Firefighters from the surrounding area gathered to compete in the 39th annual Firefighter’s Freedom Competition on Saturday in Southport.

Following the opening ceremony, competitors participated in events including a firefighter relay, tanker tug, bucket brigade, barrel push, pie-eating contest, and a fire extinguisher demonstration. Each event showcased different skills and training.

Attendees packed the bleachers surrounding the pit to cheer on teams from the Boiling Spring Lakes Fire Department, Winnabow Fire Department, Bolivia Fire Department, and Southport Fire Department. For some events, volunteers from the crowd participated alongside department teams.

The event was filled with water activities, with some firefighters even taking a dunk in the bucket brigade container to cool off from the sun’s heat after the competition. A running sprinkler provided extra fun for children and other spectators.

Guests were able to purchase t-shirts, participate in a raffle, and buy food and drinks from concession stands. A helicopter landing, fire engines, and other safety equipment were on display throughout the area. The 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Memorial Exhibit was also featured at the event, with Southport as its seventh stop for this year.

Members of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina 4th of July Festival Commitee, governing board of the City of Southport, Mayor Rich Alt, and other community members were present at Saturday’s competition, which began around 3 p.m.

The Firefighter’s Freedom Competition took place at the Southport Fire Substation, located at 115 E. Nash Street, Southport. Saturday’s competition was one of many events part of Southport’s Independence Day celebrations.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: 39th Annual Firefighter’s Freedom Competition in Southport, NC