COLUMBIA – Missouri Statehood Day, Aug. 10, marks a milestone of 200 years since the Missouri Territory became the 24th state to enter the Union.

More than 200 bicentennial events are taking place this year, statewide.

Jefferson City will host several days of bicentennial festivities open to the public Sunday, Aug. 8; and Tuesday, Aug. 10, at the state Capitol. These events include a Gold Star Memorial dedication, the dedication of the Bicentennial Bridge, a Statehood Day ceremony in conjunction with a U.S. Naturalization ceremony and an ice cream social.

The Missouri Bicentennial Commission is planning the state Capitol events, including an invitation to communities to celebrate Missouri’s birthday with an ice cream social.

In Excelsior Springs, museum operations director Kathy Duncan said the community group is deciding whether to hold an ice cream social during statehood week in connection with a possible community art show Aug. 13.

The Missouri bicentennial is the theme for the Missouri State Fair, Aug. 12-22 in Sedalia. The Missouri Celebration will include bicentennial events and exhibits, livestock shows, competitive exhibits, entertainment, motor sports and other regular state fair offerings.