The annual Friday Harbor 4th of July celebration is a spectacular display of community festivity! This year, the theme for the fabulous parade in honor of the National Parks centennial is “America the Beautiful.” There will be many forms of joyous celebration throughout Friday Harbor, which is a wonderful place to enjoy freedom right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, looking out the expanse of nature before you. You can look out to sea for ships decorated in red, white, and blue regalia and then look up to the sky for a fantastic display of fireworks! Hear the cannons go off at daybreak to start the day, and then get ready to continue the party well into the evening. Here are just a few of the best ways to celebrate a Friday Harbor 4th of July.
Friday Harbor 4th of July Parade
One of the most awaited and most spectacular events to celebrate Friday Harbor 4th of July is the parade! This year, the parade kicks off at 10:30 am and will include live music and dancing. There will be a sea of red, white, and blue as well as historic garb and exciting marching configurations. For this joyous display, you can set up a chair along the parade path and soak in all the sights and sounds as they move past. Be sure to get there early to procure the best spot!
Pig War Picnic at the Historical Museum
A rich Friday Harbor 4th of July tradition is the Pig War Picnic, which will begin at 11:30 am on the 4th of July. The event will be held at the San Juan Island Historical Museum at 405 Price Street, and admission is $5. At this historic endeavor, there will be live music, a pie-eating contest, a cakewalk, kid’s activities, and the self-professed best barbecue in town. We’re talking pulled pork sandwiches, kosher dogs, coleslaw, chips, and pickles to keep things traditional- along with a beer garden and hot fudge sundaes! The Pig War Picnic is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of San Juan Island and will take place following the community parade.
Rock the Dock Party
The Rock the Dock party and dance sponsored by the Rotary Club starts at 6 pm down by the Port. There will be food, drinks, and dancing that will last until the fireworks begin at dusk! This is a great way to let loose after a day full of celebration. Enjoy the beautiful scenery that the San Juan Islands have to offer while waiting for the fireworks to begin. Cuddle up with your love or dance it up with your friends as the sun sinks into the horizon.
Fireworks!
A true Friday Harbor 4th of July would not be complete without a fireworks display. Look to the sky around 10 pm for some electric explosions that will light up the darkness. Fireworks are not only a tradition but a way to celebrate with the entire community! We invite you into Friday Harbor to celebrate with us during this national holiday. Let freedom ring!
After the Festivities
After enjoying all the Friday Harbor 4th of July festivities, come back to Tucker House Inn for a restful night sleep. You will wake up to a homemade breakfast in the morning to rejuvenate and re-energize before embarking on your next San Juan Island adventure. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! For more information on what to do in Friday Harbor and the San Juan Islands, download our free vacation guide.
