Independence Day is quickly approaching so we collected some of the most popular and interesting 4th of July events to attend in and around Seattle for 2018. You can choose from one of the hundreds of parks to barbeque, enjoy water sports, view fireworks and eat some great food while sleeping in your nice soft bed at night, or you could join thousands of campers celebrating around the Puget Sound relaxing in tents or enjoy the comfort and convenience of enjoying the holiday in the city.
By far the most popular and one of the greatest fireworks shows in town is The Seafair Summer Fourth located at Seattle’s Gasworks Park. It’s a family friendly festival with events and games all day, including a pie eating contest, sack races and tug of war. Live music and a beer garden are also available. When it’s time for fireworks you can watch on the lawn for free with the masses or pay for VIP passes where you are guaranteed a view with lawn chairs provided. The fireworks can also be viewed from Lake Union Park. To let you in on a local secret, the best view is from the water. Rope in a friend with a boat, find a rental or bring one yourself, it’ll be worth it to see the explosions of color reflected on Lake Union with city lights in the distance.
For those of you over 21 and looking for a party on the water, buy tickets now for the 4th of July Boat Party, there’s only space for 150 people so the sooner you have your tickets the better. Two floors, a dance floor, champagne table service and an amazing view of the fireworks over Lake Union. Dance the night away while cruising around Lake Union and Lake Washington. Another place to enjoy some drinks at but on dry land is the swanky mbar is hosting a rooftop party. The event tickets are $80 and include an appetizer buffet and a rooftop view of Lake Union’s famous fireworks.
Want to celebrate the night before?. Since July 4th is a holiday, then you’ll need somewhere to celebrate after work on July 3rd. Nectar Lounge in Fremont is hosting a Jai Ho! Dance Party: Red, White and Bollywood. If that name doesn’t get you to go I don’t know what will. Indian style music and including a dance class is sure to be a fun and entertaining evening.
For East side dwellers, Bellevue Downtown Park is the place to go for fireworks. A family friendly day starts early and will give you plenty of time to enjoy the park. A fun zone area is set up for the kids, live music and food are available before the remarkable fireworks show. Celebrate Kirkland has events scheduled for the family starting as early as 10 am. Kids can decorate for a parade starting at 11:30. Stay for food, picnics and music. Fireworks will be at Marina Park at 10:15 pm. The City of Sammamish and Microsoft have teamed up together to create an enjoyable evening starting at 6:00 pm with lots of food trucks, giveaways, games for kids and adults and of course fireworks. In Renton the party starts early at 9:00 am with an all-day volleyball tournament. Located at the Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park which is a destination in itself covering 57 acres and located on Lake Washington. Bring your boat to enjoy the 25-minute fireworks show from the lake at 10:00 pm.
Looking for a dog friendly 4th of July event around Seattle? The 4th of July isn’t only for humans, start the day off right with a good deed and a fun morning. Grab your dog and head to Four on the Fourth Dog Jog and Walk, tickets are $20 benefiting the humane society in Bellevue. If you don’t yet have a dog, not to worry, look for a big yellow bus full of furry friends needing a good home! Help your new friend declare independence from the humane society’s kennel. Afterwards is a doggie costume contest and a bounce house for your two-legged kids.
A word to the wise; although fireworks can be bought easily throughout the state of Washington they are banned by most cities in the area. If you’re caught lighting them off you can receive a large fine. Please check here for your local laws.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
