Independence Day Events

A variety of events will take place on July 4 in celebration of Independence Day. The Fourth of July celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. On the Big Island, residents and visitors alike with take part in festivities from parades and activities to live music and fireworks shows.

Volcano Village Fourth of July Parade and Celebration

• The Volcano Village Fourth of July Parade is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. near the post office on Old Volcano Road. From there, the parade continues to Cooper Center on Wright Street. Music, games, food booths, and activities will go on throughout the day. In addition to the festivities, a silent auction will be held to benefit the Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Hilo Bay Blast

• Events will be held throughout downtown Hilo, including the Hilo Bay BBQ Cook-Off and a classic car show featuring Cruise Paradise. Music and games for the keiki will also take place. The Hawai’i County Band will perform its annual Independence Day concert at 7 p.m., leading to a fireworks show at 8 p.m.

Waikoloa Beach Resort Family Fourth and Fireworks Extravaganza/Rubber Duckie Race

•  Ten mini concerts will take place on two stages, plus carnival food and games, the annual Rubber Duckie Race, and music of the United States Air Force Band of the Pacific, all capped off with fireworks over the Waikoloa Bowl. The event begins at 11 a.m. Admission is free, and small fees for carnival games, photo booth, and Zoo Choo train rides will benefit the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Hawai’i. Adopt rubber duckies for $5. Over $27,000 in prizes up for grabs.

Kailua-Kona Independence Day Parade and Fireworks

• The parade, which occurs annually, will start at 6 p.m., beginning at the Kekuaokalani Gymnasium and heading towards the Royal Kona Resort. At 8 p.m., a fireworks show will dazzle the crowd over Kailua Bay.

Turtle Independence Day

• Held at Mauna Lani Bay, this annual event celebrates the release of baby honu to the ocean. Festivities start at 10:30 a.m. and includes entertainment and educational displays. Fourth of July food for purchase.

Parker Ranch 53rd Annual 4th of July Rodeo and Horse Races

• Festivities start at 9 a.m. and will be held at the Parker Ranch arena. In addition to the rodeo and horse races, a non-perishable food collection area is being set up by the Hawai’i Wildlife Management Association, benefiting The Food Basket. Tickets are $10, but children 12 and under are allowed in for free.

Summerfest at the Shops at Mauna Lani (Sunday, July 5)

• The second annual event is co-sponsored by the Shops at Mauna Lani, Hulakai Surf, and Hawaiian Island Creations. It runs from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring a 100-foot water slide, rock climbing, games, live entertainment, and discount 4D adventure rides. Food will be provided by Tommy Bahama, Under the Bodhi Tree, and many more vendors.