The Charleston Recreation Board in partnership with the Charleston Community Choir and 10 Charleston area churches is sponsoring a patriotic celebration Sunday in the Charleston Park off Worth Street.

“This is a time for the whole community to celebrate America’s freedom together,” said Darlene Goins, director of the Charleston Community Choir.

Free hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be provided in the park for those in attendance at 6 p.m., following a welcome address from Mayor Walter Goode. The patriotic musical, “This is My Country” will begin at 7 p.m. The choir will be singing a combination of patriotic songs.

“The choir decided we wanted to do something where we could get more of the community of Charleston involved,” Goins said. “We felt like if we could do this in the park then we would get a greater turnout.”

According to Goins, the recreation board is planning for about 400 people.

“If the event is a success then we hope to continue next year. We may even be able to make it a little better,” Goins shared.

There will be free watermelon slices provided by Mike Brown following the 45-minute concert. Those in attendance are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets to use throughout the event.

“We would like to thank the Piggly Wiggly for the buns they have donated for the event,” Goins said. “Also, I would like to give a special invitation to any vets in our area to attend the event.”

The Charleston Community Choir was revitalized 13 years ago under the directorship of Goins. The choir has attempted to provide two musical concerts every year.

“Usually we do a concert at Christmas and another at Easter,” Goins explained. “This year we did an Easter concert and this Fourth of July musical number. At this time, there are no plans to do a concert for Christmas.”

According to Goins, the choir practices for several weeks at Charleston United Methodist Church before an event. There is usually a several month break following their musical programs.

“Sometimes we will perform at other churches in the area or perform for a Community Thanksgiving Service,” Goins said. “We will be taking a couple of months off after this event on Sunday night.”

Anyone interested in joining the choir may contact Darlene Goins at 336-2763.