Orcas Island to celebrate Independence Day weekend ‘Among the Wildflowers’

A weekend of community events include Firecracker 5K, Community Picnic, live music, fireworks, parade, antique car show, and more

||| FROM CAREY ESKRIDGE for ORCAS ISLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE |||

The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce invites residents and visitors alike to celebrate Independence Day Weekend with a full schedule of family-friendly festivities centered on this year’s theme, “Among the Wildflowers” Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4.

More than a holiday celebration, the annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run, Community Picnic, Independence Day Parade, and related events are a longstanding Orcas Island tradition that brings neighbors, families, businesses, volunteers, and visitors together to celebrate community, connection, and island pride.

The 2026 theme, “Among the Wildflowers,” reflects both the island’s spectacular summer landscape and the community itself. Just as wildflowers flourish together across diverse landscapes, the people of Orcas Island create a vibrant,welcoming community where everyone contributes something unique.

Friday, July 3: Firecracker 5K, Community Picnic & Fireworks
The weekend begins with the annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run at 8:30 a.m., welcoming runners, walkers, families, and participants of all ages. While day-of registration will be available, participants are encouraged to register online in advance. Packet pickup and late registration will also take place on Thursday, July 2, from 4–7 p.m. on the Village Green. Participants registering at that time may not receive their race shirt until after the holiday weekend.

Festivities continue at 1 p.m. with the 4th Annual Community Picnic, beginning with Ms. Christina’s Almost World Famous Cake Walk.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees can enjoy:

• Food and artisan vendors
• Community activities
• The Chili Cook-Off beginning at 1 p.m.
• The Pie Baking Contest beginning at 2 p.m.
• The Hops on the Rock Beer & Wine Tent, featuring Island Hoppin’ Brewery, Orcas Project Wines, Orcas Isle Cider, Fremont Brewing non-alcoholic offerings, and other local favorites
• The new Kids Zone, sponsored by Children’s House, featuring a bounce house and family activities
• Special appearances from several mayoral candidates

Those interested in entering the Chili Cook-Off or Pie Baking Contest can register through the Chamber’s website on the Independence Day Weekend page.

Live entertainment begins at 4 p.m. with local favorites Bad Dads, followed by nationally acclaimed Tom Petty tribute band Petty Fever taking the stage at 7 p.m. for a full two-hours of rock! The show will be live streamed by local radio station KIXP 102.3 FM.

The evening concludes with the return of the Eastsound Fireworks Show over Fishing Bay at dusk, beginning shortly after 10 p.m. with Clint McCune playing live music to the show from Eastsound Waterfront Park.

Saturday, July 4: Parade, Pancake Breakfast & Antique Car Show
Saturday’s festivities begin at 7am at the Eastsound Fire Hall with the Orcas Island Volunteer Firefighter & EMT Association Pancake Breakfast, supporting local first responders.

The Orcas Island Community Band performs its traditional pre-parade concert beginning at 11 a.m., followed by the annual Independence Day Parade beginning at noon, led by the American Legion and announced by longtime emcees Ken and Karen Speck.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Paul Freedman, Head of School at Salmonberry School, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The Chamber is honored to recognize Freedman’s leadership and Salmonberry’s lasting contributions to the Orcas Island community.

Businesses, organizations, families, and individuals interested in participating in the parade may register through the Chamber website or at the Chamber office located at 65 North Beach Road. Following the parade, North Beach Road will remain closed through the conclusion of the Farmers Market to accommodate the 2nd Annual Antique Car Show, presented by Gordy’s
Garage.

The day concludes with the Orcas Island Lions Club Salmon Barbecue, held from 3–7 p.m. at the Eastsound Fire Hall.

A Celebration Powered by Community
The Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce extends sincere appreciation to the businesses, organizations, volunteers, sponsors, and countless community members whose generosity makes this annual celebration possible.

Title Sponsors
Island Market, Brown Bear Baking, Jensen Rentals, Lower Tavern, The Gudgell Group, Country Corner, Orcas Center, Orcas Village Store, The Exchange, Ray's Pharmacy, and Island Life.

Community Partners
OI Rental Car, Rosario Resort, Island Hoppin’ Brewery, Island Hardware, Beach Haven Resort, Inn at Ship Bay, Orcas Hotel, Aldort Construction, OI Golf Course, OI Distillery, Frog Marine, Landmark Inn, Madrona Distillery, West Sound Utility Construction, Outlook Inn, Cafe Aurora, Olga Rising, Lascaux Café, Doe Bay Café, and Girl Meets Dirt.

Special thanks also go to Orcas Center, this year’s Community Picnic Concert Stage Sponsor, and Kevin Colomby for helping bring an outstanding lineup of live music to the event.

Community members interested in supporting future Independence Day celebrations may make a donation through the July 4th Weekend page on the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce website.

Whether you’re running the Firecracker 5K, entering a pie, marching in the parade, enjoying live music, watching fireworks over Fishing Bay, or simply gathering with friends and neighbors, everyone is invited to celebrate Among the Wildflowers and experience the community spirit that makes Orcas Island such a remarkable place to call home.

For event schedules, registration, donations, and additional information, visit the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce website at orcasislandchamber.com or stop by the Chamber office at 65 North Beach Road in Eastsound.