Barbeques, fireworks, swimming—there are many reasons to love the Fourth of July. Make new memories this year with fresh traditions in Kent, Washington.
1. Fill your day with family activities at Lake Meridian. The Fourth of July Splash (Noon-11 p.m.) offers a family-friendly celebration, including tasty food, bounce houses, games, live performances, a pie eating contest and fireworks. Kiddos can get their wiggles out on the playground, plus swimming and stunning views of Mount Rainier for all!
Don’t leave early. The fireworks finale will light up the sky over Lake Meridian at dusk. Personal fireworks aren’t permitted.
Note: Parking at Lake Meridian Park for the Fourth of July Splash is by permit only. Catch a convenient shuttle at three locations: Kent Fire Station 75, Kentwood High School and Mattson Middle School.
2. Explore the Kent Food Trails. Nibble, sample or devour—it’s your choice. Nothing pairs better with a national holiday than tasting truly delicious and authentic fare. Taste your way along one (or all!) of five self-guided food trails in Kent. And if you’re hungry for more, enter to win an Edible Escape to Kent! Note: check restaurant hours before you go.
3. Shop and sample at Kent Station. You may have the day off, but Kent Station is open for business July 4. Discover more than 50 retail stores and a multiplex movie theater.
Once you get your fill of summer sales, fill up at one of Kent Station’s dining destinations. The Fourth is the ideal occasion for some al fresco dining. Pull up a patio chair at Agave Cocina and Cantina, Reds Wine Bar and Craft Beer or Banyan Tree.
4. Hit the trails. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we think of the Fourth of July as the official start of summer. Spend the day outdoors celebrating that bright (and sometimes elusive) orb in the sky. Kent has miles of paved trails and connections to many more. Explore on foot or bike via the Kent Valley Loop, including the Interurban and Green River trails.
Find out about more events in Kent.