Fourth of July is around the corner. Creating some of those core memories with your kids can be such a fun time. The Pacific Northwest is such a cool place to celebrate Independence Day. Now a lot of municipalities have decided not to do fireworks. However, there are several other activities that are fun for the whole family.
Neighborhood Events
A lot of neighborhoods have their own kid parades. If yours doesn’t, why don’t you plan your own this year? Throw some streamers on your bikes or wagons, grab some friends, and march around the block.
This musical event takes place on the banks of the Willamette River and features local and national blues artists. There are fireworks after the concert too. The event is a ticketed event. Children 12 and under are free at the festival (one child per paid accompanying adult). Also, this firework show is visible at other nearby locations.
Celebrate Independence Day with some good old-fashioned carnival fun. Celebrate the holiday with a bang at the annual Oaks Park 4th of July Spectacular! Admission includes all-day access to the rides, free first-come, first-serve picnic grounds, and Portland’s favorite fireworks display over the Willamette River. These special event tickets include rides and fireworks, and they suggest you purchase tickets early.
The Fort Vancouver Historic Reserve will be filled with celebration and fun, with a full day of activities for families and people of all ages. It is the weekend before the 4th of July. Saturday, July 1, 2023, 11 am – 8 pm at Fort Vancouver Historic Reserve. It’s free and open to all. Picnic in the Park will feature two stages with live music and entertainment, games on the lawn, magicians, face painting, and fun for the whole family.
Around Town
Want to enjoy the fireworks year after year without any crowds? Head to any number of spots in Portland and watch the fireworks from afar. Mount Tabor is a classic spot to watch fireworks across the Portland city view.
Coastal Events
The beach is a wonderful place to see fireworks and be a part of parades or other events. Rockaway Beach has an annual parade and fireworks show. Lincoln City has live music beginning at noon. Lincoln City also has a spectacular firework display over Siletz Bay at dusk (approximately 10:00-10:30 pm). And if you want to drive a little farther south, then Yachats has the Le De Da Parade and Fireworks show. The parade is full of whimsical people-powered fun. The Yachats La De Da Parade will begin at noon. The Fireworks will start at sundown and are launched over the mouth of the Yachats River.
Hopefully, you have been inspired to start planning your 4th celebrations. Here are a few more tips if you want to host your own event.
How to Prep for the Fourth of July
Plan your celebration
Decide what kind of celebration you want to have. Will you host a barbecue, attend a fireworks display, or have a picnic in the park? Planning ahead will help you organize the necessary supplies and activities.
Decorate your space
Show your patriotic spirit by decorating your home or party area with red, white, and blue. Hang up flags, bunting, and banners, and place themed decorations around the space.
Prepare food and drinks
Fourth of July is often associated with outdoor barbecues and picnics. Plan your menu and make a shopping list for all the food and beverages you’ll need. Consider traditional favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, corn on the cob, and refreshing beverages. Or shake it up with your own twist!
Set up activities
Provide entertainment for your guests by planning outdoor games and activities. Set up a backyard volleyball or badminton net, play corn hole, organize a water balloon fight, or have a three-legged race.
Be mindful of safety
Ensure the safety of your guests, especially if you’re hosting a fireworks display. Follow local regulations and guidelines for handling and lighting fireworks and have a designated area for viewing. Keep a first aid kit handy and be aware of any fire hazards.
Do you have your plans made yet? Any traditions that you have each year? Are you a firework family? Tell us about your favorite things to do for Independence Day!
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.
