Music, military tradition and one of the largest fireworks displays in the region will once again come together when Fort Bragg hosts its annual Red, White and Boom Fest! celebration Saturday, June 27, at the Main Post Parade Field.

The free event, presented by Fort Bragg Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, opens at 3 p.m. and culminates with a fireworks spectacular after an evening lineup featuring national recording artists Hoobastank, The Fray and country favorite Niko Moon. Admission is free and open to the public. This year’s celebration carries added significance as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, giving organizers an opportunity to blend patriotic traditions with family entertainment and community fellowship.

“We have several special and exciting things planned in honor of our nation’s 250th birthday,” said Amanda Cahill, Fort Bragg MWR special events coordinator. “We encourage everyone to come out and participate in this historic occasion. We’re very excited.”

For generations, Red, White and Boom has served as more than a summer concert. The event has become an annual gathering that brings together soldiers, veterans, military families and civilians from throughout the Sandhills region. Cahill said that sense of unity remains at the heart of the celebration.

“The most meaningful aspect is that this event provides a visual reminder of the bond between the military and the community it serves,” she said. “It’s a celebration of freedom, service and the shared values that unite soldiers, families and civilians across the Fort Bragg region.”

The festivities begin long before the headline acts take the stage. A traditional flag ceremony remains one of the evening’s signature moments. The ceremony includes a cannon salute representing all 50 states and U.S. territories, along with the colors of Fort Bragg’s major commands, subordinate units, the United States Army and the American flag itself.

“It really honors our nation and those who serve,” Cahill said.

Families will also find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained. Kiddieland returns with inflatable attractions and bounce houses, while sponsor booths, vendors and military static displays provide activities throughout the afternoon and evening. Another highlight making its debut this year is a special parachute demonstration by an all-veteran freefall team comprised of former members of the Army Golden Knights and Black Daggers.

“We’re excited for that,” Cahill said. “That will be something special this year.”

Of course, many attendees will come for the music.

Alternative rock veterans Hoobastank and The Fray bring decades of chart-topping hits to the stage, while country artist Niko Moon adds his feel-good brand of Southern-inspired music to the lineup. Together, the performers promise a soundtrack that spans generations and musical tastes. But behind the concerts, fireworks and pageantry lies months of planning and coordination.

“It takes a multitude of support,” Cahill said. “We could not do this without our garrison directorates and the soldier units that come out and support. Because of the size and scope of the event, it truly takes everyone working together.”

She also credited longtime production partner Dougie Company, which has helped bring the event to life for multiple years. The celebration’s success extends beyond Fort Bragg’s gates.

As one of the largest public events in the area, Red, White and Boom continues to strengthen relationships between the installation and surrounding communities, creating a shared experience that transcends uniforms and titles.

“This is an event for Fort Bragg and the surrounding community to celebrate the independence of our nation,” Cahill said. “It strengthens that bond between the military and the community by bringing together soldiers, families, veterans and civilians to celebrate together.”

The event also depends on the support of numerous community sponsors. While federal guidelines prevent official endorsements, Cahill expressed appreciation for the many businesses and organizations whose support helps make the celebration possible.

For attendees, however, the experience ultimately comes down to creating memories. Cahill hopes families leave with a renewed appreciation for the country and the historic milestone being commemorated.

“Just enjoy the celebration,” she said. “Especially this year, with the historic 250th birthday. Come out, celebrate the country and see what we have to offer.”

Visitors are encouraged to review the event website at https://bragg.armymwr.com/calendar/event/107836 before arriving to familiarize themselves with prohibited items and security requirements.

Parking for the event will be available primarily at Womack Army Medical Center. Guests who do not possess Department of Defense identification cards must obtain an installation access pass in advance. Registration information and additional details are available through the Fort Bragg MWR website.

As the sun sets over the Main Post Parade Field and thousands gather beneath the summer sky, Red, White and Boom promises to deliver more than a night of music and fireworks.

In a year when the nation pauses to celebrate 250 years of independence, the event offers something increasingly rare, an opportunity for military and civilian communities to stand side by side, celebrate together and be reminded that some traditions are still worth gathering for.

Red, White and Boom begins at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at the Main Post Parade Field on Fort Bragg. Admission is free.

(Photo: The 82nd Airborne Division Chorus performs during 2025's Red, White & Boom Fest at Fort Bragg.)