Bombs bursting in air
July 1, 2003
For many people, the Fourth of July is a time to be thankful for all of the freedoms America offers. For college students, the day marks one important freedom in particular: freedom from class. With that in mind, The Daily presents a definitive guide to the best ways to spend your day off.
Fourth of Jul-Ivar's
This annual celebration, sponsored by Ivar's restaurants, is one of the most all-encompassing events of the weekend. Taking place at Myrtle Edwards Park on Alaskan Way, the festival includes a Kids Fun Zone, a beer and wine garden, and three stages of entertainment during the day. As the sun begins to set, boats will make their way out onto the water for a front-row view of the massive fireworks display.
Price: free
Family Fourth at Lake Union
A less-corporate event than Fourth of Jul-Ivar's, this popular event at Gasworks Park is the best bet for families. With activities ranging from kite-making to moon bounces, this event will keep kids entertained until 10 p.m., when the fireworks will be set off above Lake Union. While the emphasis is on family fun, any college student can appreciate the setting, live bands and the largest fireworks display in the Seattle area.
Price: free
Fireworks and Fish at the Seattle Aquarium
The Seattle Aquarium is taking advantage of its location on the waterfront by holding its own event. Visitors can watch fireworks over Elliot Bay from the pier, while local jazz guitarist Michael Powers performs. Afterward, the aquarium will be open until midnight, presumably to allow people to witness the rare sight of the fish sleeping in a simulation of their natural habitat.
Price: $18, includes picnic food and soft drinks
Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival
While interest in wooden boats may be somewhat limited, this festival should be a great way to kill time if you wake up before 2 p.m. on your day off. The festival continues all weekend, but there's a decent chance it will be most active on the holiday. Plus, the Center for Wooden Boats, located at 1010 Valley St., offers a great view of the fireworks at across Lake Union, if you're patient enough to wait that long.
Price: $5 for students
Swimming in Drumheller Fountain
While The Daily does not encourage against-the-rules activities, it should be noted that Drumheller is still relatively sanitary from its recent cleaning, and could be a great way to cool off if the day gets too hot.
Price: free, unless you get caught by the UWPD
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