Poulsbo's July 3 celebration back for its 19th year

POULSBO — Noon tomorrow will signal the start once again of a uniquely Poulsbo celebration: the Third of July.

The 19th annual event will fill Poulsbo’s downtown with the colorful revelries of independence. The Drive, Shakeh, the Bremerton Symphony and the Locust Street Taxi Band are all set to take stage throughout the day. Pizza, watermelon and ice cream will be devoured beginning at 3 p.m. in eating competitions. At 6:45 p.m. a ceremony with airplanes flying overhead will commemorate the festivities and make way for a dazzling show in the sky at dusk.

“Everything’s ready to go and we’re excited,” said Third of July organizer Sandra Peterson. “We just need money.”

The theme is one reported nationwide: Towns are having trouble filling their firework quota with a slow economy and lackluster donations. Peterson said many businesses and individuals in the community have come through to lend a hand, and she’s hoping more do so, even after the event. A major source of worry is the fireworks barge, which totals at $3,800. As of Monday, Peterson thought the cost may be one she’d have to pay out of her own pocketbook.

“The barge is major, I’m very concerned,” she said.

Adding to the need for financial backing are portable restrooms and band fees. Though the event will be held tomorrow, donations will be accepted even after the pyrotechnics are lit.

To donate, call (360) 779-2121.

But as the event draws near, Peterson said Little Norway’s offbeat party will still shine — especially in a forecasted 77 degrees. Also on the menu: local organization and non-profit vendor booths, kid drummers and a color guard/honor guard performance.

For bus schedule and road closure information, visit www.fireworksonthefjord.com.

Join the old fashioned fun!

The Keyport annual 4th of July pancake breakfast and parade will be held July 4 from 8 a.m. to noon at its new location at the Keyport Bible Church. Pancakes, ham, eggs, juice and coffee will be served up hot for $5. Military, seniors and kids over the age of 6 eat for $4.50, children ages 2-6 for $3 and those under 2 years old eat free.

Following the morning’s breakfast, a parade will fill the streets at 1 p.m. Bring a bike and march through town with the fire engines, ambulances and a variety of other vehicles. After the parade, a smattering of free hamburgers, hot dogs, cotton candy and more will be at the Keyport Bible Church at 2 p.m. Also find carnival games, relay races, pie eating, watermelon seed spitting and more.

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