Tag Archives: Fourth of July

Summer Is Here!

Posted by Sandi

It’s official – our dreamy summer island weather has arrived. While much of the country is sweltering in  high 90’s and 100+ degree weather, we’re enjoying our trademark cool sunny days with 60-ish percent humidity. And with 16-hours of daylight we’ve got plenty of time to soak up our Vitamin D while enjoying our favorite outdoor activities.

This is the first time in quite a few years that Bob and I have celebrated the Fourth on Orcas — usually we head over to Lopez to see their amazing fireworks. I was under the weather yesterday and we didn’t make it to the Eastsound Fireworks display, but the festivities aren’t over yet: this Saturday is the Community Parade along with a host of other activities. Add a bountiful farmer’s market and a bokoo of sunshine and I see a perfect weekend ahead!

Two weeks ago the clouds over our  Solstice Parade made it hard to believe summer was just around the corner. Dark skies didn’t dampen spirits though.

Looking to enjoy the simple life on beautiful Orcas Island?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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Fourth of July – ‘Island Style’

Posted by Sandi

Before we moved to Orcas, Bob and I would vacation here during the Fourth of July. There were so many fun things to do – from pancake breakfasts to parades, fireworks to fairs and salmon BBQs. I had wondered if the novelty would wear off once we moved here. Not so! July 4th is still my favorite holiday in the San Juans!

The weather is nearly perfect and the holiday marks what islanders consider the true beginning of summer. Everyone gets in the spirit. The various communities synchronize their activities so there is something going  on for several days and nights.

A few summers ago, we started a tradition of going to Lopez Island with friends to see the Lopez Community fireworks display which has been hosted by local pyrotechnic volunteers for the past 20 years. We are hooked!  If you ever get a chance to go, here’s a peek of what you’ll see:

 [slideshow]
(photos by Bob Friel)

The reflection on Fisherman Bay doubles the impact and the show is phenomenal. The artistic of presentation is quite different from other shows you’ll see. In fact it’s drawn many rave reviews  from mainland newspapers.

This year we got to Lopez Village early enough to see the parade. What a hoot! Here are some shots:

2011 Lopez Island Fourth of July Parade

The parade theme was "the rock's red glare"

 

2011 Lopez Island Fourth of July Parade

Nearby Frost Island joins the procession

2011 Fourth of July Parade Lopez Island WA

Independence Day takes on another meaning for many islanders

Looking to enjoy the simple life in the beautiful San Juan Islands?
Contact T Williams Realty  – we’ll help you find your way home.

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