WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Rain didn’t stop the show this year.
Despite a 15 minute rain delay towards the start of the event, the 41st annual Warner Robins Independence Day Celebration pressed on.
Nearly a year ago, the celebration was canceled due to poor weather. However, this year the show, held in the parking lot at McConnell-Talbert Stadium, pushed through the storms for big time performances.
Headliners Scott Stapp — the lead singer of Creed — and 70s classic band Jefferson Starship, who’s song “We Built This City” was once a chart topper, returned from last year. The two didn’t get to perform in 2023 because of the weather cancellation, but got a chance this time around.
"Due to overwhelming community feedback following last year's rainout, the City of Warner Robins is delighted to bring back two powerhouse acts that were unable to perform," the city said in January. "It promises to be an evening filled with electrifying performances and musical magic."
There were also over 20 food trucks serving a wide variety of different eats. There were also plenty of frozen treats for those looking to beat the heat.
Chris Shumphard, who runs Shumphard Photography in Warner Robins, loved getting out to the event and capturing the moments and reactions of the hundreds of people in attendance.
“It’s content for me,” he said. “Lot of people, lot of food trucks, lot of other businesses. It’s a great networking opportunity for me.”
Jefferson Starship kicked off the show at 7 p.m. with Stapp performing after. The large band played many of their classic hits, while Stapp played songs from Creed and his solo career.
Most people, before the music even began to play, were the most excited for the conclusion of the show.
The event, like any 4th of July celebration, ended with a massive fireworks display that could be seen from a few miles away.
While the rain didn’t stop the show from taking the stage, it did limit how many would actually come out. The City of Warner Robins, who put on the show, expected 10,000 guests.
The number may not have reached that level, but it had done so in the past.
“If we go to the year before (2022), it was packed,” Shumphard said. “If weather wasn’t a factor we wouldn’t have any of this space out here right now.”
Those attending are already looking forward to next year's rendition, with many hoping for drier weather next time around.