More than 6,000 people will head to the West End tomorrow to celebrate US Independence Day.

Although July 4 isn't until the middle of next week the US Consulate will be holding the biggest Independence Day celebrations outside America this weekend.

And they are in the process of trying to get the event recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records.

The theme is "Giving Back to Bermuda", and with more than 60 charities involved in the event as well as dozens of corporate sponsors the day should raise approximately $100,000 for the various philanthropy groups attending.

The event is hosted by the American Society, a Bermuda-registered charity founded in 1953, with the aim of fostering friendly relations between Bermuda and the US and the US Consulate.

It will take place on June 30, from 5 to 10 p.m. at Moresby Plain, Ireland Island North.

US Consul General Gregory Slayton said: "We really want to celebrate the things that Bermuda and America have in common such as a respect for democracy.

The event used to be just for Americans on the Island but for the last two years we have tried to make it more inclusive and have a broad cross-section of society involved.

"With 6,000 attending that is almost ten percent of Bermuda's population. It should be a great day filled with entertainment and good fun."

There will be games and activities on hand to keep kids and teens occupied, such as volleyball, a dunking stool, face painting, jumping castles and basketball.

The Bermuda Hogges will also be there to show football fans a trick or two.

The event is also the first time two US Congress members will join in the festivities.

GK Butterfield, whose father was born in St. George's, and Diane Watson, a friend of Premier Ewart Brown since his days in Los Angeles, will be co-chairing the festivities.

Volunteers from 50-plus charities will also be on hand to make sure the day goes smoothly, helping with food, entertainment and activities.

There will also be a philanthropy tent with information about the various charities and Mr. Slayton hopes that people attending the event will take time out to learn more about each of the charities involved and sign up to assist them.

"I've lived all over the world but I have never seen a country with as much corporate sponsorship or philanthropic organisations," he said. "We hope people will get into the spirit on Saturday and learn more about the charities."

With so many people attending the event, Mr. Slayton stressed that, without a wristband, no one would gain entry: "We already have 6,000 people coming, and unfortunately if you don't have the band, we won't be able to let you in.

"But if you are interested in it then join the American Society so that you can get tickets to next year's event."

He also urged people to avail of the free public transport available on Saturday so as to avoid any traffic jams and prevent drinking and driving.

Anyone with the wristband will be able to use regular buses and ferries as well as ones that have been added to the schedule to cater to the event.

The event would not be possible without the generosity of Bermuda's corporate sponsors and Mr. Slayton thanked their premium sponsors The Ace Foundation, Bacardi, RenRe and the XL Foundation.

For more information on the event visit www.americansociety.bm.