The Army Ground Forces Band is known for the many ways it supports the community. From 4th Friday concerts to ceremonies to free summer concerts, the band brings a wealth of talent and enthusiasm to the Fayetteville entertainment landscape. With a fun-filled night of music with Cumberland County’s smallest residents in mind, the Army Ground Forces Band presents Kid’s Night on Friday, Aug. 14 at 6 p.m. at Festival Park in downtown Fayetteville.  

“This is our first annual Kid’s Night as part of our summer concert series at Festival Park and it is geared towards our youngest fans and getting them involved,” said Dae Kim, commander and conductor of the Army Ground Forces Band. “It will be an interactive evening of stories set to music and fun activities.” 

Kim added that the purpose of the event is to allow the Army an opportunity to interact more with the community, become good neighbors and say hello. 

The fun-filled event will begin with kid’s activities that include bouncy houses, an obstacle course, pin the musical note on the staff, face painting, an instrument factory, arts and crafts and a kid’s march along with the marching band featuring a ceremonial drum major. Story time will follow in the concept of a mini concert. Refreshments will be available for purchase.     

The Army Ground Forces Band is a 54-soldier ensemble that is highly competitive and highly trained. Musicians in the band have graduated and attended some of the best conservatories of music in the country. 

“We are active duty service members and our mission is to be the musical ambassadors of the American combat soldier to the American people,” said Kim. “Our band performs more than 200 performances per year.”  

Kim added that the soldiers are one of the top three musical ensembles in the active Army.   

The history of the band began with the Mexican War where its members fought heroically, becoming the only Army band to receive a combat distinction from the President of the United States. The band’s history includes service in the Civil War, the War with Spain, the Philippine Insurrection and both World Wars. The band performs numerous concerts in support of local, regional and national events such as centennial celebrations, festivals, inaugurations and both city and state commemorations.  

“We anticipate 100 or more kids and encourage parents to bring a blanket and a picnic,” said Kim. “Come out and join us for an evening of fun just for the kids.”   

The event is free and open to the public. For more information call 570-7223.