What the Media Missed About the Great American State Fair

• July 9, 2026

People dressed in American flag-themed clothing watch colorful fireworks light up the night sky, celebrating together outdoors.

People watch fireworks from the Great American State Fair on July 4, 2026, in the District of Columbia. (Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images)

Media outlets such as The Guardian and Forbes described the Great American State Fair as a disappointment because of extreme heat, weather delays, and lower-than-expected crowds. But as a volunteer during the event’s opening days, I saw firsthand that the event was much more than the negative headlines suggested.

Presented by Freedom 250, the free event on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., offers visitors a chance to explore more than 150 exhibits representing all 56 states and territories, along with businesses, innovators, and civic organizations.

Over its 16-day run from June 25 to July 10, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions, including family-friendly activities, musical performances, military ensembles, and an iconic Ferris wheel. Each day features a special theme, from military and veterans appreciation to longevity, innovation, and the future of health.

Rather than attending as a visitor, I spent the first few days volunteering at the Arizona booth, representing my home state. As a proud patriot, volunteering allowed me to help commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary while showcasing what makes the Grand Canyon State special.

The Arizona exhibit offered an immersive virtual experience beginning with a journey through Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon where tourists can tour the site with an authorized Navajo guide. Visitors then explored northern Arizona’s ponderosa pine forests before concluding their journey with “Stargazing over the Desert,” a peaceful nightscape illuminated by the stars.

By the end of the second day, the booth had welcomed more than 12,000 visitors.

The conversations I had throughout the event were the highlight of my experience. I met visitors from Mexico, Europe, and across the United States, all eager to learn more about the country.

It was especially rewarding to share Arizona’s history, landscapes, and culture while answering questions about what makes the state so special. I was grateful for the opportunity to encourage many families to explore the American West and to see visitors become excited about adding new destinations to their travel plans.

Volunteering offered a unique perspective, allowing me to experience the event through the curiosity of visitors exploring exhibits across the National Mall. The experience left me with a greater sense of pride in my country and reinforced my commitment to service.

I look forward to continuing as a volunteer at the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C., on Aug. 21-23 and taking part in another opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Abigail Matsuyoshi | Administrative Assistant

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