The frontman of Poison, Bret Michaels, is part of an eclectic lineup of performers participating in the Great American State Fair as part of the Freedom 250 celebrations this summer.
The Great American State Fair will occur in Washington, D.C., over a 16-day period on the area between the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument. It aims to highlight all U.S. states and territories in a World’s Fair-style event. Alongside musical performances and carnival rides (including a 110-foot Ferris wheel and the newly refurbished Smithsonian National Carousel), each day will focus on a specific theme that showcases what has made America great.
Who Is Performing at the Great American State Fair?
Bret Michaels is confirmed as one of the performers, scheduled to take the stage on July 3 as part of the festivities.
The first artist to perform will be country music superstar Martina McBride on June 25. The performance on June 26 will feature the “I Love the ’90s” tour, showcasing acts like C+C Music Factory, Vanilla Ice, Milli Vanilli, and Young MC.
On June 27, funk and R&B legends The Commodores, along with Morris Day and the Time, will take the stage.
Flo Rida will perform on July 2, followed by Michaels on July 3. Additionally, the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, Airmen of Note Jazz Ensemble, and Army Downrange Rock will also be featured.
More acts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for the event are free, but attendees must register for shows online. Visit the Great American State Fair website for registration.
What Bret Michaels Said on Memorial Day?
Bret Michaels has always been one of America’s more patriotic rockers, and his participation in the Great American State Fair aligns perfectly with his image.
READ MORE: Poison’s ’90s Tour Rider Reveals Candy + Canned Fish Demands
This Memorial Day, Michaels shared a post on Instagram reflecting on his family’s military history.
“As the son of a veteran, and to all those in my family who served and continue to serve — from my Uncle Nick Sychak, who made the ultimate sacrifice in combat during WWII, to my cousin Bob, who received two Purple Hearts in Vietnam, and to all our veterans — on behalf of my family and myself, I dedicate this day in memory of our fallen heroes,” Michaels expressed.
“To those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms, for our right to have opinions, and for the ability to honor, remember, and celebrate a day like today… thank you. Have an incredible day, my friends,” he added.
What Are the Theme Days for the Great American State Fair?
The Great American State Fair aims to unite people from all 56 states and territories to celebrate traditions, innovation, music, military heritage, freedom, and entrepreneurial spirit that define our nation,” stated Freedom 250 CEO Keith Krach, as reported by The Hill.
“The performers, innovators, military heroes, and everyday Americans showcased here represent the very best of who we are and the boundless opportunities ahead,” Krach continued, describing this gathering in the nation’s capital as “a moment for America to come together.”
The theme days for this 16-day event are as follows (as shared by Freedom 250):
Friday, June 26 — Land & Prosperity
Land & Expansion reflects America’s vast landscape and honors ranching, agriculture, land stewardship, and resilience that built the nation.
Saturday, June 27 — The American Canvas
Arts & Culture represent the creative force defining American identity. It honors writers, musicians, filmmakers, designers, and visual artists whose work shapes perceptions both domestically and internationally.
Sunday, June 28 — Military & Veterans Appreciation Day
Military Appreciation Day pays tribute to active duty service members, veterans, and their families who support them.
Monday, June 29 — Everyday Health and Well Being | MAHA Monday
Make America Healthy Again focuses on healthy food choices and wellness. This day emphasizes how wellness can be enjoyable and integral to daily life.
Tuesday, June 30— Future of America | Innovation, Technology & Progress
Innovation showcases bold inventions that propel America forward; it offers a front-row seat to creativity shaping future advancements.
Wednesday, July 1 — Faith, Values, and Inspiration
This day highlights beliefs that fuel the American Spirit while celebrating ideas that continue to advance America.
Thursday, July 2 — Horsepower of America
Celebrating engines that propel this nation forward; it tells stories of freedom through power and craftsmanship.
Friday, July 3 — Wings of Freedom
Wings of Freedom honors America’s instinct to rise above challenges while reflecting courage in overcoming obstacles.
Saturday, July 4 — Independence Day Celebration
A grand-scale celebration marking 250 years of American history featuring live performances and a spectacular fireworks display over the nation’s capital.
Sunday, July 5 — Heritage & Legacy
Heritage & Legacy Day showcases traditions that shaped America’s journey while honoring past generations’ contributions.
Monday, July 6 — Longevity, Innovation & the Future of Health | MAHA Monday
This day inspires healthier living through wellness breakthroughs that transform lifestyles into exciting possibilities.
Tuesday, July 7 — Future of America | Education and Opportunity
Highlighting how young Americans are preparing today to shape tomorrow’s future through diverse career pathways.
Wednesday, July 8 — Family Life and Community Support
Celebrating faith and community connections that uplift society while fostering joy in everyday life.
Thursday, July 9 — Engines of Enterprise
Honoring entrepreneurs who turn ideas into scalable industries at both national and global levels.
Friday, July 10 — The Next 250 | Innovation
Celebrating advancements from artificial intelligence to energy independence; this day emphasizes engineering America’s future.
21 Rock + Metal Artists Showing Patriotism
Gallery Credit: Lauryn Schaffner





