Dugway Proving Ground celebrates Independence Day with annual Dugway Day event

By Kyle HetrickJune 30, 2025

Fireworks explode over the Dugway parade field, lighting up the night sky.
Fireworks explode over the Dugway parade field, lighting up the night sky. (Photo Credit: CSM Jessica Cho) VIEW ORIGINAL

DUGWAY PROVING GROUND, Utah — Dugway Proving Ground welcomed community members and visitors on June 26 for Dugway Day, an annual celebration of Independence Day featuring family-friendly activities, live music, and local engagement.

Organized by the Dugway Proving Ground Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) team, the event was open to the public and drew attendees from the installation and surrounding communities.

Entertainment included a live performance by the Utah National Guard’s Article 15 band, a petting zoo, bouncy houses, face painting, and outdoor games such as pickleball, cornhole, and horseshoes. Attendees also had access to the installation pool and waterslide, and a variety of food options were available for purchase.

A fireworks show lit up the Dugway night sky, serving as the final event for the daylong celebration.

“There is just something about a small community tied together by purpose that you can't help but fall in love with,” said Col. James Harwell, commander of Dugway Proving Ground.

“This is proof that Dugway is a great place to work, live, and play,” added Garrison Manager Christopher Damour.

One attendee who traveled from Saratoga Springs with his family noted, “This will be four years in a row that we've come out.”

Dugway Day is an annual tradition, serving as the installation’s celebration of the Fourth of July and offering a chance for the public to experience the unique culture and camaraderie of the Dugway community.