Freedom Fest 2026 at Columbus Air Force Base marks a historic milestone: 250 years of freedom, service, and community. This signature Fourth of July celebration is open to the public, as we proudly welcome the surrounding community for live music, aviation heritage, family experiences, and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Admission is FREE and open to the public. Gates open at 2 PM. Fireworks start at 9 PM.
Before You Arrive
To help make your visit as smooth as possible:
- Bring a valid photo ID for everyone 18 and older.
- Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
- Stay hydrated by bringing an empty reusable water bottle or a sealed plastic water bottle.
- Review the list of permitted and prohibited items before arriving.
- Follow event parking signs and traffic personnel when entering the installation.
Enjoy Live Entertainment
The stage will feature live performances throughout the day from the main stage located near the center of the Open House grounds:
- Seeking 7– Known for their dynamic stage presence and crowd-engaging performances, the band delivers a powerful mix of classic rock favorites and original music.
- Colin Stough – Known for his distinctive blend of Southern rock, country soul, and authentic storytelling on stage. Sough is influenced by legends like The Allman Brothers, Conway Twitty, and Koe Wetzel.
- Cody Riddle Band – Known for their driving rhythms, red dirt rock and roll, and classic country grit on the Freedom Fest stage.
Seeking Seven, Colin Stough, and The Cody Riddle Band will keep the energy high all day long, building excitement as we count down to fireworks!
Explore Military Aircraft
Get an up-close look at the military aircraft that fly over Columbus daily and learn about the mission of Columbus Air Force Base. Meet the next generation of military pilots and discover the important role CAFB plays in our nation’s defense.
Witness History
Be part of a once-in-a-generation moment as we open a 50-year-old time capsule, giving visitors a glimpse into the past while celebrating America’s 250th birthday. This time capsule was buried in 1976!
Visit the Freedom 250 Museum on Wheels
Step inside the Freedom 250 Mobile Museum for an immersive experience that brings America’s history to life. The museum will be open from 2 PM to 10 PM. This special exhibit showcases artifacts, stories, and displays highlighting key moments from the nation’s founding to today, sent straight from Washington, DC! Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, learn about the evolution of American freedom, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements that shaped the country over the past 250 years. The museum is a must-see stop for anyone wanting to connect with the meaning behind the celebration.
Free Kids Activities for All Ages
The FREE Kids Zone is packed with activities for children of all ages, including:
- Bounce houses and Inflatables
- Face painting
- Stilt Walkers
- Reptile Zoo
- Interactive games and much more!
Families can easily spend hours exploring everything the Kids Zone has to offer.
Shop Local Artisans
Browse the Freedom Fest Craft Market featuring talented local artisans, handmade products, unique gifts, and specialty vendors. An entire street is blocked off for unique shopping for souvenirs, thoughtful gifts, and exploring the creativity of local makers.
Grab Something to Eat
Come hungry! A wide variety of food vendors will be on site serving up delicious options for every taste, including:
- Tampico Bay
- Big Daddy’s Snack Machine
- Ivy and Tusks
- Trippy Reds
- 44 Take Out
- MJB Ice LLC
- Cotton Candy By Caleb
- Bayou Billy Sweet Tea
- Kalypsp’s
- Snobabies
- Snowie Cool Treats
- Free Spirit Crunch
- N&N Lunchbox
- Sips and Spill Teas
- Southern Coffee
- 14 FTW 5/6 Private Org
- Mita’s Himalayan
- LemHAEnade & Eats
- Ford Roadside Smash Lemonade
- T T Sweets
From barbecue and burgers to tacos, frozen treats, and classic festival favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Make Memories
Take photos with military aircraft, patriotic displays, the Freedom 250 exhibit, and around the grounds. There will be plenty of opportunities to capture memories with family and friends.
Stay for the Biggest Fireworks Show in the Region
As the sun sets, the celebration ends with an unforgettable fireworks display sponsored by Visit Columbus. It’s the perfect finale to an incredible day celebrating 250 years of America!
We can’t wait to welcome the community to Columbus Air Force Base for Freedom Fest 2026. Gather your family, invite your friends, and celebrate America’s 250th birthday with live music, family fun, military heritage, and an unforgettable fireworks show!
To view more information on Freedom Fest, check out our Freedom Fest page!
Other Fun Events Happening for the 4th
Fireworks 150 | Magnolia Motor Speedway
JULY 2 | 7:30 PM
Enjoy family fun and the fastest speed race cars in the air and on the track, with a big firework display to kick off the 250 celebration
21 MINUTES FROM CAFB
495 US-45, Columbus, MS 39701
Caledonia Main Street Market | Caledonia, MS
JULY 3 | 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Bring the whole family to Caledonia Main Street for a day of fun with over 40 vendors, FREE kids’ activities, local food trucks, the Caledonia Cruise-In, a blood drive, and plenty more to enjoy.
Firework Show
JULY 3 | 9:00 PM
Annual 4th of July Parade
JULY 4 | 10:00 AM
Decorate your rides, bikes, tractors, SXS, boats, 4-wheelers, or walk in red, white, and blue. The line-up starts at 9 AM at the Church of Christ parking lot.
17 MINUTES FROM CAFB
Main St, Caledonia, MS 39740