The Fourth of July will be celebrated with an array of exciting events in Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor. From fun runs to parades to picnics, this annual holiday is celebrated by all the elements that make our community great. Check out the schedule below:
Firecracker 5000 5K
The 11th annual Firecracker 5000 5K is all set to go for this Tuesday, July 4. The route will remain the same, beginning at the Friday Harbor Suites, 680 Spring Street.
The course is for anyone wanting to start the Holiday off with a little exercise and features some of the islands flattest terrain, except for the hills.
On-site registration begins at 7 a.m. and ends at 7:45 a.m., race starts promptly at 8 a.m. It costs $12 per adult and $5 for kids under 16. A portion of the proceeds will go to support the Friday Harbor fireworks display.
The event happens each year with special thanks to Friday Harbor Suites, Kings Market and San Juan Island Fitness. For more information, contact San Juan Island Fitness at 378-4449.
The route starts from Friday Harbor Suites, down Price Street to Park Street (turn left), up to Marguerite (turn left), then out and back on Lampard Road, and back to Friday Harbor Suites.
America, All We Share
10:30 a.m. – The Chamber of Commerce parade theme for 2017 is “America, All that We Share. Celebrating our community and the common ideals that connect us.” While observing America’s independence, the parade will honor the island community and the amazing people and organizations that enrich our lives. Two Kenmore Air Express Caravan planes will fly directly over the parade route to welcome the crowd.
Joining the celebration will be the University of Washington Husky Alumni Marching Band who consider the Friday Harbor July 4th parade a highlight to their season. This 60 member ensemble is currently celebrating their 50th Anniversary. The award winning Keith Highlanders Pipe Band returns by popular demand. Performing internationally and throughout the Northwest, this band features the best in traditional Scottish piping.
Friday Harbor’s own spirited Friday Harbor Community Band, under the musical direction of Cart Nelsen and Dave Eden, will feature a collaboration of both student and community musicians showcasing the pride of our island.
This year’s grand marshal will be Dr. Carolyn Haugen and “Citizens of Honor” will be Dr. John Geyman and Emily Reed Geyman.
Each has made significant community contributions and has shared so much of their time and talent with San Juan County.
The route marches down Spring Street toward First Street. The Friday Harbor Presbyterian Church has reserved seating available to those and their accompanied parties, who have difficulty standing. To reserve your seat call the church at 378-4544 or email fhpresbyterian@interisland.net.
Pig War Picnic
11:15 a.m. – Immediately following the parade, the Pig War Picnic sponsored by the Kiwanis, will be held at the San Juan Historical Museum grounds on Price Street. Besides a barbecue (adults $10, children $5). The meal includes pulled pork sandwiches or Kosher dogs, coleslaw, chips pickle and a drink. For those with a sweet tooth, fudge sundaes are $3. At 11:30 a.m. the picnic events kick off with the Keith Highlanders Pipe Band, 11:45 a.m. opening ceremonies, at noon Mike Vouri, then at 12:15 p.m. One More Time Band. At 1 p.m. the parade awards will be announced, followed by music by The Chameleons. 2 p.m. a donut eating contest and 50/50, followed by the Chameleons again at 2:15 p.m.
6 p.m. – Rock the Dock, hosted by the Port of Friday Harbor, will feature the popular local band The Chameleons this year. The dance will take place in the port parking lot below the Yacht Club. Admission is $5, food and beverages available for purchase.
Fireworks, sponsored by the Chamber, Kings, and the Town of Friday Harbor.
10 p.m. to dark – Head to the town’s waterfront to enjoy the spectacular fireworks display over the harbor.
Roche Harbor Resort Events:
Sponsored by Roche Harbor Resort at 248 Reuben Memorial Drive
9 a.m. – Family 3.3K Fun Run
10:30 p.m. – Kids games at Pool Lawn
12:30 p.m. – Doughnut eating at West Lawn
2 p.m. – UW Alumni marching band
2:30 p.m. – Keith Highlanders Pipe Band
3:30 p.m. – Blindfolded Dinghy Race
4 p.m. – Log rolling at Wharf Building
10:30 p.m. – Fireworks show in the Harbor at dusk
