The Fourth of July is full of celebrations and fun. Every year we have the opportunity to remember the signing of the Declaration of Independence, confirming our nation’s freedom from Great Britain. This year, as many of the COVID-19 safety standards change, it’s still a little unclear what Independence Day will look like. Even so, there are fun 4th of July events, including fireworks taking place in Benton, Franklin and Walla Walla Counties.
Benton County
River of Fire
Columbia Park TriPlex Driving Range
2701 Paul Parish Dr.
Kennewick
River of Fire takes place on the evening of Sunday, July 4. Kennewick’s Columbia Park TriPlex Driving Range is hosting this free event. Gates open at 7 p.m., and the firework show starts at 10 p.m.
Celebrating Freedom Concert
John Dam Plaza
815 Jadwin Ave.
Richland
The Mid-Columbia Symphony hosts a free concert at the Hapo Community Stage in Richland’s John Dam Plaza. From 6 until 8:30 p.m., the program will feature many patriotic songs, including favorites like the Star-Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful. Bring chairs and blankets to sit on. Visit the Facebook event page for more information.
4th of July Community Celebration
Downtown Benton City
Benton City Chamber of Commerce hosts their 4th of July Community Celebration with many activities for the whole family.
On Saturday, July 3, the celebration begins in City Park with breakfast. From 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., purchase biscuits and gravy for $5. At 9 a.m., there will be a Flag Ceremony including a 21 gun salute, guest speakers and the National Anthem. At 11 a.m., the Kids Parade will take place. All participants must meet and register 30 minutes prior at the United Methodist Church parking lot at the corner of Horne and 9th. Kids are welcome to decorate bikes, trikes, scooters, horses, wagons, and strollers for their walk down 9th street. After the parade, kids are invited back to the main stage in City Park for ice cream and trophies. You must be registered and have a wristband to participate in this event.
On Sunday, July 4, The Benton City Lion’s Club hopes to put on a firework show. Currently, they are looking for the volunteers necessary to make it happen. View the Facebook event to see updates regarding the show and other events or to volunteer.
Franklin County
4th of July Parade
Rd. 170 and Bailie Blvd.
Basin City
Basin City’s annual 4th of July Parade is on Saturday, July 3. The procession starts at 10 a.m. but come early to grab a good seat and bring chairs and blankets to sit on. The best seats will be along Rd. 170 and Bailie Blvd. between Hot Spot and Basin City Elementary School. Check out the Facebook event for more information.
Grand Old 4th of July Celebration
Pasco
This year, the City of Pasco is putting on their Grand Old 4th of July Celebration. The event begins on July 3 with a family bike ride at Riverview Park. Registration is required. On July 4, many events will be taking place between 8 a.m. and the evening firework show. These events include a fun run, brunch, a car show and more. Find more information and a detailed schedule of the day’s events on the City of Pasco’s website. The firework show starts at 10 p.m., with the gates opening at 6:30 p.m. at the Gesa Stadium.
Walla Walla County
Fourth of July in the Park
940 E Alder St.
Walla Walla
Walla Walla Union-Bulletin is hosting their annual, free Fourth of July in the Park celebration. This event is from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., on Sunday, July 4. Held in Pioneer Park, enjoy local music, entertainment, and food with the whole family.
Freedom Fest with Whiskey Creek Band
Annelise Michelle Photography
College Place High School
1755 S College Ave.
College Place
Freedom Fest with Whiskey Creek Band is an early Independence Day celebration happening on June 27 in College Place. Whiskey Creek Band plays live from 7 to 10 p.m., but gates open an hour before. Food trucks and vendors will be attending this event at College Place High School. After the music wraps up, stick around for the fun firework show. This event is free to the public.
While our state is supposed to open on June 30 fully, be sure to check back with all event organizers for any up-to-date changes as we get closer to the holiday. Wherever you celebrate this upcoming Independence Day, stay safe and have fun.
