAF aircraft and volunteers as they shared living history with thousands of visitors. We invite you to explore some of the news stories below that captured these special events and highlighted the impact our Units made during this historic Independence Day celebration.
In the News
CAF aircraft and volunteers helped communities across the country celebrate Independence Day. Explore some of the news stories that captured these special events and highlighted the impact our Units made during this historic Independence Day celebration.
PENNSYLVANIA
Rare WWII aircraft touch down in Erie, offer flights WWII Bombers Make Tour Stop in Erie Erie Museum Celebrates Return of US Brig Niagara US Brig Niagara Flagship of July 4th ActivitiesNEW YORK
West Point's Independence Day celebration Fourth of July festivities will be a Plenty Patriotism Fills West Point's July 4 Celebration B-29 Soars Over Spanish ShipTEXAS
Where to celebrate Fourth of July in San Antonio and surrounding areas Locals Celebrate All Sorts of Ways in La Grange Fourth of July events in The Woodlands Fourth of July events in Houston Tyler Texas Warbird Expo for America 250VIRGINIA
Car show, warbirds celebrate America's 250th WWII Planes Visit Manassas Wheels and Warbirds in CulpeperNEW HAMPSHIRE
Rare WWII warbird coming in for a landing in Concord World War II torpedo bomber to arrive in ConcordCALIFORNIA
America 250 Celebration at Riverside AirportARIZONA
Mesa has the coolest way to mark a great occasion Mesa Pulls out the Stops for Independence DayMINNESOTA
Twin Cities Weekend GuideThe CAF's B-29 Superfortress FIFI and P-51 Mustang Gunfighter joined the U.S. Navy's International Aerial Review over New York City as part of Sail 250. The aircraft flew alongside military and civilian participants in a formation of as many as 185 fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft from the United States and international partners. The aerial review passed over the Verrazzano Bridge, along the Hudson River, and over the International Parade of Sail. The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, led the review, which began at approximately 10:15 a.m.
Later that day, CAF aircraft participated in a flyover at the United States Military Academy at West Point as part of the academy's Independence Day celebration. The participating CAF aircraft were FIFI, Gunfighter, the P-51 Mustang Tuskegee Airmen, R4D Ready 4 Duty, C-45 Bucket of Bolts, and AT-6 Texan Nella, along with several privately owned historic aircraft.
Together, the aircraft represented multiple generations of American military aviation and served as a flying tribute to the service members and military families whose dedication and sacrifice helped preserve the freedoms celebrated each Independence Day.
Watch Footage From the B-29 Flying Over New York Harbor
from the U.S. Navy's Aerial Review at Sail250
Saturday, July 4, 2026
9:30 a.m. ET
"These events provided a unique opportunity to connect Americans with their history through the sights and sounds of authentic historic aircraft," said Chris Volpe, CAF volunteer and lead coordinator for the West Point flyover. "To participate in Independence Day commemorations at both New York City and West Point is a tremendous honor. These aircraft represent the courage, service, and sacrifice of generations of Americans, and we are proud to help honor that legacy on such a significant day."
The Commemorative Air Force operates one of the world's largest fleets of flying historic military aircraft. Through flight experiences, air shows, educational programs, and community events, the organization works to Educate, Inspire, and Honor by connecting people with the stories of those who served.
For more information about the Commemorative Air Force, visit www.commemorativeairforce.org.
