By Alana Smith

There’s something enchanting about enjoying Independence Day the same way people have for decades, even if past generations weren’t able to Facebook their celebration “selfies.” It’s hard to beat spreading out a blanket and taking in some America the beautiful. 

Here in Eatonville, we’ll be celebrating our nation’s independence with dazzling fireworks displays. Though it might seem like a modern development, the origin of fireworks on the 4th of July dates back to 1777, when Philadelphia commemorated the one-year anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a parade, live music, and, you guessed it, fireworks. More than 200 years later, the Independence Day tradition is alive and well, with pyrotechnic shows that get bigger and better every year thanks to awe-inspiring technological advances.

Our annual 4^th of July Celebration leaves revelers coming back for more, and this year boasts an especially unique lineup of events including breakfast on the morning of the 4^th at the Visitors Center to benefit Relay for Life.

But, the Independence Day celebrating in Eatonville really starts at the July 3 festivities. Throughout the evening there are activities, great food, vendors and inflatable activities along with live music by The Brothers Rowe, Eatonville’s own Dancers, and the military’s 1st Corp Army Band. The event truly has something for everyone, and of course the hottest fireworks around.

Plus, all of the events take place with Mount Rainier as a backdrop, allowing event goers to take in one of America’s finest mountains. 

The annual Parade is a hometown tradition that draws spectators to Eatonville to celebrate Independence Day. There’s a special closeness in our small town; we see this when there’s a need in our community people are there to help. Each year this event relies entirely on Town and Community donations to put on the event, people are always ready to contribute, and the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the 3rd &4^th of July this year, with the guidance of retirees Audrey and Karen.

These events are important to get communities together, and the impact goes beyond tradition and entertainment. It’s also about the economy. Everybody wants to celebrate the Fourth of July, and our annual event draws more than 3,000 people to Eatonville and has great economic impact on businesses in our area. Parade and non-food vendor applications are still available to pick up at the Eatonville Community Center.

Schedule of Events:

3^rd July festivities start at 5:00

Fireworks start at Dusk

Parade starts at noon on the 4th

Please note:

• All school rules apply on the school grounds during the fireworks event on the 3^rd
• No Alcohol, No Smoking
• Parade route streets will be shut down at 11:45 on July 4th

The Chamber of Commerce would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the businesses, individuals and organizations that have helped make this year’s event possible.

Photo Gallery of past 4th of July Celebrations in Eatonville 

Photos courtesy of Karelina Resnick, and the Mountain News-WA.