AUGUSTA, Ga () – Fort Gordon is holding their annual Independence Celebration Thursday night and hundreds are expected to be there.

Hundreds decked out in their red, white and blue excited to celebrate America’s independence.

There were dozens of sponsored tents for people to walk around and enjoy like golf, 7 Brew, and Dominoes.

An official with MWR says hundreds look forward to this event every year.

“Family friends, church friends, everyone is asking, so it’s not just me, but our entire community comes together to have a wonderful time, and that’s what we look forward to. This occasion is really about connecting with loved ones, finding someone to share memories with, and those memories truly last forever,” expressed Larry Coggins, the Chief of the Recreation Division at MWR.

There were also carnival rides, live music and an open field for you and your family to enjoy.

While the base is celebrating America’s 249th birthday, they are also celebrating the Army’s 250th birthday.

I spoke with a first time attendee who says he looks forward to 4th of July every year and loves to dress up.

“We’re in America, the greatest country on earth, so you have to appreciate the patriotism, and yes, I love it. The rugged American spirit, I noticed it while we were on vacation in Panama; I saw it and thought ‘let me pick that up’—I love the whole vibe,” Doug Martin commented.

I spoke with one local who never misses the celebration and served 30 years in the Army.

“I’m a retiree and disabled veteran, I just wanted to come out and support Fort Gordon,” Patricia Garth said.

The night ended with the anticipated fireoworks show.

If you missed the celebration this year, it will be held again next year.