Parades, slug races, live music and fireworks planned for the Fourth
Issaquah’s Down Home Fourth of July and Heritage Day festival kicks off the star-spangled holiday.
The free celebration begins at 11 a.m. in the historic Olde Town Issaquah with the annual Kids ‘n’ Pets Parade at Rainier Boulevard North and Northwest Dogwood Street.
“You can watch the colorful entries along Front Street or dress up your bike, scooter, wagon, dog, chicken, guinea pig or other family members and participate,” according to a city of Issaquah press release.
Participants can reserve a space online. Same-day registration begins at 10 a.m. at the Holt Building, located at 425 Rainier Blvd. N.
Afterward, activities like pony rides and three-legged races are set in Veterans’ Memorial Field, located at 120 Second Ave. NE.
Other activities include the Slug Speed Race and Beauty Pageant — participants must provide their own slug — and a pie-eating contest.
The Issaquah Depot Museum invites the public to take a trip back to the past during the 15th annual Heritage Day celebration, also after the parade.
The museum is located at 78 First Ave. NE.
Fireworks
Sammamish’s annual Independence Day celebration, which began in 2007, will resume July 4 activities from 6-10:30 p.m. in the Upper and Lower Commons.
Fireworks begin at 10 p.m.
Parking is available, though the lots closest to City Hall will charge $5 per car. For a map of parking, visit www.sammamish.us/files/picture/16994.jpg.
Festivities are scheduled in each area of the Commons leading up to the fireworks display. The trail between the two areas will remain open.
The Upper Commons entertainment includes live music with a classic rock performance by the Randy Linder Band and tunes from the ’50s and ’60s with Wally and the Beaves.
There will be bouncy houses and other children’s activities in the Lower Commons. It costs $5 for unlimited access to the bouncy toys.
Food vendors will be at each location.
The Upper Commons is located at 801 228th Ave. SE. The Lower Commons is located at 550 222nd Place SE.
