Post celebration promises area's largest fireworks show

By TIFFANY NABORS/ Fort Benning Public Affairs OfficeJune 25, 2010

Fort Benning will host its annual Fourth of July celebration July 3 at Stewart-Watson Field beginning at 4 p.m.

The event will feature free rides, games and more than 30 inflatables for kids. Still, Fort

Benning special events coordinator Cliff Hughes said there will be fun for participants of all ages.

"We really paid attention to our comment cards this year," he said. "People have said we didn't offer enough variety with performers, so there will be a good mix."

Hughes said the organizers opted for local bands who should be easily recognizable. The list includes blues and rock guitarist Neal Lucas; acoustic and indie rock band Pipers Down; jazz, blues and gospel singer Peggy Jenkins; and country rock band Whisky Bent.

The Silver Wings parachute team will also perform a demonstration, and the celebration will conclude with a large fireworks show that will begin around 10 p.m. Hughes said the show will be the best in the tricommunity.

"Our sponsors donated nearly $30,000 for this year's event," Hughes said. "We definitely couldn't put this event on without them."

Those who come can expect to only pay for food and some of the privately run rides.

Stewart-Watson Field is located on Eckel Avenue beside Smith Fitness Center and across from Building 4.

The event is open to the public. For more information, call 706-545-7978.

Other events:

Thunder on the Hooch, July 4, beginning at 5 p.m., free; presented by Columbus and Phenix City; features crafts, games, contests and a new "Do the Dew Obstacle Course"; food and drinks for sale; event closes with fireworks display just after dark.

1850s-style celebration in Westville, Ga., July 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, military and college students, $5 for school-age kids; features food, races, contests and a bluegrass band.

Callaway Gardens' Star Spangled Beach Party, July 4, beginning at 9 a.m.; features Florida State University Flying High Circus and closing fireworks; visit www.callawaygardens.com.