Forge Fest 2025

• 1700-1745 DJ ​

• 1755-1820 Opening Remarks/Nation Anthem ​

• 1820-1845 DJ Rhino​

• 1900-1945 LIVE MUSIC

• 2000-2045 Intermission/Awards ​

(250th Birthday)​

• 2045-2100 Stage Change​

• 2100-2330 LIVE MUSIC

• 2330-UTC Fireworks

• Personal belongings are subject to search at the event entry point. No backpacks.
• Coolers and similar containers are NOT allowed. Only small insulated coolers for infant formula, water and diaper bags will be allowed.
• Outside food and drink are not permitted inside the gates. Refreshments and food are available for purchase.
• Alcoholic beverages are served only to patrons 21+ and displaying alcohol wristband. Receive wristband at designated area. 
• No weapons are permitted. (Includes small knives, leatherman tools, etc.)
• No cannabis or recreational drugs are permitted.
• No pets (except service animals), glass, fireworks, or Frisbees.
• Unruly behavior will not be tolerated.
• Military Police will staff the event to maintain safety and security.

Who can attend ForgeFest?

This event is free and open to the general public.

Are tickets required to attend?

No, there is no ticketing or reservation system for the event.

How can I obtain a visitor's pass for Salute to the Troops, if I am not a DoD ID or CAC Cardholder? 

Use the following link to register for your visitor's pass. If your pass has been authorized you may pick them up at the Visitor Control Center located on Entrance Rd

https://pass.aie.army.mil/?b=usa&i=fort_POLK&t=v

Passes can still be acquired by visiting VCC during normal hours of operations. Any other questions regarding installation access can be answered by the Visitor Control Center at (337) 531-0380

What are gate hours?

•ACP 1 (Entrance Road)

•Entry/exit - 24/7

•ACP 2 (Parkway Elem Gate)

•Exit only, Saturday, 2100 to venue close (extended hours)

•ACP 5 (Post Office Gate)

•Entry/exit – Saturday, 09:00 to 16:00.

•Exit Only – Saturday, 21:00 to venue close (extended hours)

•ACP 6 (Chaffee Road)

•Entry/exit – 05:00-21:00

•ACP 7 (Alligator Lake)

Entry/exit - 24/7

Will there be a shuttle buses/ parking areas for those on the installation?

There will be four parking areas on the installation where you can also catch a shuttle, free of charge. 

1. MTC (intersection of Mississippi and Chaffee)
2. Former Commissary and PX
3. Education Center
4. BJACH (shuttle and walking)

Will there be food and beverages for purchase? 

We will have plenty of food vendors and beverages including water will be at Salute to the Troops. Outside food or drink will not be permitted inside the gates. Only small insulated coolers for infant formula, water and diaper bags will be allowed. 

What are we allowed to bring?

Blankets, lawn chairs, cash, sunscreen, strollers, and small insulated coolers for infant formula, water and diaper bags ONLY

Items PROHIBITED to bring are:

• Pets
• Tents
• Canopies
• Coolers
• Outside food or beverages
• Alcohol 
• Glass bottles
• Weapons
• Video Cameras
• Backpacks or large bags
• Professional cameras with telephoto lenses
• Personal Fireworks
• Recreational drugs or cannabis items

Personal items entering event site are subject to search at anytime. 

Can we bring pets?

No. For safety and sanitation reasons, please leave your pets at home. Service dogs are permitted.