NC Labor Commissioner Promotes 'First in Freedom' Parade for America's 250th

The parade is part of celebrations honoring the nation's founding and North Carolina's role in the fight for independence.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:09pm

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A cinematic painting of an American flag waving in the warm sunlight of a small-town main street, with deep shadows cast across the sidewalk and storefronts, conceptually representing the patriotic spirit of a community parade.The upcoming First in Freedom Parade will celebrate North Carolina's revolutionary legacy and the nation's 250th anniversary with patriotic fervor.Today in Raleigh

North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley is encouraging residents to save the date for the First in Freedom Parade, which is part of America's 250th celebration. The event, organized by the Celebrate America Foundation, will honor the nation's founding and North Carolina's role in the fight for independence. It will be held in downtown Raleigh, starting at 9:30 a.m. on an unspecified date.

Why it matters

As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, events like the First in Freedom Parade aim to highlight the historical significance of North Carolina's role in the American Revolution and the state's continued pride in its revolutionary heritage.

The details

In a Facebook post, Farley announced details about the upcoming First in Freedom Parade, which will take place in downtown Raleigh. The parade is being organized by the Celebrate America Foundation as part of the broader celebrations for America's 250th birthday.

  • The parade will be held in downtown Raleigh, starting at 9:30 a.m. on an unspecified date.

The players

Luke Farley

The North Carolina Labor Commissioner who is promoting the First in Freedom Parade.

Celebrate America Foundation

The organization that is hosting and coordinating the First in Freedom Parade as part of America's 250th anniversary celebrations.

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What they’re saying

“Save the date for the First in Freedom Parade, which is part of America's 250th celebration.”

— Luke Farley, North Carolina Labor Commissioner

What’s next

More details about the specific date, parade route, and schedule of events for the First in Freedom Parade are expected to be announced soon by the Celebrate America Foundation.

The takeaway

As North Carolina prepares to commemorate its pivotal role in the American Revolution, the First in Freedom Parade will serve as a high-profile celebration of the state's revolutionary heritage and its continued pride in being 'First in Freedom'.