Looking for the best ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in Seattle this Saturday? Whether you’re hoping to catch dazzling fireworks over Lake Union, cheer on a kid-friendly parade in West Seattle, enjoy live music, or spend the day at one of the city’s festive community events, there’s no shortage of ways to mark Independence Day.
Here are five of the top things to do this Fourth of July weekend, with options for families, friends, and visitors alike.
One of the biggest ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in Seattle is Seafair’s annual fireworks show over Lake Union. The free event runs from 3 to 11 p.m., with festivities at both Lake Union Park and Gas Works Park. Visitors can enjoy food vendors, live music and entertainment; fireworks begin around 10:15 p.m. If you’re planning to go, expect heavy crowds and very limited parking—and for entry to Gas Works Park, you must reserve your (free) ticket on the Seafair website in advance.
West Seattle 4th of July Kids Parade
All kids and their families are invited to dress in festive garb for a short parade from Sunset Ave to the celebration at Hamilton Viewpoint Park. Once at the park, all ages can enjoy free activities (such as sack races!) as well as food trucks. The parade kicks off at 10 am and the party in the park finishes by 1 pm.
July 4th at the Swedish Club
If you want to guarantee a good viewpoint of the fireworks, you can get tickets for the all-ages 4th of July party at the Swedish Club. The festivities begin at 5:00 pm and continue through the fireworks show over Lake Union. There will be free ice cream and popcorn, food available for purchase, a movie for kids, and live music from Graceland Manila, Seattle’s premier Elvis tribute band.
View the fireworks from Sky View Observatory
Another great spot for viewing the fireworks is atop Seattle’s highest observation deck. It’s an all-ages event starting at 8 pm, with final entry allowed at 10 pm. There will be cocktails and food available to purchase.
41st Annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center
This may be the most patriotic event in Seattle this weekend. Every July 4th, Seattle Center hosts the annual Naturalization Ceremony. The public is welcome to watch over 250 candidates be sworn in as new citizens of the United States of America. The event starts at 1:00 p.m. at the Fisher Pavilion; expect multiple live performances and tugging of the heartstrings.
