As the US braces to mark its 250th birth anniversary in 2026, President Donald Trump has unveiled numerous festivities under the banner ‘Freedom 250.’ In a video announcement from Freedom 250, which is a national, non-partisan organisation leading the Trump administration’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Trump revealed his plans for the ‘Patriot Games’.
What are the Patriot Games?
The Patriot Games are a four-day athletic competition designed to showcase the young talent of the country and reinforce themes of patriotism and unity, as per Trump’s speech.
The games are set to be nationally televised and intend to “show off the best of American skill, sportsmanship and competitive spirit”, Newsweek reported.
The games, as outlined by Trump, will bring together high school athletes from every state and territory and every delegation will include at least one man and one woman, selected to represent their state in a variety of athletic contests.
When will Patriot Games be held?
According to CNN, Trump said the Patriot Games will be held in the fall next year. In July, Trump previewed the competition, saying at the time it would be televised and led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy.
Trump had also highlighted his plans to begin construction soon on a new arch monument in the nation’s capital.
“We are the only major place without a triumphal arc. A beautiful triumphal arc, one like in Paris, where they have the great, a beautiful arc. They call it the Arc de Triomphe, and we’re going to have one in Washington, DC, very soon,” Trump had said, as per CNN.
Democrats compare Patriot Games to Hunger Games
Several Democrats have mocked the upcoming Patriot Games, comparing the athletic competition to ‘The Hunger Games’. a dystopian young adult novel and popular movie franchise in which children are forced to fight to the death in televised arenas.
Which other events are planned for the US’ 250th birthday?
A UFC fight on the South Lawn is another of Trump’s ideas for the 250th celebration and will take place on his birthday, June 14.
“On Flag Day, we will have a one-of-a-kind UFC event here at the White House. It’ll be the greatest champion fighters in the world, all fighting that same night. The great Dana White is hosting, and it’s going to be something special,” Trump said.
Themed art exhibits and new tours of national monuments will also take place, Athletic Business reported.