Staunton was out in full force today to celebrate the fourth of July.

The sixteenth annual "America's Birthday Celebration" set up in gypsy hill park to thousands of locals. Rides, drinks, and food were all available to the public free of charge. A variety of bluegrass bands played well through the night until the firework finale at sunset.

Staunton feels like the public support and the energy of an event like this really defines the town:

"Everybody in the community looks forward to it each year. They love the fireworks. I just think it's a part of the city of staunton, and for all the surrounding areas, also."

Staunton was worried that the celebration wasn't going to be possible due to the damaging storms passing through. However, the park was free of debris yesterday, and the event was a success.

© Copyright 2013 WHSV / Gray Television Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.