As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Sunbury’s Fort Morris Historic Site will host an Independence Day celebration.

From 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on July 4, Fort Morris visitors will experience historic black powder weapon-firing demonstrations each hour, living history programs, old-fashioned toys and games, sack races, jump rope, beanbags, and more. Admission is free, thanks to the Friends of Fort Morris.

Those who attend the Fort Morris celebration will receive a $4 discount to enter Fort McAllister near Richmond Hill for its July 4 celebration from 4–7 p.m. Visitors to both sites will receive a special commemorative wooden coin, while supplies last.

When the Continental Congress convened in 1776, the delegates recognized the importance of a fort to protect their growing seaport from the British. Soon afterwards, a low bluff on the Medway River at Sunbury was fortified and garrisoned by 200 patriots. When the British demanded the fort’s surrender on November 25, 1778, the defiant Col. John McIntosh replied, “Come and take it!” The British refused and withdrew back to Florida. Forty-five days later, they returned with a superior force, and on January 9, 1779, Fort Morris fell after a short but heavy bombardment.

Under the name of Fort Defiance, this bulwark was once again used against the British during the War of 1812, and Sunbury’s harbor was guarded by armed barges. Today, visitors can stand within the earthwork remains and view scenic Saint Catherines Sound. A museum and film describe the colonial port of Sunbury and the site’s history.

Visitors may borrow binoculars and a field guide to go birding. Downy woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, goldfinches, wood storks, painted buntings, great egrets and many other coastal species can be seen.

Fort Stewart will host its celebration July 2 from 5–10 p.m. at Donovan Field, with the playing of the national anthem and a flyover scheduled for 5:20 p.m. A battle of the bands starts at 5:30 p.m., with the winner announced at 9:55 p.m., followed by a fireworks display at 10 p.m.

The bands include Lyn Avenue out of Savannah, Willie Jackson and the Tybee Blues Band, Unifya out of Savannah, and Keys and Company.

The festival includes food trucks, vendors and family-friendly activities.

Community members are not current Department of War ID cardholders should have applied for a pass before June 25 for access.