BELLEFONTE — Ahead of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence next month, Bellefonte Borough Council formally recognized the nation’s semiquincentennial this week.

Council President Doug Johnson conferred the proclamation, which recognizes and celebrates the milestone, to Deb Burger, who is spearheading the borough’s America250 celebrations on behalf of Historic Bellefonte Inc.

He delivered the proclamation at council’s Monday evening meeting in the absence of Mayor Gene “Buddy” Johnson, who usually is responsible for issuing proclamations.

“It is my honor to represent this borough council and make this proclamation,” Johnson said.

In 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, asserting the right of the 13 American colonies to self-governance and freedom from British rule.

“This bold declaration laid the foundation for a new nation built upon the principles of liberty, democracy and justice, and over the past 250 years, the United States of America has grown and evolved while continually striving to uphold these foundational ideals,” Johnson read.

The proclamation noted that Pennsylvania played a pivotal role in the nation’s founding as the site where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted, and asserted that the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history, celebrate its achievements and honor those who contributed to its success.

“The Borough of Bellefonte takes pride in its rich heritage, strong sense of community and commitment to preserving the history and traditions that have helped shape both our region and our nation,” Johnson remarked.

The proclamation further noted that communities across the country are planning events, educational programs and commemorations to mark the anniversary. It encouraged residents, businesses and organizations to participate in America250 activities and reflect on the responsibilities of citizenship as the nation looks toward the future.

“The Borough of Bellefonte encourages all residents to participate in activities that honor our nation’s founding principles and celebrate the enduring spirit of freedom, civic engagement and public service,” he said.

Residents of Bellefonte will have an opportunity to do just that on Friday, July 3, the eve of the 250th anniversary. The borough will host a dedication of its Hometown Hero banners and a parade in honor of the semiquincentennial — the first such holiday parade in Bellefonte in several years.

Burger said about 50 groups have registered for the parade, including bands, twirling groups, floats and dignitaries. The community’s veterans will serve as the parade’s grand marshals.

The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Bellefonte Area High School and proceed through downtown to Talleyrand Park. There, attendees can take part in the annual Hometown Hero banner dedication, which will include a reading of names, food sampling tables celebrating the cultures that make up America’s “melting pot” and a 75-minute patriotic concert by the combined Bellefonte Community Band and State College Area Municipal Band.

A shuttle bus will run between Faith United Methodist Church and Talleyrand Park beginning at 4:30 p.m. and continuing until after 9 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs. Burger said the event is ideal for both local residents and visitors spending the holiday weekend in Centre County.

Once the new banners are installed, 80 Hometown Hero banners honoring more than 100 veterans and first responders will hang throughout the borough. The banners will remain on display for two years before being returned to their sponsors in the fall of 2028.

“That says a lot for our town to be able to do this,” Burger said.