-- Thousands inundated Rider University's campus in Lawrence tonight for an Independence Day celebration that included an enthralling concert and spectacular fireworks.

The free celebration officially kicked off at 7:30 p.m. with a concert featuring the rock-and-soul band Kindred Spirit (covering everything from Bruce Springsteen, to Bon Jovi, to the Beatles), followed by an extravagant 20-minute fireworks display at 9:40 p.m. While tonight's celebration was presented by the Lawrence Recreation Department, it was sponsored by ... well, many different people.

"We rely solely on donations from Rider University and local businesses and residents to make it happen every year," said department superintendent Christine Lee, who explained that fireworks for a celebration like this cost $20-30,000, or about $1,000 per minute. In order to collect donations from residents, the department utilizes year-round collection containers that can be found at local businesses around town.

"While Rider gives us the bulk of the funding, donations from individual residents, sports organizations, and private businesses show how important this celebration really is to the township," said Lee. "We're very grateful to Lawrence residents and Rider University. It's absolutely essential and crucial that Rider gives us the space to do this on their beautiful campus."

Lee stressed how important tonight's celebration is for Lawrence, explaining that the community has been coming together to celebrate Independence Day for approximately 40 years.

"It's important to come together to celebrate our veterans' victories and the accomplishments we've made as a nation," said Lee. "This is a perfect opportunity for people to come together that don't normally get together. It's about bonding with other folks in the community. We really wanted to make this a lot of fun and make it a nice event for the community."

Lambertville's Henry and Celia Struye-Auletta, two of the many children in attendance, were happy to be at such a festive community event.

"I think it's pretty cool when everyone gets together for a community gathering like this," said Henry, 9. "It's really cool to come and see people that you know."

His little sister agreed.

"I'm excited to hang out with everyone," said Celia, 6.

Just hours before the fireworks display lit up the sky, Henry shared his lofty expectations for the spectacle.

"I'm expecting fireballs to rain down," said Henry with a wide grin on his face.

Rich Cuccagna may be reached at rcuccagna@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @RichCuccagna. Find The Times of Trenton on Facebook.