Pennsylvania’s pavilion was recognized as one of the premier state exhibits during the Great American State Fair, held on the National Mall as part of the country’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The Commonwealth received one of the event’s “Best in Show” honors during Friday’s closing ceremony. Representatives from U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick’s office accepted the award during a presentation on the Freedom Stage.
Pennsylvania’s participation resulted from a bipartisan effort led by McCormick and U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, along with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and a coalition of 55 Pennsylvania organizations, businesses and industry partners.
According to the senators, the pavilion was funded entirely through private partnerships without taxpayer money.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association and Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association were among the organizations supporting the exhibit.
“Pennsylvania’s story is America’s story, and this recognition is a tribute to everyone who helped bring that story to life,” McCormick said. “From Independence Hall and Valley Forge to our farms, factories, and innovators, the Commonwealth has shaped our nation for 250 years.”
McCormick thanked Fetterman, Rollins and the participating Pennsylvania organizations for helping the Commonwealth establish a presence that reflected its history.
Fetterman said the pavilion gave visitors an opportunity to learn about the people, industries and communities that have shaped Pennsylvania.
“I’m incredibly proud of all the Pennsylvanians that showed up to make sure our Commonwealth had the spotlight it deserved right there on the National Mall during America’s 250th birthday,” Fetterman said. “What makes Pennsylvania truly awesome are the men, women, and children who call it home.”
The pavilion highlighted Pennsylvania’s role in American history, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the sacrifices made at Valley Forge and the Battle of Gettysburg. It also focused on the Commonwealth’s contributions as part of the “Arsenal of Democracy.”
Exhibits featured Pennsylvania agriculture, manufacturing, energy, innovation and small businesses, along with several of the Commonwealth’s iconic companies and products.
Freedom 250 recognized several state pavilions during the closing ceremony. Pennsylvania’s “Best in Show” award placed its exhibit among the top state displays presented during the national celebration.