No matter how you choose to mark America’s birthday, Kent is the place to be on the Fourth of July. Spend the day and evening at one of the region’s biggest family-fun festivals, chow down on a super-hot hot dog, or treat yourself to some retail therapy.
Make a splash from noon to night
The Fourth of July Splash (Noon-10:30 p.m.) on the shores of Lake Meridian is the ultimate Independence Day bash. Fill up at the food booths, enter the pie-eating contest, take a turn or 10 at the bouncy house and join in the old-time games. Live music and entertainment will be on tap, along with all the other fun that Lake Meridian Park offers—from splashing in the lake to trekking the trails. Just a reminder…the Fourth of July Splash is the only legal way to enjoy fireworks in Kent, so stick around. The sky lights up beginning at 10 p.m.
Keep your cool at the spray park
The Fourth of July marks the real start of summer in the Pacific Northwest, and Town Square Plaza spray park is a great spot to keep the heat at bay. If you really want to keep your cool, stroll to nearby Kent Station and grab a shake or sundae from Cold Stone Creamery.
Celebrate in style at Kent Station
If you’re not up for all the holiday hoopla, spend the Fourth at this urban village of food, entertainment and shopping.
- Jumpstart the day with an Americano from Dilettante Mocha Café.
- Catch a summer blockbuster stretched out in a cushy recliner at the 14-screen Kent AMC Theatre.
- Satisfy your all-American appetite with a hamburger and fries from Johnny Rockets, or choose from an eclectic array of other dining options.
- Cruise the holiday sales—stores are open 11 a.m.–6 p.m. If you’re looking to log some extra Fitbit steps, stop in at Road Runner Sports for new gear and to sign up for the July 15 Adventure Run.