FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (July 8, 2026) – More than 7,500 people gathered at Friendship Fountain on July 3 for the The City of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department (MAVD) annual Freedom Fest, creating one of the city’s largest patriotic celebrations as Jacksonville kicked off festivities leading into America’s 250th anniversary.
The free, family-friendly event welcomed veterans, active-duty military personnel, military families, and community members for an evening of live entertainment, patriotic tributes, food trucks, family activities, and community engagement, celebrating both the nation’s heritage and Jacksonville’s strong military community.
Dave MacCutcheon (left), founder of America 250 Proof, and singer-songwriter Sal Gonzales stand together before their performances at Freedom Fest, Friday, July 3, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Michael Mormile)
As one of Jacksonville’s signature Independence Day celebrations, Freedom Fest honored the generations of Americans whose courage, sacrifice, and service have preserved the freedoms enjoyed today while bringing together thousands of residents in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
“The incredible turnout for Freedom Fest demonstrates just how deeply our community values the men and women who have served our country,” said Harrison Conyers, Director of the Military Affairs and Veterans Department for the City of Jacksonville. “Seeing thousands of people come together to celebrate our nation’s history while honoring our military community made this year’s event especially meaningful as we begin commemorating America’s 250th birthday.”
One of the evening’s highlights was the live debut of “America 250 Proof,“ a new patriotic anthem created to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. Written and produced by Florida songwriter and America 250 Proof founder Dave MacCutcheon (MAC), the anthem was performed by featured vocalist Brian Iannucci and featured acoustic and electric guitar performances by Mike Estes, formerly of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The performance also introduced attendees to the broader America 250 Proof initiative, an educational and community engagement platform that celebrates America’s legacy through music, history, education, and service. Through the America 250 History Hunt™ and related programming, the initiative encourages participants to explore the people, innovations, and defining moments that have shaped the nation’s history.
“We created America 250 Proof to bring people together around our shared history and to honor the service, sacrifice, innovation, and perseverance that define the American story,” said Dave MacCutcheon, founder of America 250 Proof. “The overwhelming response at Freedom Fest exceeded our expectations and confirmed that Jacksonville is the perfect community to help launch this initiative as America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.”
Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed performances by Navy Pride, Bold City Brass, Sal Gonzales, Emily Mikus, M-A-C featuring Brian Iannucci, performing the live premiere of “America 250 Proof” and Big Engine
Guests also connected with local military organizations, veterans groups, and community partners dedicated to supporting service members and their families. The event’s complimentary apple pie giveaway was another popular attraction, with the first 1,000 attendees receiving a pie as part of the celebration.
The success of this year’s Freedom Fest reinforces Jacksonville’s longstanding reputation as one of the nation’s most military-friendly cities and highlights the community’s continued commitment to honoring those who have served.
About the City of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department
The City of Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department (MAVD) is dedicated to honoring and supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through free, compassionate, and comprehensive assistance programs. MAVD provides support with VA benefits and claims, career and employment services, housing and financial assistance, legal and tax resources, mental health and wellness referrals, and family and caregiver support.
As one of the most military-friendly cities in the nation, Jacksonville is committed to ensuring those who served receive the respect, support, and opportunities they deserve. Through advocacy, community partnerships, and direct services, MAVD works to restore dignity, empower lives, and ensure no veteran is left behind.
For assistance, visit MAVD at 117 W. Duval Street, Suite 175, Jacksonville, FL 32202, call (904) 255-5550, or email [email protected].
About America 250 Proof
America 250 Proof is a Florida-based patriotic initiative created to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary through music, storytelling, education, and community engagement. Anchored by its signature anthem, “America 250 Proof,” the platform provides an interactive destination where Americans can celebrate the people, milestones, and values that have shaped the nation’s history while inspiring future generations to carry forward its legacy.
For more information about America 250 Proof or to schedule interviews, contact Dave MacCutcheon at [email protected].
Contact:
Morgan Allen, Editor
Client Focused Media
[email protected]
(904) 232-3001
Keywords: America 250, Freedom Fest, Jacksonville, Veterans, Military, Patriotic Event, America 250 Proof, Anthem, Friendship Fountain, Independence Day, America 250 Celebration, Military Affairs and Veterans Department
