Columbus wants to say thanks.
Community members will have the chance at Boots on Broadway from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday on Broadway.
"It's just an opportunity for us to say thank you," said Richard Bishop, president of UPtown Columbus and the Business Improvement District. "Fort Benning and the military do so much for this community, the country and the world ... first and foremost, protecting us. They lay it on the line every day."
Designed as an annual event, the "Military Heritage Celebration" will feature activities for the whole family.
There'll be live music, a boxing ring, baseball throwing, karaoke, a kissing booth and Wii games, just to name a few, Bishop said.
Bishop said the outdoor event, to be held in the 900 and 1000 blocks of Broadway in uptown Columbus, will let the community show their appreciation for Soldiers, veterans and military families.
"It's military appreciation day," he said. "It's for the entire community, but we're really (encouraging) military and their families to come down."
Local businesses have donated several items for giveaways to service members, including a three-day stay in Panama City, Fla., a free wedding ceremony, several gift certificates and the choice of trips to Orlando, Fla., Nashville, Tenn., or St. Augustine, Fla.
Kids can enjoy free inflatables, face painting, clowns and crafts. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants along Broadway or stop in for some shopping at a local store, many which give military discounts. Everything should be open Saturday for the event, Bishop said.
Several organizations, including Columbus State University, PAWS and UPtown Columbus, will have exhibits on display where people can learn more about them and maybe pick up some freebies.
Musicians will play throughout the day in a variety of musical styles. The spotlight entertainer will be Scott Kirby, a guitarist similar in style to Jimmy Buffet, Bishop said.
If you want to sell a craft, food or other item, or if you want to provide an activity during the festival, visit www.bootsonbroadway.com and download an application.
For more information about Boots on Broadway, call Bishop at 706-596-0111.
Boots1: Columbus State University students in the Phi Mu Sorority offer free back rubs for Soldiers last year during God Bless Fort Benning Day. Sorority members will make an appearance again this year at the new Boots on Broadway Saturday in uptown Columbus. They will offer massages and a kissing booth for military visiting Broadway for the free community event. CSU and several other community organizations will have booths set up on the 900 and 1000 blocks of Broadway to provide information to the public and freebies for Soldiers, veterans and families.
Boots2: Basic trainees from Sand Hill sing Ain't No Sunshine by Bill Withers at a karaoke booth during God Bless Fort Benning Day Nov. 22. Karaoke will be available this year at Boots on Broadway for Soldiers and civilians.
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