Submitted by Carey Eskridge, Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce.
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 Friday, July 4 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.
The celebration continues into the weekend with the Independence Day Parade on Saturday, July 5 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.
Special thanks to this year’s generous sponsors: The Exchange, Island Life, Orcas Events, Orcas Island Rental Car, The Orcas Hotel, Orcas Center and Orcas Island Market, whose support helps make this unforgettable weekend possible.
Whether you’re running the 5K, dancing on the Green, or waving your flag at the parade, this year’s Independence Day festivities promise something for everyone — with a Whole Lotta Love.
For more info and to register for the race, contest, and parade registration, visit: https://orcascometogether.my.canva.site/2025-fourth-of-july-website
