A lot is changing these days in Washington, D.C., with even more on the horizon: 10 city blocks of the National Mall will soon transform into a multi-week state fair spectacle, complete with a Ferris wheel, in honor of the country's 250th birthday.The "Great American State Fair" will run from June 25 through July 10, promising to bring state-themed pavilions, movie screenings, musical performances, military flyovers, nostalgic snacks, a daily rodeo — and potentially scores of tourists — to the nation's capital.It will feature more than 150 exhibits, with full participation across the United States and several U.S.territories, as well as "businesses, innovators and civic organizations," according to Freedom250, the White House-backed campaign that is organizing the fair in addition to other semiquincentennial events."A master-planned celebration will unfold along the National Mall from the Capitol to the Washington Monument, featuring vibrant pavilions representing every U.S.
state and territory," says the White House website, adding that the beaux-arts style tents will also highlight national themes like agriculture, the arts, faith and family.However, not all states are sending official government delegations to the fair.Officials in more than half a dozen states — including Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island and Washington — confirmed to NPR that they are not participating directly.
Most cited financial considerations and a desire to prioritize celebrations in their own communities, though others voiced political concerns.Rachel Reisner, a spokesperson for Freedom250, emphasized in an email that there is "a vast majority participating" among the states.Additionally, others are being represented by local businesses and organizations -- such as two companies from North Carolina and a museum from Illinois."Whether represented by a governor's office, a tourism board, or a beloved state company or organi...