July 4th Events to End With Fireworks Over Hilo Bay

This year’s “Hilo Bay Blast 2014” will celebrate Independence Day with the traditional Fourth of July Fireworks exhibition over Hilo Bay Friday at 8 p.m.

But before that there are a number of other events taking place.

Beginning at 7 a.m. will be a “Salute to Our Veterans” Hilo Bay 5K Run/Walk at Lili’uokalani Gardens sponsored by the VFW Post 3830. Prizes will be awarded to the top three in each age group, fastest male and female, most patriotically dressed, best decorated wheelchair, largest group, youngest and oldest, and to the person who traveled the farthest to participate. Call Marlene Hapai, 966-9894, for information.

Hilo Bay Cook-off competitors also will be firing up their grills at the back of the soccer field on the mauka side of Kamehameha Ave. Participants from throughout the state and mainland are ready to unleash tantalizing flavors and aromas to tempt the judges’ taste buds in categories for BBQ Beef, Chicken, Pork, Brisket and Chili, said a county release.

Trophies will be awarded to the top three places in each Cook-off category and an overall winner will have bragging rights for a year. Ten teams have signed up and grilling spaces are still open. Call Rick Fredricks of Hawaiian Arts, 935-1860.

The Hawaii County Band will perform its traditional Fourth of July Concert in the Bandstand beginning at 7 p.m., featuring patriotic selections under the direction of Paul Arceo.

Don Pascual of Hawaii Explosives plans to launch the fireworks from a barge in Hilo Bay beginning at 8 p.m.

Bayfront Highway will be closed from 6 -10 p.m. on Friday. Gates at the Mo`oheau Bus Terminal, Mo`oheau Park Ball Field and adjacent soccer field will be opened to allow access to this area during the fireworks exhibition.

Coconut Island (Moku Ola) is this year’s Kupuna Viewing station, where the Elderly Activities Division will provide shuttle service to the Kamana Center. Call Iris at 961-8710 for information.

The entire event is alcohol-, drug- and litter-free, presented by the County of Hawaii, Destination Hilo, Young Brothers, Hawaii Explosives, Hilo Jaycees and the State of Hawaii.

Those attending are reminded that personal fireworks and smoking also are prohibited at all county beaches and parks.

Call 961-8706 for more information.