Orange Park and Fleming Island residents can attend a free, daylong America 250 celebration on Oct. 14 at the Historic Triangle in Green Cove Springs.

The county event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features live patriotic music, food trucks, local vendors and historical tributes, according to a Clay County Government announcement. A commemorative ceremony at 2:50 p.m. will include a proclamation signing by state, local and federal officials at the Historic Courthouse.

Admission is free.

Why the county picked Oct. 14

The county chose Oct. 14 because of what happened on that date in 1774. The First Continental Congress adopted the Declaration and Resolves, asserting that colonists were entitled to "life, liberty and property." That document foreshadowed the Declaration of Independence and marked an early step toward American independence.

Months of America 250 events in Clay County

The Oct. 14 celebration caps months of America 250 programming in Clay County. The Board of County Commissioners voted 5-0 on June 23 to approve a proclamation for the Fourth of July celebrating 250 years of the United States, according to meeting minutes. Chair Kristen Burke introduced the item, and Commissioner Betsy Condon read the proclamation aloud. Commissioner Jim Renninger moved for approval.

A nationally traveling Freedom 250 Mobile Museum also stopped at the Clay County Administration Building in Green Cove Springs June 15-17. The free exhibit offered immersive experiences focused on the nation's founding.

Permanent Charters of Freedom display in progress

Separately, the county is building a permanent Charters of Freedom display at the Historic Triangle. The monument will feature steel-etched replicas of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, donated by Foundation Forward Inc. A time capsule will accompany the display, and every sponsor's name will be placed inside it. Sponsorship levels range from $100 to $25,000, according to a county announcement. The display is a separate project from the Oct. 14 celebration.

Specific officials, musical performers, parking details and accessibility information had not been published as of Sept. 19.

Residents can find more information at ClayCountyGov.com/America250.

What's ahead in Clay County:

  • Oct. 14 — America 250 celebration, Historic Triangle, Green Cove Springs, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.