Celebrate Independence Day in Tumwater

tumwater 4th of july parade
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tumwater auto spaThurston County residents flock to Tumwater for annual Independence Day festivities.  Tumwater has the title of the oldest permanent American settlement on Puget Sound, making it the perfect location to celebrate the nation’s birthday.  In 1845, Michael T. Simmons led American settlers to Tumwater Falls.  George Bush, one of the members of Simmons’ party, settled on some lush farmland.  Bush is credited with much of the local area’s history in hops farming.  (Read more about future plans for the brewery in this article.)

The community was named Tumwater in 1863 and became the launching point for other settlements in the Puget Sound area.

tumwater 4th of july parade
The 4th of July parade steps off in Tumwater at 11:00 a.m.

On July 4, thousands of people flock to the historic town at the mouth of the Deschutes River.  During the 4th of July festivities, families enjoy a parade followed by a family-friendly festival and extraordinary fireworks show.  It’s a wonderful community tradition.  Two other fireworks shows light off on July 3 meaning that families congregate in Tumwater for Independence Day events.  You can find a complete list of fireworks shows here.

Tumwater 27th Annual Independence Day Parade

Former Sea Gal, Stephanie Hemphill, serves as the Grand Marshal for the parade.  She exemplifies the theme, “We are the Champions!”  The parade begins on July 4th at 11:00 am at the corner of Capitol Boulevard and Lee Street.  The parade route moves south along Capitol to Israel Road.  The parade then turns west (right) onto Israel Road, continuing past Tumwater City Hall.  The festivities end at the intersection of Linderson Way and Israel Road.

More details about street closures during the parade can be found here.

14th Annual Tumwater Artesian Family Festival and Thunder Valley Fireworks Show

tumwater 4th of july parade
Citizens flock to Tumwater to celebrate Independence Day with a parade, family festival, and fireworks show.

Grab a blanket and stake out your family’s spot to watch an amazing fireworks show.  The festival is held at Tumwater Valley Golf Course.  Festival gates open at 6:00 p.m. on July 4.  The event features loads of family-friendly activities, all free!  Find music and games to entertain your crowd while you wait for nightfall.

Food vendors are on site to keep your stomach full, or bring along a picnic dinner.  Please remember that there is no alcohol, pets or barbecues permitted on site.

Festival entry is free but there is a $10 charge per car for parking.

The Thunder Valley Fireworks Show begins at 10:15 p.m. and is accompanied by music.

Let Tumwater entertain your family this 4th of July.  Celebrate Independence Day among the area’s largest festival.

 

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