Editor’s note: You have reached an article from 2016. For the most current 4th of July information, click here.
Nothing cures Monday blues like a birthday party. This year, instead of cake in the break room enjoy a national holiday to celebrate Independence Day.
In between stocking up on supplies for the BBQ, sparklers for the after-party, sunscreen for day and bug spray for night, take a few minutes to find a fireworks display to end the evening. There will be shows state-wide with many options close to home as well.
1. South Sound Speedway
Saturday, July 2
4:45 – 11:00 p.m.
If fireworks alone aren’t loud enough for you, head to the South Sound Speedway in Rochester for a spectacular show following the Wes Rhodes Firecracker 126 and races including hobby stocks, mini stocks, vintage modified’s and bumblebees.
Gates open at 4:45 p.m. on race days with races starting at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks afterwards. Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $18.00 for teens, $10 for kids 15 and under, below 5 are free. The Speedway is cash only so come prepared.
2. Lacey Fireworks Spectacular and Freedom Concert
Sunday, July 3
5:00 – 11:00 p.m
Honoring not only our nation’s birthday but the City of Lacey’s 50th anniversary, the free Lacey Fireworks Spectacular and Freedom Concert includes live music at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m., fireworks at 10:00 p.m., and dancing to a live DJ until 11:00 p.m. There will also be food vendors, face painting, and a bounce-house to tire out the little ones.
Bring blankets and folding chairs to Rainier Vista Park at 5475 45th Ave SE, the corner of 45th SE and Ruddell Road. Alcohol and personal fireworks are prohibited.
3. Tumwater’s Artesian Family Festival and Thunder Valley Fireworks Show
Monday, July 4
6:00 – 10:45 p.m.
Sponsored by the Tumwater Downtown Association, the bustling Artesian Family Festival and Thunder Valley Fireworks Show is held on the Tumwater Valley Golf Course driving range. Lots of activities, food options, music, and games are available at this free event. Parking is $10 a car and with more than 10,000 attendees last year, spots fill quickly.
No pets, alcohol, or personal fireworks.
4. JBLM’s Freedom Fest
Monday, July 4
12:00 – 10:30 p.m.
Celebrate all day long with our nation’s hero soldiers and their families at JBLM’s Freedom Fest. Details on accessing the base can be found on the event’s website, along with an hourly breakdown of entertainment options. There are carnival rides, a car show, live music, and activities for kids of all ages. Admission is free and parking is conveniently facilitated by shuttle bus. *Please note that this event is only for military families.
No weapons, alcohol, personal fireworks, or pets. Bleacher seating is available so blankets and chairs are optional (and unwieldy in the crowds!).
5. Capital Lakefair
Sunday, July 17
10:00 p.m.
The traditional end to a fabulous week of Capital Lakefair events, the Grand Finale Fireworks Display takes place on the shores of Capital Lake. Bring chairs and blankets to enjoy this annual delight.
For a list of other Lakefair events like the car show, Battle of the Bands, Grand Parade, Funtastic Carnival, Lakefair Voice contest, volleyball tournament and 3K and 5K runs, visit their constantly updated website.
With personal fireworks banned in Lacey and Olympia, put one—or all of these!—celebrations on your calendar to keep the summer popping.
