People were celebrating the Fourth of July early in Staunton Thursday night, as part of the city's Independence Day celebrations.

Three days of events kicked off at Gypsy Hill Park with gospel singers, concessions, kids rides, and a religious service. The Memorial Baptist Church Choir sang between sermons and speeches, followed by gospel music from Janet Paschal and Ivan Parker.

"It means a lot to a whole lot of people," says Ray Houser, the coordinator of the Vesper Service. "It used to be that we had people drive here from a long ways, and we're still having them come in here. It's still quite a crowd-drawer. Somebody's going to find something that they like about the whole evening."

The city also has several more plans for the Fourth of July on Friday, including a parade at 10 a.m., live music from country music singer Colin Raye, a flag ceremony, and fireworks.