"This year's Fourth of July is a perfect time to spend a weekend in a community that knows the meaning of fighting for our freedoms," says a spokesman. "From patriotic celebrations to relaxing gardens and art galleries, the whole family will enjoy a weekend at the home of the brave."

For an Independence Day celebration, come to Fort Bragg for "Operation Celebrate Freedom." The afternoon will be filled with fun activities, carnival rides, and live concerts from country artists Wynonna Judd, Rockie Lynne, and Dakota Rain.

Dakota Rain takes to the stage at 3:30 p.m. with its own blend of country, followed by former Fort Bragg soldier, Rockie Lynne at 4:45 p.m. At 5:45 p.m., the Golden Knights will perform a freefall parachute demonstration. Nationally acclaimed music artist Wynonna Judd will grace the stage at 6:15 p.m.

"Stick around for remarks and recognition of our heroes, followed by a dignified flag ceremony that celebrates each state, territory, and attending military division," says the spokesman.

As the twilight settles in, the 82nd Division All-American Band will entertain the gathering crowd with a variety of classics, including the "1812 Overture" -- punctuated by cannon fire. At 9:30 p.m., a spectacular fireworks display will light up the sky. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early due to the popularity of this event, which is free and open to the public. No pets or glass bottles are allowed; tents and shelters must be erected in the designated area only.

"Drop into Fort Bragg early on July 4 and pay a visit to the 82d Airborne Division War Memorial Museum," says the spokesman.

Children and adults will be fascinated by an entire field filled with retired airplanes, helicopters, artillery, and tanks on display. Inside the museum, learn about the activities of the 82d Airborne Division since World War II. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

South of Fayetteville, the Dog House Bar and Restaurant presents "Freedom Bike Rally," an Independence Day celebration that takes up 300 acres just off I-95 at exit 33. Camp out, or stay in a nice, comfy hotel at exit 49, just minutes away from three days filled with daily bike shows, 14 live bands, and over 100 bike and accessory vendors. Bands include Daryle Singletary, Sammy Kershaw, Rebel Son, Crush N Run, the Fifth, Barry Brown, On Tap, DL Token, and many more. Tattoo shows, biker Olympics, FMX stunt riders, extreme sky divers, celebrity bike builders, and daily benefit rides complete the event.

"Enjoy a single day for only $25, or attend all three days for $50," says the spokesman.

In Hope Mills, enjoy a small town July 4 celebration with parade, live music, and patriotic activities all day long, culminating in a fireworks display. The parade starts at Hope Mills Middle School at 10 a.m., and travels to Municipal Park on Rockfish Road . At noon, visitors may enjoy kids' activities and live entertainment. Dakota Rain will perform just before the fireworks begin at 10 p.m.

"Visit the Airborne and Special Operations Museum for a special exhibit on the origins of the OSS," says the spokesman.

The Special Operations (SO) branch of the OSS weakened the enemy's will to fight through infiltration, sabotage, and support to guerilla and resistance units. Admission to the museum is free, and for only $4 visitors can enjoy a movie or simulator ride. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.

On Saturday, take a stroll through hiking trails, landscaped lawns, verdant specialty gardens, and relaxing vistas at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. The garden is open free of charge from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month.

Those craving some serious racing, can check out the Fayetteville Motor Speedway on Saturday night during Carolina Clash. The pit gate opens at 4 p.m., and the grandstand gate opens at 5 p.m. Bounce houses, slides and games will be set up for the kids. In celebration of this holiday weekend, fireworks will light up the sky. Six different classes of cars will compete for a $5,000 prize.

At the Fayetteville Museum of Art, "Fused and Divided" features the work of two leading contemporary artists from Charleston, S.C. The interlacing of Yvette Dede's drawings and Herb Parker's sculptures mirror their fused lives and divided aesthetic approach. The museum is closed July 4, but is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday through Sunday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Information can be found at www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com.