“Oh say can you see…” Do you recognize those lyrics? Of course you do. It’s the legendary opening line from “The Star Spangled Banner,” our country’s national anthem and a song that will be played in repetition on Friday, July 4, as people from across the United States gather to celebrate the independence of our country.
So how do you plan on celebrating? If you haven’t made plans yet, consider getting out into the community to enjoy one of the many neighborhood 4th of July events happening across Pierce County.
Tacoma’s Freedom Fair
Tacoma’s Freedom Fair is one of Pierce County’s liveliest 4th of July celebrations. Taking place along the entire stretch of Tacoma’s Ruston Way waterfront, the Tacoma Freedom Fair is a full day of fun for the entire family. The Freedom Fair Express Bus Service will be available to help shuttle people to and from the Fair, or, fairgoers can hunt for parking in nearby neighborhoods – first come first serve. Admission to the Fair is free, but donations are encouraged.
Once you and your family arrive at the Fair, get ready to experience live entertainment, music, food, an airshow and the grand finale – a dazzling, fireworks display along Ruston Way.
Between 1:30 p.m and 3:30 p.m., fairgoers are invited to watch as a mesmerizing aviation act fills the skies above Tacoma’s Commencement Bay during the much anticipated Freedom Fair Airshow. Live music will be playing all day to keep you dancing as you experience everything that the festival has to offer, including special kids events, a BMX bike show, pole vaulting, arts and crafts at the International Marketplace, and more.
Of course, you’re bound to get hungry, which is why all your favorite food vendors will be on hand to serve up tasty eats to sate your appetite.
Once the sun begins to set and the sky dims (promptly at 10:10 p.m.), a fireworks extravaganza will dazzle and delight spectators of all ages. For more information about this year’s Freedom Fair, click here.
JBLM Freedom Fest
On Friday, July 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Joint Base Lewis-McChord invites the public to enjoy a patriotic celebration filled with live music, aerial demonstrations, military displays, carnival rides, a car show, fireworks and more, at the 2014 JBLM Freedom Fest. The celebration kicks-off at 11:00 a.m. with an aerial demonstration over Gray Army Airfield that is sure to impress. Live music from renowned artists like Sugarland’s Kristian Bush will delight the ears of festivalgoers throughout the day, while roving entertainers will charm passersby with talented displays of juggling, magic, hula hooping and more. Children will love the shows presented on the Kid’s World Stage, including “A Crazy Game Show,” “Snakes, Lizards, and Gators,” and more.
The JBLM Freedom Fest is a South Sound favorite when it comes to celebrating our country’s Independence Day – don’t miss out on the fun! For more details about the event, parking information and more, visit the JBLM Freedom Fest page here.
Steilacoom Grand Old 4th of July Celebration
The people of Steilacoom know how to celebrate their country well, and they do so every year during their annual Grand Old 4th of July Celebration. On Friday, July 4, Steilacoom’s Lafayette Street will close down to recognize and celebrate the independence of America with a spirited, community-wide celebration. The event starts at 9:00 a.m. with a fun run and opening of the street fair. Shortly after, live music starts. Get the party started in the beer garden. The day continues with an ice cream social, street parade, flag raising ceremony, Tribal Museum tours, a family street dance and more, all leading up to the big firework finale presented over Puget Sound.
Destiny Harbor 4th of July Tours
The only thing better than watching the fireworks beachside is watching them boatside during a Destiny Harbor Tour. On Friday, July 4, Destiny Harbor Tours will board in Gig Harbor and set out toward Ruston Way to catch the fireworks display during the Tacoma Freedom Fair. Enjoy the show without having to deal with traffic or crowds as you glide across the clear, glistening water of the Puget Sound. The Destiny Harbor 4th of July tours are popular, so be sure and reserve your seat on the boat today. Tickets range in price from $30-$45. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.
No need to throw your own party this 4th of July, just join the fun at one of the many Independence Day celebrations happening across Pierce County.
