Virginia City to Participate in Nationwide American Discovery Trail 250 Relay Celebration
VIRGINIA CITY, Nev. — On Saturday, July 18, 2026, at noon, Virginia City will join communities across the nation in celebrating America's 250th anniversary as part of the American Discovery Trail 250 Relay, a cross-country event honoring the enduring spirit of the Declaration of Independence.
The Virginia City relay segment will begin at the historic Fourth Ward School and conclude at the intersection of C Street and Six Mile Canyon Road, carrying the Declaration of Independence through one of Nevada's most iconic historic communities.
Adding a uniquely Virginia City touch to the celebration, local resident Kyle Blanchard will ride the Virginia City leg aboard a penny-farthing bicycle, bringing a sense of historic authenticity and living history to the event. The sight of a penny-farthing traveling down Virginia City's historic streets serves as a fitting tribute to the community's rich past and its role in the larger American story.
Kyle will be joined by American Discovery Trail relay coordinators and participants helping carry the Declaration of Independence across the country. Community members are encouraged to join the celebration and participate alongside the relay on foot, on hoof, or by analog bicycle. Whether walking, riding horseback, or traveling by traditional pedal-powered bicycle, participants are invited to help escort the relay through town and become part of this once-in-a-generation national event.
The American Discovery Trail 250 Relay is a nationwide effort connecting communities across the United States through a symbolic passing of the Declaration of Independence, celebrating 250 years of freedom, perseverance, innovation, and civic participation.
Residents, visitors, businesses, community organizations, and history enthusiasts are encouraged to gather along the route, bring American flags, wear patriotic colors, and help welcome the relay as it passes through town.
"This is a unique opportunity for Virginia City to participate in a celebration taking place across the entire nation. While our role may be one small segment of a much larger relay, it represents our community's place in the continuing story of America. We invite everyone to come out, celebrate, and be part of this historic moment." Alexia Sober, Chair of Virginia City Main Street.
Event Details
Event: American Discovery Trail 250 Relay
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: Noon
Location: Virginia City, Nevada
Route: Fourth Ward School to C Street and Six Mile Canyon Road
Featured Participant: Kyle Blanchard riding a historic penny-farthing bicycle
Community Participation: Join on foot, horseback, or analog bicycle and help escort the Declaration of Independence through Virginia City.
Whether you're a lifelong resident, a visitor, or simply someone who appreciates history, this is an opportunity to join a nationwide celebration and show your Virginia City pride.
A Small Town. A Big Role. A Nation United.
Learn more about American Discovery 250 Relay at discoverytrail.org/america-250-relay. Contact Virginia City Main Street at storeycountychamberofcommerce.com/contact/
