Ring in the Summer in style and celebrate the true values of our country with the old-fashioned 4th of July celebrations on adorable San Juan Island. Where else will you find a parade within walking distance of your hotel, two fireworks displays, log rolling and pie eating contests, as well as dancing into the night on the shores of the glistening Salish Sea?
It all starts at 10:30 in the morning where in Friday Harbor pulls out all the stops with the cutest small-town parade ever. After you’ve fill up on candy tossed from the floats, head up to the grounds of the San Juan Historical Museum, the former homestead of James King, to enjoy the 4th of July Pig War Community Picnic, live music and tons of kids’ activities.
Next visit the historic resort of Roche Harbor on the north end of San Juan Island and their extensive 4th of July celebration. They feature kids’ games at the Pool Lawn and good ol’ fashioned Donut Eating Contest at the West Lawn, followed by the not-to-be-missed Blindfolded Dinghy Race and a Log Rolling contest at the Wharf Building. Their fireworks start at sundown.
Back in Friday Harbor it’ll be time to get your dancing shoes on for live music at the Port until the sun sets and the fireworks begin.
Insider Tip: if you are done with the crowds when the fireworks start, head out to 4th of July Beach in American Camp National Historical Park and watch not only Friday Harbor’s, but also Lopez Island’s fireworks while sitting on the beach and listening to the waves and sea lions. It’s an amazing way to experience the light show.
