05/07/2026
🇺🇸 🎤🤩 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT 🤩🎤🇺🇸 Two multiplatinum acts, Gavin DeGraw and Plain White T's, are set to coheadline Fort Benning’s Freedom 250 Independence Celebration presented by the Russell County Commission on June 27, 2026. Festivities kick off at 4 p.m. and include military demonstrations, food vendors, children’s activities and a large fireworks display to celebrate our nation’s 250 years of independence.
Gavin DeGraw, the GRAMMY® Award-nominated multiplatinum singer and songwriter renowned for his signature fusion of pop, soul, country, folk, and funk, first captured hearts with his 2003 Platinum-certified debut album, Chariot, which delivered the Gold single “Follow Through” and Platinum hits “Chariot” and the iconic “I Don’t Want To Be.”
Since emerging in 1997, the Chicago quartet Plain White T's have made a lasting impact with their catchy pop rock anthems. Their iconic single "Hey There Delilah" reached quadruple Platinum status, held the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100, and garnered two GRAMMY® nominations in 2008. Known for their infectious melodies and engaging performances, Plain White T's continue to be a dominant force in the music scene.
The 2026 Independence Celebration will also include a Kids Zone sponsored by Fort Benning’s Qualified Recycling Program, 34-foot jump towers, a variety of food trucks, and an entire field dedicated to celebrating Freedom 250 with static military displays and demonstrations.
The Maneuver Center of Excellence Band concludes the evening with a patriotic score choreographed to the fireworks show.
The entire community is invited to join our Soldiers and their families for a free concert, fireworks and more! The 2026 Fort Benning Independence Celebration starts at 4 p.m. on York Field, located on Eckel Avenue in front of McGinnis-Wickam Hall, Building 4. Stay tuned to benning.armymwr.com for more information and gate access procedures.
*Sponsorship does not imply federal endorsement.
