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6/17/2026
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (WMATA) will participate in upcoming observations of the 250th anniversary of the United States with a special exhibition honoring the authority’s own 50th anniversary and its connection to the nation’s history. The Washington, D.C.-area transit agency will also mark the anniversary with patriotic vehicle wraps and a limited-edition Smart Trip card design.
The special exhibition, “America’s Metro System” will be part of the Great American State Fair, a 15-day event to be held on the National Mall beginning June 25. The State Fair will stage exhibitions, entertainment and cultural programming representing all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories.
WMATA’s exhibit will include the authority's first, 1976-era rail car alongside a preview of the new 8000-series rail car, due to begin field testing in late 2027, as well as archival photographs and artifacts, interactive displays, educational activities, multimedia experiences and exhibits about the future of transportation and mobility.
“For 50 years, Metro has connected people across the region to jobs, schools, healthcare, culture, and opportunity,” said WMATA General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “This exhibition celebrates the people, partnerships, and progress that helped shape Metro’s first five decades while highlighting the important role public transportation continues to play in the future of our region and country.”