:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64661375/SeafairFireworks.0.jpg)
For those staying in town for the 4th of July, there is no shortage of great options for fantastic food, summery drinks, and great views of the fireworks. From the signature displays at Gas Works Park to family-friendly celebrations on the Eastside, we’ve rounded up some of the best bets for Independence Day.
Seafair Summer 4th
Easily the most famous of Seattle’s firework shows, the display from Gas Works Park has consistently been rated one of the best in the country. This year adds an additional 21-and-over location with a separate display at South Lake Union Park. Reserved seating is available, and both locations offer expansive beer gardens to quench your thirst. Tickets range from $40-60.
Gas Works Park, 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103 and South Lake Union Park, 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Sky High 4th of July at Sky View Observatory
The Sky View Observatory downtown will be hosting a exclusive party with a birds-eye view of the city’s fireworks displays. In addition to live music and the entrance fee, each ticket includes dinner and a festive cocktail, with menu items ranging from chicken wings and hot dogs to margherita pizza. There will also be open-bar access to house beer, wine and prosecco. Tickets are $110 for 21+ and $90 for youth and designated drivers.
700 Fourth Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Bothell 4th of July Freedom Festival
All-you-can-eat pancakes, anyone? Bothell’s 4th of July celebration kicks off bright and early (8:30 a.m.) with a complimentary pancake breakfast at the Downtown Fire Station, followed by a children’s parade. The main parade starts at noon, coinciding with the Food Truck Festival at Northshore Senior Center just a couple blocks away. Face painting, food trucks, bouncy houses and a pie-eating contest are just some of the afternoon shenanigans. Admission is free.
Main St & 104th Ave NE, Bothell, WA 98011
MBar 4th of July Party
For the third year in a row, South Lake Union’s MBar will be hosting an upscale Independence Day party on the rooftop patio, starting at 7p.m., featuring a mezze buffet from Chef Jason Stratton of “Top Chef” fame and a number of cocktail specials. In addition to music and epic views of the lake and surrounding fireworks displays, wine and champagne will also be pouring all night. Patio party is 21+ only. Tickets start at $125 and the buffet dinner is included.
400 Fairview Ave N 14th Floor, Seattle, WA 98109
Foam 5K at Haller Park
Those looking for a little more activity can head over to Arlington on July 4 for a brisk 5K run through red, white and blue foam, starting at 10 a.m.. Runners take off along the river, making their way through multiple foam stations, accompanied by a DJ blasting music. In addition to a t-shirt and foam dance party, each participant’s efforts will be rewarded with a voucher for wood fired pizza or craft beer following the event. Note that registration begins at 9 a.m. the morning of the event. Tickets are $40.
1100 West Ave, Arlington, WA 98223
Bellevue Family 4th
The largest event on Seattle’s Eastside, Bellevue’s 4th of July celebration kicks off with a morning Dog Jog and Walk at Ashwood Park. From 2 p.m. on, live music, inflatables and a variety of family-friendly entertainment will be available, including an outdoor food court. This is also a good opportunity to try some of the Eastside’s prominent eateries, including Facing East and Black Bottle (call for holiday hours).
Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 NE 4th St, Bellevue, WA 98004
4th of July Splash at Lake Meridian Park
12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Despite the name, there’s not a whole lot of water involved in Kent’s big Independence Day celebration. Instead, bouncy houses, giant Jenga, food booths, and a good, old-fashioned pie-eating contest are some of the event’s main pulls. There’s also an eclectic lineup of performers from noon to 9:30 p.m. The fireworks extravaganza will take place right at 10 p.m. on the lake shore. Admission is free.
14800 SE 272nd St, Kent, WA 98030
