WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pennsylvania’s privately funded pavilion earned a Best in Show honor Friday at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, giving the Commonwealth national recognition during the country’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The award followed a bipartisan effort led by U.S. Sens. Dave McCormick and John Fetterman to secure Pennsylvania’s participation in the event. The pavilion was financed through partnerships with 55 businesses, trade groups and other organizations without taxpayer funding.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association and Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association helped organize the exhibit alongside more than 50 additional partners.
The pavilion presented Pennsylvania’s role in American history, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the winter encampment at Valley Forge, the Battle of Gettysburg and the Commonwealth’s wartime manufacturing legacy.
Exhibits also featured Pennsylvania agriculture, manufacturing, energy, innovation, small businesses and recognizable companies and products, linking the state’s historic contributions with industries supporting its current economy.
“Pennsylvania’s story is America’s story, and this recognition is a tribute to everyone who helped bring that story to life,” McCormick stated. “From Independence Hall and Valley Forge to our farms, factories, and innovators, the Commonwealth has shaped our nation for 250 years.”
Fetterman credited the residents, workers and businesses represented in the pavilion for securing the honor.
“What makes Pennsylvania truly awesome are the men, women, and children who call it home,” Fetterman stated. “Our farmers, steelworkers, small business owners, and so many more.”
Freedom 250 recognized multiple state exhibits during the fair’s closing ceremony. Pennsylvania received one of the event’s Best in Show designations, placing its exhibit among the fair’s highest-rated state pavilions.
Representatives from McCormick’s office accepted the award Friday afternoon during a ceremony on the Freedom Stage.
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