OFFERMAN — Crowds from Pierce, Ware and Wayne counties and beyond converged at Mossy Pond Lodge over the weekend, braving the stormy weather, celebrating both the Fourth of July and America’s 250th birthday early, at the third annual Freedom Fest.
Festivities included food trucks, vendors, inflatables and fireworks, as well as multiple music performances throughout the evening. Headliners at the event included Niko Moon, Mark Chestnutt and Shenandoah, with Jake Bleau, the Derrick Flowers Band and Chase Baker opening.
According to operations manager Hannah Grant, the event started as an effort to provide a community event during the otherwise slow summer months.
“People think we’re private,” Grant said, “so we just wanted to provide something to the whole community to enjoy.”
The event is also a benefit, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Pierce County Recreation Department.
“The Rec and youth are important to Brad,” Grant said, referring to Mossy Pond founder Brad Arington.
Multiple local businesses sponsored the event, with Memorial Satilla Health and Walker Jones being presenting sponsors.
Grant added that Freedom Fest has grown each subsequent year, with this year offering a bigger fireworks display, a larger stage, as well as bigger headliners.
