The Great American State Fair Is Coming to the National Mall This June: Here's the Full Lineup and What to Expect

America's biggest birthday party is officially taking shape. The Great American State Fair, marking the nation's 250th anniversary, runs June 25 through July 10 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. - and it is free and open to the public.

What the event is: Organized by Freedom 250, the 16-day exposition stretches between 4th and 14th streets NW, spanning from the U.S. Capitol to the Washington Monument in what organizers describe as a World's Fair-style celebration. All 56 U.S. states and territories are represented, with live entertainment, immersive exhibits, patriotic tributes, innovation showcases, military demonstrations, cultural programming, and family-friendly attractions.

What's there beyond the concerts: Attractions include movie screenings, a 110-foot Ferris wheel overlooking the National Mall, the newly refurbished Smithsonian National Carousel, robotics and autonomous vehicle demonstrations, and augmented reality activations. Daily themed programming covers military appreciation, faith and values, innovation, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, and education. The July 4 Independence Day celebration is the centerpiece of the run, with live performances and a large-scale fireworks display over the nation's capital.

The concert lineup: Mainstage performances are scheduled every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night. The confirmed performers as of publication are:

• Vanilla Ice - June 26. His manager confirmed he is contracted and will perform, calling it an honor to help celebrate America's 250th anniversary.
  

• Flo Rida - no public statement withdrawing; listed as performing.
  

• Bret Michaels (of Poison) - no public statement withdrawing; listed as performing.
  

• C+C Music Factory - the Grammy-winning dance music group behind "Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)" remains listed. C+C Music Factory frontman Freedom Williams said publicly he was weighing his options as of Wednesday; no final confirmation either way has been issued.
  

Additional performers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Who stepped back: Within 24 hours of the May 27 lineup announcement, five acts either withdrew or clarified they were not confirmed. Morris Day confirmed that Morris Day and The Time would not participate, writing simply "It's a no for me." Young MC said performers were not informed about any political ties when they were approached, adding that he hopes to return to D.C. for an event that is not so politically charged. The Commodores stated they prefer not to align publicly with any single political party. Martina McBride, the four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, said she had specifically asked whether the event was nonpartisan before agreeing and was assured that it was - and stepped away when she learned otherwise. Representatives for Milli Vanilli said the group was never asked to perform, despite appearing on the announced lineup.

How to attend: Admission is free. Advance registration is encouraged, though walk-ups will be welcome. Full details and registration are at freedom250.org.

One of the daily themes throughout the 16 days is specifically dedicated to faith and values - a reminder that America's story, at its deepest roots, has always been one of people seeking to live according to their convictions.