The America250 in Idaho Freedom Festival looked back at 9/11 and celebrated patriotism
Published at | Updated at
IDAHO FALLS — On the night of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, a small gathering made its way to the Bonneville County Fairgrounds to celebrate 250 years of America and to remember the lives lost many years ago.
The Freedom Festival brought the community together for a night of games and music, and a celebration of the American spirit.
Emcees Jay Hildebrant and Karol Honas opened the festival by welcoming singer and Idaho Falls radio host Jay Osmond, who performed for the gathered crowd.
RELATED | Idaho Falls festival to honor nation, veterans and 9/11 heroes
EastIdahoNews.com previously reported in June that Idaho suprased its goal of 250,000 acts of service as part of its celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Susan and Gaylen Stucki, specialists for Idaho Falls JustServe — a nonprofit connecting people with service opportunities — asked those in attendance to keep completing acts of service and volunteering in the community.
RELATED | After 250K acts of service, Idaho Falls residents aren’t done yet
During the commemoration of 9/11, organizers played a recording of Alan Jackson’s song, “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning). The Eagle Rock Pipes and Drums performed afterward.
To close the night, the Freedom Festival began its trivia challenge with three groups of contestants: the Study Spuddy’s, the Midnight Riders and the Red, White and Blue team.
The trivia comprised questions about U.S. currency and the historical figures who appear on it. With each correct answer, runners were chosen from the audience to grab money from the trivia hosts, Shelly and Bret Yorgensen.
Throughout the night, community members had the chance to view the Idaho Liberty Bell and ring it. The replica, which normally sits near the Grand steps of the Idaho Capitol Building, kicked off a tour across the state on Sept. 2.
Here’s how eastern Idaho embodied the meaning of never forget by honoring veterans and first responders.
RELATED LINKS
PHOTO GALLERY: First responders join Hillcrest, Shelley football teams for special 9/11 tribute
INL firefighters honor the 343 fallen first responders of Sept. 11 attacks 25 years later
Madison County’s Bagpipe Brigade to perform for the last time
How ISU, Bannock County will memorialize the 25th anniversary of 9/11
Local students hosts first responders appreciation breakfast ahead of 25th anniversary of 9/11