The United States of America is gearing up to celebrate its 250th birthday, and Schuylkill County is inviting everyone to revel close to home.

The local America250 celebration, held in Pottsville, the county seat, this weekend relies on a Schuylkill tradition: volunteers.

“A lot of our people and our businesses donated a lot of money for this,” said county Commissioners Chairman Larry L. Padora Jr. “We’ve got a lot of participation from our veterans organizations, and our fire companies throughout the county are participating. “

He said over $40,000 was raised for the celebration.

“It’s a really nice thing for the county,” he said.

The birthday bash gets underway with a fireworks display on Friday evening.

The festivities will hit their peak on Saturday with a parade, fireworks, fun foods, live music and an abundance of patriotic spirit.

The parade, featuring the county’s selfless volunteer fire companies, talented high school bands and other organizations, kicks off at 11 a.m. at 18th and Market streets, travels to Second Street, turns onto Mahantongo Street, and then culminates at the judges’ stand at Centre Street.

Parking is banned along the parade route from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

From 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., historical reenactments, activities, contests, food, live music and entertainment will be offered in the parking lot of Alvernia University along Progress Avenue.