The Centro Cultural Paraguayo Americano (CCPA), with support from the Embassy of the United States in Paraguay, will host Feel USA – Freedom 250, a cultural festival marking the 250th anniversary of the United States’ Independence. The event will take place on Saturday, 18 July 2026, from 16:00 at the Centro Cultural del Puerto de Asunción. The gathering features activities related to music, history, gastronomy, technology, and education. Admission will be free.
Fabrizio Zucchini, one of the CCPA representatives, explains that the celebration expects to bring this tradition closer to Paraguayan audiences. “This experience is planned so that the Paraguayan public can also live an experience similar to what happens in the United States on the 4th of July, during an Independence celebration,” he tells The Asunción Times.
Bridge between Paraguay and the United States
Feel USA – Freedom 250 creates a space where communities can celebrate their historical relationship through different cultures. The event combines entertainment and educational activities for visitors to discover aspects of American culture and recognise connections between both countries.
Suemayah Abu-Douleh, Director of Press, Culture, and Education at the US Embassy in Paraguay, emphasises the importance of sharing this celebration with Paraguayan audiences. “This festival is not only American. It is a celebration shared with the Paraguayan people, with whom we have historical bonds of friendship, cooperation, and common values.”
During the festival, visitors can explore interactive exhibitions about the history of the United States. Additionally, enjoy traditional food, and experience live performances featuring genres such as jazz, rock, and hip hop. Moreover, participants can access information about scholarships, academic exchanges, and professional development programmes.
Celebrating innovation, education, and cultural heritage
The festival also focuses on the ideas and contributions that have influenced societies around the world. Carson Villalba, Executive Director of the CCPA, explains that the organisation wants visitors to recognise the connections between American history and everyday life.
“We want to transmit what really connects us every day with this legacy of the United States because many times we do not have it present,” Villalba says. He explains that democracy, technology, science, environmental protection, art, and education represent important elements that continue influencing communities internationally.
According to Villalba, innovations such as the internet, artificial intelligence, and scientific research demonstrate how technological development continues shaping the future. Furthermore, he showcases the importance of education and the role of American universities in creating opportunities for Paraguayan students.
An experience for the whole family
The festival offers activities designed for children, young people, and adults, creating an inclusive environment for visitors of all ages. From interactive science and technology workshops to cultural performances and gastronomic experiences, each area encourages participants to explore different aspects of American culture. The programme also includes performances by the CCPA Jazz Quintet, the National Police Musicians’ Band, the Vocal Group Cantarte, break dance artists from Breaking Deportivo Paraguay, and rock group The Kilks.
The event will introduce a passport system that guides visitors through the different stations. As attendees complete each activity, they collect stamps that allow them to participate in special prize draws, including opportunities connected to travel and cultural exchange.
A night of music and celebration
Feel USA – Freedom 250 will close the night with fireworks over the Paraguay River at 20:00. The festival will recreate one of the most recognised traditions of Independence Day celebrations in the United States. Organisers expect thousands of people to attend, building on previous editions that welcomed around 3,000 visitors.
Through this festival, the CCPA and the Embassy of the United States invite everyone to celebrate freedom and cultural exchange. Feel USA – Freedom 250 aims for a meeting point where history and innovation come together, strengthening the connection between Paraguay and the United States through a shared celebration.
Looking for more activities to do in Asunción? Check out the things to do section of The Asunción Times.
