If you’re like me, the 4th of July is all about community, good food, outdoor fun, and wrapping up the night with a sky full of color. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong South Sound local, Thurston County knows how to put on a show.

From lakeside launches to big community celebrations, here’s your guide to the best places to watch fireworks this Independence Day.

Tumwater’s Thunder Valley Fireworks Show

📍 Tumwater Valley Golf Course – Tumwater WA

This one’s a local favorite and for good reason. Tumwater puts on a full-day celebration that ends with a bang – literally. Live music, food trucks, family-friendly games, and one of the biggest firework displays in the county.

Local tip: Bring chairs or a blanket and arrive early. Parking fills fast and the vibes are high all night.

Lacey Fireworks Spectacular at Rainier Vista Park

📍 Rainier Vista Park – Lacey WA

Lacey hosts one of the most popular 4th of July events in the South Sound, featuring live entertainment, kids’ activities, and food vendors all day long. Fireworks cap off the night with an impressive display over the park.

Local tip: This is a great spot if you’ve got little ones. There’s plenty of open space to spread out and enjoy the show.

Tumwater Independence Day Parade

📍 Capitol Boulevard to Israel Road SW – Tumwater WA

A beloved tradition for over 30 years, the Tumwater Independence Day Parade brings out the full community spirit. Watch as local groups, veterans, classic cars, dance teams, and more make their way down Capitol Boulevard in a colorful celebration of freedom and small-town pride.

Local tip: Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot and bring folding chairs or a blanket for comfort.

🇺🇸 Take a Moment to Honor Local Heroes

Visit a Veterans Memorial in Thurston County

Before the fireworks light up the sky and the parades roll through the streets, the 4th of July is first and foremost a day of remembrance. It’s a time to honor the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.

If you’re spending the day around Thurston County, take a quiet moment to visit one of our local memorials. They’re powerful reminders of what Independence Day truly stands for.

Here are a few places where you can pay your respects:

Korean War Veterans Memorial
Medal of Honor Memorial
POW/MIA Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
World War II Memorial

Many of these are located within close proximity to downtown Olympia and Capitol Campus, making them easy to visit before or after community celebrations.

Whether it’s five minutes of reflection or a full visit, honoring our veterans is a meaningful way to start your 4th of July with heart.

🏡 Celebrate at Home

📍 Your own backyard

Skip the crowds and keep it cozy with a backyard BBQ, lawn games, and your own sparkler show. Fire up the grill, toss some cornhole, and enjoy red, white, and blue treats with the family.

Local tip: Add a playlist, glow sticks, and front yard chairs for a low-key fireworks watch party. Sometimes the best view is from your own porch.

🌟 Celebrate Local, Celebrate Together

The 4th of July in Thurston County is about more than fireworks. It’s about community, connection, and creating memories that last long after the sparklers fade. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, dancing to live music in the park, or watching the sky light up over the water, there’s no wrong way to celebrate.

If living close to these community gems and outdoor adventures sounds like your kind of life, let’s chat. I’d love to help you find your next home base here in the South Sound.