CAFB hosts Freedom Fest 2026, celebrating America’s 250th
COLUMBUS, Miss., (WCBI) — Thousands came out to help Columbus Air Force Base celebrate America’s 250th Birthday in a big way.
Land of the free, home of the brave! A large crowd was on hand to celebrate America’s 250th birthday at Columbus Air Force Base.
The Fourth of July celebration, usually held at the Columbus Lock and Dam, changed locations this year to the Air Force Base, giving many who may have never been to the base a chance to experience it.
Colonel Jason Long, Missions Control Command, says what better day to celebrate, open the gates and welcome the public to the base.
“It’s the 250th! What a great time to open up the gates. it’s a once in a lifetime, once in a generation celebration 250 is a big deal. We’ve opened the gates to our communities and those who love aviation and are patriotic, and we’re happy to have them on the installation.”
The event kicked off at 2 p.m. and there were live performances, stilt walkers, and an array of vendors, food trucks and a beer and soda garden.
There were even ways to beat the heat, with water stations and many offering free water and sports drinks to stay hydrated.
Long says the event is a great way to welcome people to the region and any chance they get to collaborate with the City of Columbus and Lowndes County, they want to take it.
“Any opportunity to partner with our great community and show off aviation and the Columbus Air Force base and this region is an opportunity,”
The night ended with a huge firework show enjoyed by all who were in attendance. What a better way to say Happy 250th Birthday America.
Long says that he hopes that Freedom Fest continues and people come out and experience the base.
