Even though I moved to the US in 2013, I’ve never actually been to a 4th of July event. I haven’t deliberately avoided them, it’s just that each year I’ve either been working or traveling and missed the whole experience. Is that grounds for being arrested for treason? Who knows, but if it helps my case, it all changed this year. I’m sharing this post on what it was like to spend 4th of July at Fort Bragg because as we know, no one America’s harder than a bogan Aussie immigrant. Oh yeah, and also because if you move here in the future (btw hi – what’s the future like?) and you’re debating whether drive your flying car to attend this event or not (do they still have events in the future or are they all on Zoom?) at least with this you’ll have an idea of what to expect.
Spending 4th Of July At Fort Bragg (My First 4th Of July Event)
Planning info
When it comes to planning your day, all the information you need is on the MWR website for the event. They had information for the prohibited items, itinerary, parking, and general tips for the day which was all super helpful. There was also a map to show which streets would be blocked off which was good to know in advance.
Everything was explained so clearly that it was easy for a first timer to figure out how to get there and what to bring.
If you read all their info and still can’t figure out what to bring or where to park, then you’re probably a couple of French fries short of a happy meal.
I’d recommend following the Fort Bragg Facebook page and staying up to date with the current info before you go.
The only thing I’d mention is that it’s pretty bloody hot during the day. I went early to experience as much as possible but if you get grumpy in the heat, maybe plan to arrive in the evening.
Also, in terms of facilities there were heaps of port-a-loos and hand washing stations outside them. It wasn’t like some music festivals I’ve been to where they anticipate a huge crowd and somehow decide 5 toilets is enough. This event was actually well prepared!
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The food
There was a selection of food trucks at the event serving up some awesome state fair type food.
Some of the foods that were there this year were things like corn dogs, ice cream, cheesesteaks, BBQ, shave ice, funnel cake, burgers, and deep fried just about everything.
If you’ve ever eaten an Oreo and thought “you know what, this is OK but it’d be better dipped in hot oil”, then you’re in the right place for food.
There were all sorts of drinks available as well from basic water and soda, to smoothies, slushies, and a few basic alcoholic drinks.
If you have a water bottle, there were big water containers that you could use to refill. Just look for big green tank looking things with ‘potable water’ on them.
Entertainment
One thing is for sure, there’s plenty of entertainment spread throughout the day. If you arrive early to claim a good spot, you won’t be bored while you wait for the fireworks.
I enjoyed seeing the big guns they had on display and learning about what goes into operating them. It also made for a cool photo-op.
They also had a cool parachute demonstration. If you want to be up close for the landings, just look for a marked off area in the middle of the field. That is where they landed and there was a flag ceremony there after the parachutes packed up too.
I had no idea what a flag ceremony was, so just in case I’m not the only one here’s what happened. They called out the state and it’s slogan one by one as someone walked onto the field with the flag for that state. As they did that one of the big guns went ka-boom in the background.
After all the flags were done they played the anthem.
America. F**k yeah.
The concert
After all the demonstrations are done there’s enough time to get more snacks (is there ever enough snacks?) and get ready for the main concert.
Earlier in the day the 82nd All American Rock Band were rocking out and they were pretty awesome, then the evening show is the main concert.
This year they had The Fifth open and Foreigner headline. Foreigner understood the assignment and had the big crowd full of families rocking out to their classics.
There were moments of the crowd singing “I wanna know what love is” in unison with lighters in the air as well as spontaneous “USA!” chanting. Actually, it was my first ever spontaneous USA chant and it was just as cool as I thought it’d be.
It amped up the energy perfectly and set the stage for the grand finale.
Fireworks
Finally, the night ended with a huge fireworks show. Not a couple of flimsy fireworks. This was the real deal.
Super loud, super colorful, and went on for a good amount of time.
I feel like fireworks awaken the kid in all of us and they had everyone going ‘woah’. When I looked around the crowd people were staring up at them with wide eyes, getting their kiss pics with the fireworks in the background, and jamming along to the music.
The only downside I would say is that the music could’ve been better and also timed better since the music ended while the fireworks were still going. It would’ve been cool to finish it out with a real banger Americana song!
Other than that it was an epic fireworks show.
And more USA chants went off with the fireworks.
Overall
Basically, it was the best 4th of July since 1776.
I’m super grateful for the experience and to all the staff, vendors, and performers who made it possible. Can’t wait to do it all again next year!
Fill your Fort Bragg chapter with adventures
You might only be living in North Carolina for a short time, but let’s make it a good time.
Check out my Ultimate Fort Bragg Bucket List for a huge list of day trips, long weekend ideas, and unique events.
Basically, it’s everything you need to make filling your weekends simple and stress free!
Other posts you might enjoy:
Glamping In North Carolina – Here’s How To Plan Your Off The Grid Adventure
Here’s Why You Gotta Visit The World’s Largest Strawberry Building In NC
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