Columbus on a Budget: Star-spangled edition. Celebrate July 4th & America 250 for under $25

As the country is gearing up for America’s 250th anniversary and the Fourth of July holiday, local folks might be looking for things to do to celebrate. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a ton of money to participate and have a fun, patriotic time.

For this installment of “Columbus On A Budget” we’re showing you guys how to be as patriotic as you want to be for $25.

With a little research and resourcefulness, you can celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial and not break the bank.

Fort Benning’s Freedom 250 Independence Celebration

Fort Benning’s Freedom 250 Independence Celebration is free and open to the public, and this year it’s headlined by two multiplatinum acts.

When and where:

• June 27
• 4 PM to 10 PM
• York Field on Eckel Avenue, in front of McGinnis-Wickam Hall (Building 4)

What to do:

• Concert headliners Gavin DeGraw and Plain White T’s, with DJ Black Rhino Sound opening
• Kids’ Zone with 34-foot jump towers and children’s activities
• Static military displays and demonstrations marking 250 years of independence
• Food vendors on-site
• Fireworks show choreographed by the Maneuver Center of Excellence Band

What to know:

• Gate access procedures are yet to be announced, so check before you go
• Gates open around 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Traffic will be heavily congested
• Food vendors on-site
• Outside food allowed
• Bring chairs and chairs
• No alcohol, glass or grills
• Expect bag checks
• No tailgating in the parking lots

4th of July Parade America’s 250th

Ahead of the weekend’s festivities, you and the family can kick it off with a parade in Uptown, followed by a drone show.

When and where:

• July 3 beginning at 6:30 PM
• 1st Avenue (beginning on 14th) to 9th Street

Drone show immediately following in Synovus Park.

FreedomFest 1776 - 2026

The National Infantry Museum is hosting a free, family-friendly celebration of both America’s anniversary and the Fourth and there is something for everyone at this event.

When and where:

• National Infantry Museum
• 1775 Legacy Way
• July 4th
• 10 AM to 5 PM

What to expect:

• Live entertainment all day, capped by a concert from Keni Thomas
• Historic reenactors and military displays
• Bounce houses and family activities
• Food trucks

Freedom Festival Fireworks Show at Uptown Columbus

The annual Freedom Festival Fireworks Show is one of the most popular events on the calendar, and it’s completely free.

When and where:

• At nightfall
• Woodruff Park
• 1000 Bay Ave

What to know:

• Bring chairs and blankets
• Get their early (parking can be busy)
• Outside food and drinks are allowed
• Food trucks are available

What to bring with you:

If you’re planning to stay within your $25 budget, you’re going to have to pack supplies ahead of time. While most of the events have access to food and vendors, that $25 won’t go far.

For your cooler:

Plan to eat before you go and just bring snacks. You may have most of these items in your refrigerator now, but you can shop sales and discount shops to get the best deals.

• Sandwiches
• Chips or pretzels
• Carrot sticks
• Watermelon slices
• Cookies
• Reusable water bottles
• Ice packs (you can free sandwich bags the night before to use)
• Cutlery and napkins (and don’t forget the wipes if you have children)

To have fun:

If the venue allows, you can bring a few items with you.

• Sparklers ~$5
• Patriotic accessories: ~$10
• Glow ticks: $1.25
• Small flags: $1.25

This is definitely not a comprehensive list, so if you think I’ve left an event off or there’s more to do, email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

And don’t be afraid to tag me in all your summer and holiday snaps and pics.

This story was originally published June 12, 2026 at 6:00 AM.