When attorney Peter Mougey signed a $100,000 contract nine years ago to bring the Pensacola Symphony back to town for the 4th of July, he didn’t know how he would raise the money, but he had vision, determination, and an unwavering belief that his community deserved better.
Background
The Pensacola Symphony’s 4th of July performance had been a cherished tradition until budget constraints forced it to relocate to nearby towns. Recognizing what the community was missing, Mougey approached the symphony with a bold proposition: return to Pensacola, and he would personally guarantee their contract.
- “I went to the mayor and said, we really got to up our 4th of July game,” Mougey recalls. “We have the biggest military presence in the world here in Pensacola. We do absolutely nothing with the Navy, nothing with the Marine Corps, nothing with the symphony.”
Working with then-Mayor Ashton Hayward, who contributed the use of the waterfront amphitheater, Mougey and his wife Katrina developed a sustainable model that has carried the event into its ninth successful year.
- The event has grown into something truly special. Every 4th of July, the symphony performs from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the beautiful Hunter Amphitheater behind Blue Wahoos Stadium, right on the water. The evening is free to the public and features a bay breeze, spectacular views, and music that stirs the soul.
- But perhaps the most memorable moment comes right at 7:30 p.m. when the national anthem begins. Thanks to the Navy’s enthusiastic support, jets fly over the amphitheater and down to the base of the Three Mile Bridge, creating a spine-tingling moment for everyone in attendance. The entire performance is also broadcast on local radio, extending the reach of this community celebration.
Bringing the Community Together
In an era of political division, Mougey sees the 4th of July symphony as something more than entertainment—it’s a chance for the community to come together. “I think the 4th of July is a wonderful way to come together as a community, as a country, and celebrate everything that we share in our country and our history,” he reflects.
This year’s event falls on Friday, July 4th, making it even more special as attendees won’t have to worry about getting up for work the next day. The symphony begins at 7:30 PM, followed by fireworks at 9:00 PM.
The success of this event represents more than just a night of music and fireworks—it’s a testament to what can happen when individuals step up to serve their community. As Mougey puts it, “It’s really turned into one hell of an event.”
Event Details: Friday, July 4th, 7:30-9:00 p.m. at the Hunter Amphitheater. Free to the public. Listen live on local radio stations.