CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- “USAA and the BaseFEST organization are bringing in all of these wonderful organizations and performances,” said Yolanda Mayo, the deputy operations officer for Marine Corps Community Services for MCB Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River. “This is an all-day event as a thank you to the troops, at no cost to us.”
Camp Lejeune will start Independence Day with a 21 gun salute at 12 p.m. at the W.P.T. Hill field next to the stage for all DoD ID card holders and their guests.
BaseFEST events start at 3 p.m., there will be adult games, activities, shopping, military non-profit organizations, kid friendly activities and food and beverage stands to refuel. BaseFEST will end with a spectacular fireworks display.
There will be a free concert with country stars Cole Swindell and Tyler Farr, rock and blues mixed artist Lindsay Ell, Ha Ha Tonka known for their southern rock, and Carlton Zeus, a hip-hop artist.
“I attended BaseFEST last year and had a blast competing in the physical competition,” said Mayo. “I got my name on the score board and won some sun glasses! It’s great because military members all love a good competition.”
General admission is free and includes lawn seating and access to all events, but to upgrade, premium tickets are available for purchase on the BaseFEST website at https://www.basefest.com/tickets.
There are limited premium tickets which grant special access to stage viewings, private bars, shaded areas, private restrooms, limited seating and more.
“Can't beat the entertainment lineup and BaseFEST has also added festival food and beverage options that will reach far beyond hot dogs and funnel cakes like last year,” said Patricia Schneider, recreational branch manager for MCCS for MCB Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River. “BaseFEST sponsors to include USAA, Monster, A-B and Sailor Jerry, will be providing exciting on site activities and lounges for guests to see what their brands are all about and how much they appreciate our military service members and their families.”
Camp Lejeune main gate and Wilson gate will be open to the general public with valid government issued ID at 2:30 p.m. No one will be allowed on base without proper identification or a sponsor.
Parking will be available at the Camp Lejeune Main Exchange parking lot and overflow parking at the Wallace Creek Fitness Center.
Accessible parking will be located in the Hadnot Point Plaza parking lot on Holcomb Blvd.
A free shuttle service will transport guests from parking at the Camp Lejeune Main Exchange and Wallace Creek Fitness center to and from the venue site.
According to the BaseFEST website, parking along the street will not be permitted. Officials advise BaseFest attendees to carpool and arrive early.
“Prepare for the heat, wear a hat, stay hydrated,” said Schneider. “Bring a chair or blanket. Take advantage of the shuttle transportation from the designated parking areas. Come ready to celebrate & have a great time!”
In case of inclement weather, only the fireworks will be rescheduled for July 5 at 8:30 p.m. This event will not be open to the general public and no shuttle service will be provided. Holcomb Blvd. will also be closed to traffic at 8 p.m.
To purchase tickets, see performance list, see a list of recommended and prohibited items or for more information go to: http://basefest.com.