OCEANSIDE, CA — The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Presenting Sponsor Genentech and County Supervisor Jim Desmond, is proud to announce the USA 250 Festival, a community celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre in Oceanside.
The festival will immediately follow the annual MainStreet Oceanside Independence Parade, creating a full day of patriotic festivities in downtown Oceanside. Residents and visitors are encouraged to begin their day at the parade and continue the celebration at the USA 250 Festival.
The family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, more than 125 exhibitors, vendors, and community organizations, interactive activities, and a dedicated Fun Zone for children and families. Country music artist Craig Campbell will headline the festival. Campbell is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, has appeared on NBC’s Today Show, performed on USO holiday tours, and has produced multiple charting singles and studio albums throughout his career.
In keeping with the spirit of a classic American community celebration, the festival will feature a variety of Americana-themed activities and competitions. Attendees can cheer on local first responders during a Police vs. Fire Chili Cookoff, watch young competitors race in the Kids Grand Prix, and participate in a traditional Pie Eating Contest. More than 125 community exhibits, local arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and family activities will help create an engaging experience for attendees of all ages.
The festival’s lead sponsor, Genentech, is also celebrating a significant milestone in 2026, marking its 50th anniversary. For five decades, Genentech has been a pioneer in biotechnology innovation, helping transform the treatment of serious and life-threatening diseases while making meaningful investments in the communities where its employees live and work.
“The 250th anniversary of our nation is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate the ideals, freedoms, and opportunities that have shaped our country,” said Scott Ashton, CEO of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce. “We are grateful to Genentech for serving as our Presenting Sponsor during their 50th anniversary year and helping us create an event that brings together residents, businesses, military families, and visitors in celebration of both our nation’s history and our community’s future.”
Supervisor Jim Desmond has partnered with the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce to bring the USA 250 Festival to Oceanside as part of a broader effort to recognize the nation’s 250th and encourage community participation in this historic milestone.
“America turns 250 once. We get to celebrate it right here in Oceanside, with our families, our first responders, and our neighbors,” said Supervisor Jim Desmond. “This is going to be a great day. Come for the parade, stay for the festival, and let’s show what North County pride looks like. I could not be more excited to be part of it.”
The event is expected to attract thousands of attendees from throughout North County and beyond. In addition to entertainment and activities, the festival will provide opportunities for local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to engage directly with attendees through exhibits and sponsorships.
Other major festival sponsors include Liberty Military Housing, T-Mobile and The Rincon Tribe. Additional event details, sponsorship opportunities, and exhibitor information are available at www.OceansideUSA250Festival.com.
About the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1896, the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 130 years of serving the business community and advocating for a thriving and united Oceanside. The Chamber represents more than 600 member businesses employing over 20,000 people and works to provide advocacy and resources that help businesses and the community thrive.
