Jefferson Starship and ASIA to Headline Free Declaration 250 Concerts at Put-in-Bay

Published: Jul 21, 2026 - 10:22 a.m.

By Peter Lewis

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PUT-IN-BAY, Ohio — The familiar sounds of South Bass Island will set the stage for a massive historical commemoration this summer at Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. While the event draws national rock legends, the music begins with Bob Gatewood and Calabash, a local staple whose songs have served as the island's unofficial soundtrack for decades. Gatewood's band will open the free concert series before ASIA and Jefferson Starship take the stage. It is a hometown start for a national event. The celebration, known as Declaration 250, focuses on a specific historical distinction: the commemoration of Aug. 2, 1776. While July 4 marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, historians note that many members of the Continental Congress did not actually sign the document until nearly a month later. The Lake Erie Heritage Foundation organized the three-day event to highlight this date and bring visitors to the 352-foot Doric column that defines the island's skyline. "Declaration 250 is about celebrating America, but it's also about celebrating the communities that have preserved our history for generations," said David Zavagno, president of the Lake Erie Heritage Foundation. According to Zavagno, the foundation wanted visitors to experience the authentic sound of Put-in-Bay before the national headliners begin their sets. The musical lineup starts Friday, July 31, at 7 p.m. with ASIA featuring John Payne. On Saturday, Aug. 1, Jefferson Starship is scheduled to perform at 7 p.m. following an opening set by Gatewood. The series concludes Sunday, Aug. 2, with a 7 p.m. performance by Lee Greenwood, known for his patriotic anthem "God Bless the U.S.A." Between the concerts, the memorial grounds will host "Freedom Village," a space featuring Revolutionary War living-history encampments and maritime heritage programs. The Ohio State University Marching Band ceremonial ensemble and the Bowling Green State University Falcon Marching Band are also scheduled to appear alongside the United States Navy Band. According to the event itinerary, visitors can participate in a ceremonial signing of the Declaration of Independence, which organizers are calling America's National Signing Ceremony. Military presence will be a significant part of the weekend, including the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and the Bristol County Fifes and Drums. A military flyover is planned to coincide with the patriotic presentations. The weekend concludes with the ROCKET 250 fireworks spectacular over the waters of Lake Erie. The Lake Erie Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is hosting the event as part of the broader America 250 initiative. All concerts and historical displays at the memorial are free to the public. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.