Connell Celebrates America’s 250th

July 9, 2026

By: Katherine Trowbridge

Connell WA - Connell celebrated America’s 250th birthday in grand fashion as volunteers from across the community came together to organize an afternoon and evening filled with patriotism, family fun, music, food, and fireworks.

The celebration, held July 4, was intentionally scheduled to begin later in the day, allowing residents time to attend the Basin City Parade, or enjoy family traditions before gathering together at Pioneer Park.

The festivities opened with a tribute to the nation’s founding. Volunteers of all ages and walks of life read the Declaration of Independence. Jim Lundine was joined by Mayor Shelly Harper as they shared a brief presentation on American history, while the local musicians invited the crowd to join in singing the National Anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the day’s events.

Live music continued throughout the afternoon, featuring a blend of classic Americana favorites, including This Land Is Your Land and Take Me Home, Country Roads, along with more contemporary songs such as Chicken Fried. The entertainment concluded with a worship set celebrating the God many believe has blessed this nation.

Guests enjoyed a traditional Fourth of July meal of hamburgers and hot dogs accompanied by homemade apple pie, fresh lemonade and homemade root beer. Throughout the day, friends and neighbors gathered around picnic tables to share a meal, sing along with the music and reconnect with one another.

Children and families also had plenty to keep them busy. Rock painting, chalk art, and a variety of races filled the park, including hobby horse competitions and a mini triathlon.

One of the afternoon’s most entertaining events was the homemade boat race in the Pioneer Park pool. The competition brought cheers from spectators, a few moments of disappointment and even a pair of impromptu “tugboats” as bystanders jumped in to rescue one craft that stubbornly refused to stop circling the pool. A boat designed by Connell Mayor Shelly Harper carried Keenan and Bowen Sconce to the winning finish.

The hobby horse races challenged participants with an obstacle course featuring jumps, water hazards and other surprises. The “fanciest prancer” was Andrea. Winners in each age group were Quintan (age 3-5), Noah and Geyson (age - 8), Bowen (age 9-11), and Tean (age 12-14).

Although small in size, the mini triathlon proved to be one of the day’s most challenging competitions. Teams completed a swim in the pool, a run through the park, and a tricycle course around the skate park. The Franklin County Volunteer Fire Department team of Helen Tobin, Henry Lopez and Brandy Fox claimed the championship, with Tobin completing the swim, Lopez the run and Fox the tricycle leg.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees also purchased raffle tickets for the chance to win a giant metal chicken. When the drawing was held, Tre Kinne took home the unique prize.

The celebration concluded with a fireworks show over Connell High School that many spectators described as “the best ever.” Brilliant bursts of color and booming displays lit up the night sky, bringing the community together for a memorable finale as America marked 250 years of independence.

The success of the celebration reflected the countless hours donated by volunteers who worked behind the scenes to create a day that honored the nation’s history while bringing the Connell community together in celebration.