Orcas Island's Fourth of July festivities begins with a spirited 5K Fun Run followed by a classic Community Picnic and concert on the Village Green in Eastsound. The fun run (and walk), sometimes featuring costumed participants, circumnavigates the main village along Crescent Beach and Mount Baker Road and culminates with awards, tacos and more at the finish. The picnic that follows is a quintessential small-town celebration with food, music, games, and a festive atmosphere for the entire family, featuring a chili cook off and pie eating contest and more. A highlight of the picnic has become the famous cake walk, where participants dance in a circle similar to musical chairs with the chance of winning prized cakes. With origins from decades ago when neighbors would gather in the center of town to share home baked treats to mark the summer holiday, the picnic is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with other community groups and volunteers and embodies the island's strong sense of community spirit. It's a chance to celebrate Independence Day the Orcas way – gathering with friends, sharing food, and dancing like nobody's watching.
Although it can depend on when the holiday falls on the calendar, the community picnic usually kicks off a full weekend of tradition, including the Orcas Island Fire & Rescue Pancake Breakfast, the Lion’s Club Salmon BBQ, the American Legion Pig Roast, and the annual holiday parade. It’s peak season fun on Orcas Island!
