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The United States Naval Academy Band, “”The Navy’s Oldest and Finest Band”” has accepted the county’s invitation to perform during Queen Anne’s County’s July 3rd Independence Day Celebration at Chesapeake Exploration Center at Kent Narrows. 

 Now in its 151st year of supporting the Brigade of Midshipmen, the band’s reputation as a musical representative of the Navy has never been greater. Today’s version of the Naval Academy Band is a far cry from the thirteen men who reported to Annapolis in 1853. A succession of leaders and instrumentalists, each adding his or her special talent to the band’s repertoire, has created the product which they proudly present for our enjoyment.

Twenty eight band members will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. and play a selection of marches and patriotic songs chosen from the band’s extensive music library.

 The free family friendly festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with face painters, balloon twisters, a tumbling center while local disc jockey Chad Marshall spins summer tunes for the crowd’s enjoyment. Vendors will be selling food, drinks, kid’s trinkets and rides.

 Families are welcome to enjoy a free magic show beginning at 7:30 p.m., followed at 8:30 p.m. by the United States Naval Academy Band which will kick-off the 9:20 p.m. fireworks show by playing Stars and Stripes Forever.

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