Final July 4 concert on active base

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) - With Fort Monroe closing in September, Monday night will be the final "Fourth at the Fort" celebration on Fort Monroe as an active base.

Finished in 1834, Fort Monroe is the largest stone fort ever built in the United States.

The state is scheduled to take over Fort Monroe in September. It was slated for closure by the federal government in 2005 as part of a round of base closings intended to save money.

Spectator Mike Nothstein thinks Monday's celebration will be bittersweet.

"It's a sad feeling the last salute to the union here. Always sad to leave anyplace. Today is even sadder," said Nothstein.

Musicians Bradley Gaskin and Grant Austin Taylor are set to open tonight's show at Fort Monroe followed by a concert with American rock band, .38 Special and fireworks.

The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m. 

The event is free and open to the public.