July Fourth is just around the corner, and everyone in our office is ready for a big fireworks show. We’re fortunate enough to live in Vancouver, a city with plenty of options for Independence Day fireworks in the area.
Before we get to our list of fireworks shows in the area, we should mention some regulations for Vancouver, Washington and Clark County. As of October 2016, the sale and use of fireworks within Vancouver city limits is banned. Fines start at $500 for violating this law, so it’s a lot cheaper to just catch a show put on by professionals.
If you’re still set on hosting your own fireworks celebration, it’s still legal to use fireworks on certain days and times outside of city limits, and in unincorporated areas of Clark County. Regulations vary by hour, date, and area, so check out this webpage for the most up-to-date information on where fireworks are allowed in Clark County.
Here are our top picks for fireworks shows and Independence Day events in the Vancouver, Washington area:
The biggest and best fireworks show in the area. Due to the local fireworks ban, the City of Vancouver is going all-out this year and planning the largest fireworks display that Vancouver has seen in decades. Bring the family, some blankets, some chairs, and some snacks. Alcohol and pets are not allowed, though, so leave those at home. There will be no food vendors, beer garden, or live entertainment this year, but there will be a heck of a fireworks show.
Time: The fireworks display is from 10:05pm to 10:25pm. Gates open at 8am, but the organizers suggest you arrive around 6pm.
Location: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, 612 E Reserve St., Vancouver, WA 98661
Admission: Free. Donations will be accepted to support next year’s show, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Lower Columbia Veterans Coalition.
Ridgefield 4th of July Celebration
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, we suggest traveling a few miles up I-5 to Ridgefield. For over 100 years, this community has honored Independence Day with a town-wide celebration. There will be a fireworks display, but the fun goes all day. Start with a pancake breakfast, go for a fun run, and watch the parade. There will be a hamburger barbecue and a pie-eating contest in the afternoon if you need to replenish some calories from the fun run. Check out live music all day and browse some craft vendors while you wait for the fireworks show.
Time: Festivities start at 7am and run all day. The fireworks show is at 10:15pm. See this page for a full schedule of events.
Location: Downtown Ridgefield, Washington
Admission: Free
Camas-Washougal 4th of July Concert and Fireworks
Another option for an out-of-town fireworks adventure is a few miles to the east at the Port of Camas-Washougal. This event features live music, a beer garden, food vendors, and a fireworks show.
Time: Live music begins at 6pm, fireworks at 10pm.
Location: Washougal Waterfront Park, 56 S 1st St, Washougal WA 98671
Admission: Free
If you’re in the mood for a trip across state lines and some blues music, Portland has the festival for you. This annual festival runs from July 4th to July 7th this year, and includes a fireworks show on the 4th. If you want to party all day and see some great bands, this is the Independence Day celebration for you. This festival also boasts the largest fireworks show in Oregon.
Time: July 4th-7th, 10:30am to 1:30am.
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204
Admission: 4-day passes start at $40. Single day tickets are available for $15 in advance, $20 at the gate.
What could be more American than seeing a baseball game on July 4th? The closest professional team is the Portland Pickles, and they happen to have a double-header on the fourth. At 1:05pm they face off against the Gresham GreyWolves, and at 7:05pm they play the Cowlitz Black Bears. Stick around after the night game for a fireworks show.
Time: 1:05pm vs. the Gresham GreyWolves, 7:05pm vs. the Cowlitz Black Bears. Fireworks following the conclusion of the night game.
Location: Walker Stadium, 4727 SE 92nd Ave., Portland, OR 97266
Admission: Tickets vary from $5-$13 per person, per game.
There you have it – five great options for your Independence Day celebration. Have a happy and safe 4th of July from everyone at Dr. Bowyer’s office, and don’t forget to give us a call the next time you need a checkup!