4th of July Events in Vancouver WA: Your Guide to Fireworks, Festivals, and Fun in 2025

If you're searching for the best 4th of July events in Vancouver, WA, you’re in the right place. While Vancouver itself won’t host an official fireworks show this year, there are still plenty of amazing Independence Day celebrations just a short drive away. From Ridgefield’s beloved small-town festival to the Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show, Southwest Washington offers no shortage of ways to celebrate July 4th, 2025.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for a festive night with friends, or just want to catch a great view of the fireworks, we’ve rounded up the top events, parades, and viewing spots near Vancouver so you don’t miss a thing.

Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show (July 4 – 10 PM)

Hands down the largest and most spectacular show in the area, Portland’s Waterfront Fireworks Show lights up the sky starting at 10 PM on July 4th.

🎵 Bonus: The show is hosted in tandem with the Waterfront Blues Festival, which means you’ll hear music, taste local eats, and feel the crowd's energy all night long.

Why Go:

• Free fireworks display launched from a barge on the Willamette River

• Best views from Tom McCall Waterfront Park

• Just 20–30 minutes from Vancouver

• Viewable from either side of the river (but Portland’s side has the full experience)

Pro Tip: Arrive early (by 8:30 PM) to find parking and claim your viewing spot. Or take public transit to avoid traffic.

Best Spots to Watch the Portland Fireworks

• Tom McCall Waterfront Park – The main viewing hub! Get there by 8 p.m. to grab a great spot on the grass. Food trucks and vendors will be out all day, so come early and settle in for the show.

• Sellwood Park – A quieter riverside option with great views of the fireworks and a bit more space to spread out.

• Willamette Park – Another peaceful riverside pick with great vantage points and fewer crowds than downtown.

• Fremont Bridge & Other Bridges – Several Portland bridges offer unique, elevated views of the fireworks — just check for pedestrian access rules ahead of time.

Ridgefield’s Historic 4th of July Celebration

If you're looking for an all-American Independence Day celebration without crossing the river, Ridgefield, WA is where you want to be. This charming small town goes big every July 4th — and they’ve been doing it for over 100 years!

Here’s what makes Ridgefield’s celebration so special:

• Morning Fun Run to kick off the day with energy

• Kids & Pets Parade – adorable and totally photo-worthy

• Craft Vendors + Food Trucks all day at Overlook Park

• Live Music & Contests (yes, there’s a pie-eating contest!)

• Family Activities – just $5 for an all-day kids’ wristband

• Local Fireworks Display at Dusk 🎆

Everything takes place right in downtown Ridgefield, with Overlook Park acting as the main hub for food, entertainment, and festivities.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid the traffic hassle! There’s free parking at Costco, and a free C-TRAN shuttle will get you to and from the event with ease.

This celebration is 100% community-powered — organized by a volunteer-run nonprofit that keeps the focus on patriotism, family fun, and small-town spirit.

Bonus Fireworks Alert: Celebrate Again at Battle Ground’s Harvest Days – July 18–19, 2025

If one night of fireworks just isn’t enough — we’ve got great news. Battle Ground’s Harvest Days Festival brings the celebration back just two weeks after the 4th! This beloved community tradition runs July 18–19, 2025, and is packed with family-friendly fun, food, entertainment, and yes — a second round of fireworks!

🌟 Friday, July 18 – Kickoff Festivities

• Carnival at Battle Ground High School — all day fun for the whole family!

• Harvest Nights Cruise (6 PM–9:30 PM) — Classic car lovers, this one’s for you! Featuring vintage rides from 1990 and earlier, cruising down Main Street in style.

🎉 Saturday, July 19 – Full Day of Activities

• Firefighter Pancake Breakfast (7 AM–10 AM) – Fuel up for the day with a community favorite.

• Rose Planting Ceremony (9 AM) – Honoring Citizens of the Year at Central Park.

• Parade on Main Street (10 AM) – A highlight of the day featuring floats, marching bands, and local pride.

• Harvest Market (11 AM–6 PM) – Browse local vendors, crafts, and food booths.

• BMX Bike Show (10 AM–3 PM) – High-flying tricks and jaw-dropping stunts at the Community Center.

• Main Stage Live Entertainment (12:30 PM–6 PM) – Music, performances, and fun at Battle Ground High.

• Bounce Houses & Family Activities – Perfect for kids of all ages.

• 4x4 Vehicle Show (2 PM–6 PM) – Explore a showcase of off-road beasts.

And of course…

Fireworks Display – Saturday Night (Time TBA)

Held at Battle Ground High School, the show caps off a perfect summer weekend with sky-high celebration and small-town sparkle.

💡 Pro Tip: This event is super family-friendly and laid-back — perfect if you're looking to celebrate without the massive Portland crowds. Bring the kids, meet your neighbors, and enjoy that classic community feel that makes Southwest Washington so special.

Other Ways to Celebrate the 4th Around Vancouver

Even if you’re not planning to watch fireworks, Vancouver offers plenty of patriotic activities:

• Vancouver Waterfront Walk: Bring a picnic and enjoy Columbia River views

• First Friday Art Walk (July 4, 5–9 PM): Galleries, live music, and extended downtown hours

• Washougal’s Kid-Friendly Parade: Happening from 10 AM to 12 PM at Hathaway Park

• Splash Pads & Parks: Beat the heat early with outdoor fun at Bagley Community Park or Central Park

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Big — Even with Just 2 Firework Shows

Even though Vancouver, WA isn’t hosting its own fireworks display this year, you're surrounded by incredible ways to celebrate Independence Day just minutes away. Whether you're drawn to the small-town charm of Ridgefield’s 100+ year-old celebration, the big lights and sounds of Portland’s waterfront fireworks, or even saving the excitement for Battle Ground’s later July 18th show, there’s something for everyone.

The beauty of living in Southwest Washington is that you don’t have to go far to find community, culture, and celebration. From morning fun runs to evening fireworks, you can build your own perfect 4th of July itinerary — and maybe even start a new tradition or two.

🌟 So pack a picnic, grab a few lawn chairs, and get ready to enjoy the best of the Pacific Northwest this Independence Day. Whether you're watching from a waterfront park, enjoying local art downtown, or dancing to live music under the stars, we hope your 4th of July is filled with joy, connection, and unforgettable moments.

Wishing you a safe and festive Fourth — from our neighborhood to yours!

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