What's Happening in Kirkland, WA…

Kirkland has made a tradition of celebrating July 4 for the last 27 years and is continuing the practice in 2026.

Business owners and community members came together in 1999 to create Celebrate Kirkland, which was organized formally by the Kirkland Downtown Association (KDA). The city has celebrated every year since, making the event a “Where We Come Together” day to recognize the connections among family, friends, and community. Organizers of community events like this can add to the fun by using banner printing to create appropriate decorations for the day.

Activities will take place throughout Downtown Kirkland, starting with Kids Giveaways and a chance to have photos taken with Princesses on Lakeshore Plaza near Marina Park. The Kids Parade is next, and is limited to those pulling wagons, biking, or walking. This parade is followed by the National Anthem, then the Main Parade steps off. There are about 100 entries including car groups, civic organizations, dance and musical performers, and floats, all set to wind through the city’s downtown. An Engagement Area will be open at Lake Street and Central Way.

The Kids Giveaways and photo ops take place from 10.30 am until 11.30 am, with the Kids Parade beginning immediately afterwards, starting from Lakeshore Plaza at 11.30. The parade will be about a half-hour long. The National Anthem is scheduled for noon at the Grandstand, and the Parade begins after the anthem is played. The Engagement Area will be open from 10.30 am until 1.00 pm.