An Orcas Island Fourth of July

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, June 25, 2025

The Fourth of July on Orcas Island isn’t your typical patriotic celebration.

While there will be plenty of American flags during the community parade, revelers can also partake in a fun run and cake walk and dance the night away to classic Led Zeppelin tunes.

Calendar of events

Friday, June 27

Orcas Center’s Visual Arts Committee is pleased to present the next Art Opening, Friday, June 27 from 5:30-7 p.m. with featured artist Zoe Osenbach in the lobby and a community show, “Botanicals and Blooms,” in the Madrona Room. The exhibit will be on display through July 22.

Osenbach is a process-oriented artist who approaches her art with a sense of play and curiosity. Gravitating toward found, used and recycled materials, she breathes new life into objects that others have discarded. For Osenbach, creative freedom often emerges from the constraints of using only what she can scavenge — whether it’s from The Exchange or a friend’s trash bin. She revels in taking things apart and discovering treasures inside, which adds an element of chance and delight to the process. “Plus,” Osenbach says, “Swinging a hammer is just thoroughly enjoyable.”

Beyond her artistic practice, Osenbach is a dedicated community organizer, focused on giving fine artists opportunities for showcasing and selling their wares. She facilitates the Orcas Artists Studio Tour, connecting artists and audiences through intimate glimpses into working studios – this year’s roster includes nearly 40 artists and takes place Aug. 8-10. Additionally, Osenbach curates the annual Handmade Craft Market at Orcas Center each fall, celebrating artisanal talent and handcrafted wares, and is a dedicated volunteer of the Visual Arts Committee at Orcas Center, which coordinates monthly art exhibits.

Sunday, July 29

Orcas Center is excited to present “Cole Does King,” a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Carole King from Kaylee Cole, as part of the free Summer Concert Series on the Village Green at 5 p.m.

Cole is a Seattle-based singer-songwriter known for her raw, emotional performances and powerful vocals. After a life-changing car accident in college, Cole discovered her passion for music and songwriting, viewing her experience as a transformative moment that awakened her musical voice. She considers herself a “songkeeper,” recognizing the profound healing power of music and aiming to connect with audiences on a deep, personal level. Cole has shared the stage with artists such as The Lumineers, The Head and the Heart and Damien Jurado, and has collaborated with TV on the Radio, Hey Marseilles, Pickwick, Widower, Nick Jaina and many more.

In this special performance, Cole will pay tribute to King’s iconic 1971 album “Tapestry,” one of the best-selling albums of all time. The album features timeless classics like “I Feel the Earth Move,” “You’ve Got a Friend” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” Cole’s rendition will bring a fresh, personal interpretation to these beloved songs, celebrating King’s enduring influence on music and culture.

Thursday, July 3

Deer Harbor Community fireworks show starts at dusk (around 10 p.m.) Live music by the Dustbunnies on the pier before the show. Due to the possibility of overcrowding, since there is no Fourth of July show this year, organizers may have to limit the number of people on the pier and will definitely do so on the docks.

There is the beach, Island Pie, Matt’s Smokehouse or the community trail south of the marina to enjoy the show as well. Come enjoy what will be Deer Harbor’s last fireworks show.

Friday, July 4

Get ready for a weekend filled with music, community and good old-fashioned island fun as the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce hosts the third Annual Fourth of July Picnic and Firecracker 5K Fun Run on the Eastsound Village Green.

This year’s theme, “Whole Lotta Love,” is a celebration of togetherness, island spirit and the joy of coming together Orcas-style.

The day begins with a burst of energy at 8 a.m. with the Firecracker 5K Fun Run — a family-friendly race for runners and walkers of all ages. Costumes and festive attire are encouraged, and registration is live! Runners start and finish on the Village Green and complete an awesome trip around Eastsound. Awards are given to different age groups, but the event is all about having fun!

The Community Picnic officially kicks off at noon on the Village Green, featuring a whole afternoon of games, contests, local food and live entertainment. Don’t miss the return of the always-popular Cakewalk at 12:30 p.m., followed by the delicious (and spicy?) showdown of the Chili Cook-Off at 1 p.m., and the Pie Baking Contest at 2 p.m., where island bakers compete for sweet victory.

Music lovers are in for a treat with an exciting lineup of live performances. At 3 p.m., local favorite WildChild brings their infectious energy and 1970s classic rock sounds to the stage. At 5 p.m., Lilo Sanchez keeps the groove going with an eclectic DJ set, setting the mood for the night’s headliner: Zoso – The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience, taking the stage from 7-9 p.m. Prepare for a rocking tribute that’s sure to bring down the house and embody the spirit of this year’s theme: “Whole Lotta Love.”

Adults can also raise a glass at the Beer & Wine Tent, opening at 1 p.m. Sponsored by Hops on the Rock Beerfest, the tent will showcase brews from regional breweries featured in the upcoming November festival, along with local favorites, including Orcas Isle Cider.

Saturday, July 5

The celebration continues into the weekend with the Independence Day Parade at noon with Grand Marshal Lisa Byers, executive director of OPAL Community Land Trust, leading the proceedings. The parade will wind through Eastsound, led by the rousing sounds of the Community Band, and culminate in a classic car show on North Beach Road, where vintage vehicles will be on display for all to enjoy.

For more info and to register for the race, contest, and parade registration, visit: https://orcascometogether.my.canva.site/2025-fourth-of-july-website.

The Orcas Island Fire and Rescue pancake breakfast will take place from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Eastsound Fire Station. Volunteers will be serving their secret recipe for pancakes, sausage, eggs and beverages. Adults are $10, children $7 and those under 7 are free.

The Orcas Island Lions Club Salmon BBQ is from 4-7 p.m. at the Eastsound Fire Station. Members will be serving smoked salmon, BBQ chicken, baked potatoes and cole slaw. Take-out is available. Adults are $25 and children are $15. Tickets at Kay’s and Pawkis.

The Orcas Island Farmers Market will also be hopping in the Village Green from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, July 6

Orcas Center’s free summer concert series continues with The Litch Brothers, Fritz Gearhart, Robert Sarazin Blake and The High, Wide & Handsome Band starting at 5 p.m. in the Village Green.

The Litch Brothers

With Tashi Litch on mandolin, Kaj Litch on guitar, Evan Snoey on fiddle and Ben Lewis on bass, the group blends original compositions, bluegrass standards and folk-inspired covers. While their influences include artists such as Watchhouse, The Punch Brothers and The Avett Brothers, The Litch Brothers have a sound all their own — one that’s bold and forward-thinking, yet firmly grounded in traditional bluegrass. Each member brings their own distinct musical voice, contributing to the band’s versatility and adaptability, whether performing for large crowds or in intimate settings.

Fritz Gearhart

Joining the lineup is Fritz Gearhart, a classically trained violinist and singer-songwriter known for his fusion of jazz, folk and rock elements. With four albums to his name and a fifth set to release in the fall, Gearhart’s melodic and chordal style offers a unique listening experience. He has performed internationally and served as faculty at four universities, making him a versatile addition to the concert.

Robert Sarazin Blake

Get ready for a soulful, foot-stomping evening with Robert Sarazin Blake, backed by the ever-energetic High, Wide & Handsome Band. Known for his poetic songwriting, magnetic stage presence and genre-blurring blend of Americana, folk and punk spirit — this is a show that speaks to the heart and gets you dancing.