MCB CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune will celebrate America’s 250th birthday with its annual Independence Day event, bringing together the military community for a day of festivities honoring the nation’s independence and this historic milestone. This year’s celebration will pay special tribute as the nation marks two and a half centuries of freedom, democracy, and the sacrifices made by generations of service members to preserve it.
This year’s event will feature an exciting musical lineup headlined by multi-platinum Curb Records hitmaker Dylan Scott. Posting back-to-back No. 1s in 2025 and six No. 1s overall, Scott wrapped 2025 as the third most-played country artist of the year at country radio and continues his momentum with his current Top 10 single, Platinum-certified “What He’ll Never Have.” He has built a devoted following through authentic storytelling and energetic performances.
Opening the show will be Hot Chelle Rae, the chart-topping pop-rock band known for massive hooks and high-energy performances. They broke out worldwide with multi-Platinum hits like “Tonight Tonight” and “I Like It Like That.” With more than 1 billion global streams, an American Music Award, and tours alongside Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, and Justin Bieber, the band became a defining part of the 2010s pop-rock scene. They recently completed their first full-length album since 2011, delivering a feel-good, high-energy record that blends their signature sound with a fresh wave of Y2K-inspired alt-pop.
“We’re honored to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with our military families,” said George Williams, Assistant Chief of Staff, Marine Corps Community Services, Marine Corps Installations East. “This milestone reminds us of the enduring values our service members protect every day and the legacy of those who came before them.”
The celebration promises a memorable day of live music, fireworks, and patriotic spirit as the base community comes together to mark this historic anniversary.
DoW ID cardholders requesting base access for guests are strongly encouraged to begin the pass application process now to ensure adequate processing time.
Free admission for DoW ID cardholders and their guests. Trusted Traveler remains suspended. All guests ages 18 and older who do not have a DoW-issued ID card must be sponsored by an authorized cardholder in order to obtain a visitor pass in advance—no exceptions,
Passes must be requested by June 26, and June 22 for foreign nationals.
The Visitor Center will be closed on July 3 and is currently scheduled to be closed on July 4. Visitors and sponsors should monitor the Base Access website for submission process and updates: https://www.lejeune.marines.mil/Sections/Provost-Marshals-Office/#sponsored-visitor-requests.
For event information, visit: https://lejeunenewriver.usmc-mccs.org/july4.