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*Editor’s Note: This article is for 2016 Fourth of July events.

In fireworks parlance, “a tourbillion is a type of star that spins in the sky and gives off large quantities of gold, silver, or white light.” This is not to be confused with a titanium salute, sky rocket, rising tails, or Saturn shells, all of which make the 4th of July a delight to behold.

lucky dog casinoPerhaps the most logically named pyrotechnic is the idea of “safe and sane,” a term used for fireworks that do not have aerial effects or explode. In Washington, state legal fireworks can only be used on certain days and times according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

A visit to Hood Canal can include scenic hiking in the Olympic National Forest, or lounging on the plentiful Hood Canal waterfront. These enjoyable activities can also include fireworks shows. While there won’t be a Hoodsport extravaganza this year, there are still options for experiencing a tourbillion stars over Hood Canal.

hood canal fireworks
Turn Independence Day into a pancake-filled fundraiser thanks to New Community Church of Union. Photo courtesy: Alderbrook Country Store.

On Saturday, July 2 the New Community Church of Union will host their annual Fourth of July Free Pancake and Waffle Feed. Take breakfast to a whole new level from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Alderbrook Country Store at 1031 E McReavy Road in Union. The event is free, but donations are gladly accepted.

Also on Saturday, visit the annual Tahuya Day Festival and Parade. Happening at 14880 North Shore Road in Tahuya, the 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. event includes live music, local artisans, face painting, train rides, bounce houses, a scholarship raffle, and a festive 1:00 p.m. parade.

Sunday July 3 is Thunder on the Canal at the Alderbrook Resort. This all day extravaganza is free for Alderbrook guests and $5 for visitors; kids 12 and under are free.

alderbrook fireworks
Thunder on the Canal is Alderbrook’s annual all day 4th of July celebration. Photo courtesy: Alderbrook Resort.

The day starts at 11:00 a.m. with live ukulele music and patio dining. At 7:00 p.m. there is an oyster-eating contest and live music with fireworks beginning at approximately 10:20 p.m. Off-site parking is available to visitors from 3:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m.

Want to enjoy Thunder on the Canal as a VIP? Contact Hood Canal Event’s to join their VIP Fireworks Party by calling 360-898-1500 or info@hoodcanalevents.com. Reservations are required and include “dinner by Kern’s Kitchen Gourmet Streetfood, complimentary beer/wine/featured cocktail, music, friends, premium seating, kayaks, and safe/convenient event parking.”

Traveling to visit family or enjoy a sunny summer getaway? Don’t miss out on the fireworks while you’re away from home. There are lists of shows, festivals, and Independence Day fun available online to insure a celebration no matter where you end up.

Enjoy getting out and about on Independence Day, but don’t forget that our state has comprehensive regulations regarding fireworks use.

4th of july parades
The Tahuya Day Festival and Parade is family-friendly fun as well as civic historical pride. Photo courtesy: Tahuya Day Parade.

Historically, fireworks have been used to celebrate our Independence since 1777. Quotes from newspapers of the day report that in Philadelphia, “The evening was closed with the ring of bells, and at night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks (which began and concluded with thirteen rockets) on the Commons, and the city was beautifully illuminated… Everything was conducted with the greatest order and decorum, and the face of joy and gladness was universal.”

Let the same be true more than 200 years later for you and your family, wherever you may spend the holiday.

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