May 21st is a special day for those in the military and their families. It's a chance to take a break from the hard work of defending our country, and spend time relaxing and enjoying the festivities of Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Armed Forces Day.

When it comes to great activities for the whole family, the options are nearly limitless on Armed Forces Day. For those uninitiated, it might be best to think of the event as a small-scale, military-themed version of the Puyallup Fair. Are there great shows and musical acts? You bet. Kid-friendly diversions? Absolutely. Greasy food stands that will clog your arteries faster than Tyler Lockett returns a kickoff? Is that even a question?

One of the performers are the children's band Recess Monkey, who are not only Seattle locals, but also performed for children's shows like Yo Gabba Gabba Live! And who can forget festival staples like Chuck Amos, the hobo clown and ventriloquist, a stilt cowboy named Leapin' Louie, and of course, as is necessary at any fair or festival, a magician. The appearance that may excite kids (and adults) the most is an appearance from the Seahawks' mascot, Blitz, in all of his neon-accented glory.

Naturally, Armed Forces Day has some military-specific events planned to keep the festivities unique to its setting. First off, sports fanatics can catch the Army vs. Navy rugby match, when those from the Kitsap Naval Base take on JBLM's soldiers in one of the most aggressive sports around. If you're more of a history buff, there will be multiple reenactments of classic battles, as well as some impressive military displays. In fact, Colin Brooks, a representative for JBLM said that these shows might be one of the main reasons to come visit.

"One thing that makes Armed Forces Day unique is our living history groups - the re-enactors," Brooks said. "We fill a whole field full of historical re-enactors, everything from World War I to World War II to the Revolutionary War, even the Greeks and Romans."

And if all of this isn't enough to entice you to visit Armed Forces Day, maybe this will: it's absolutely free. And civilians are welcome on the base as well. The festival will take place between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. between Cowan and Memorial Stadiums.  For more information, visit jblmmwr.com/armedforcesday.