ORANGE CO. – Planning is well underway for Orange County commemorating the 250th anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence in 2026. A dedicated committee of over 20 local representatives has been meeting since late last summer to organize various events, projects, and celebrations throughout the county.
The year-long festivities will officially commence on June 14, 2025, Flag Day, in historic downtown Orleans, coinciding with Indiana’s statewide kick-off. A colonial-style fair is planned for the day, encouraging attendees to don period costumes. The town park square will feature vendors, craft demonstrations, and information booths. A special flag-raising ceremony with reenactors in period attire and a children’s costume contest is also in the works.
Leading up to the main celebrations, Orange County will participate in the statewide “Two Lights for Tomorrow” event this April, commemorating Paul Revere’s historic ride. On April 18th and 19th, two symbolic lights will be displayed in the highest windows of the Courthouse in Paoli. Residents and businesses are encouraged to join in by displaying lighted candles or lanterns in their windows on those nights.
Additional key events are planned for Paoli, French Lick, and West Baden, including community gatherings reminiscent of the popular “Slices of Orange” held during the state and county’s bicentennial in 2016. Roger Moon and others will coordinate events across various townships, with more details to be released.
The planning committee has been brainstorming ways to showcase Orange County’s rich history, including its early settlers, significant residents, and historic sites. Plans include developing displays, exhibits, and programs leading up to and during the celebration.
During a recent meeting, Joe Lannan of the Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau expressed optimism about the county’s bid to host the Smithsonian exhibition, “Voices and Votes,” at the Visitor Center in French Lick in 2026. A decision on the exhibit’s location is expected by the end of the month.
The 175th anniversary of the Orange County Courthouse will be highlighted in 2025, and local veterans will be specially recognized.
Two significant projects are also in development: planting a “Liberty Tree” in a prominent location, symbolizing the gathering spot for early Patriots, and creating a historic mural depicting Orange County’s America 250 celebration.
The Orange County 250 committee will meet on April 8th at 6 p.m. at the Paoli Library. The public is encouraged to attend and contribute to the planning efforts.
An Orange County America 250 Facebook page will soon launch to provide updates on local events.
For statewide information, residents can visit the official Indiana America 250 website: https://www.in.gov/usa250/. State officials have also announced the availability of a new specialty license plate in 2025 to commemorate the anniversary.
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