The Yay-Today Guide to Fourth of July 2012

Okay, first, the good news- the Fourth of July is almost here, my weather app says it is going to be sunny for at least some part of the day, and we all know that once it’s over, summer weather will actually kick in! The bad news- Summer’s Eve (now that I’ve typed that out, I see why we don’t call it that) falls on a Wednesday this year. Yeah, it’s kind of hard to party hard in the middle of the week, but at least you get to sleep in later than usual. Let’s focus on the positive and all plan on having a fabulous, festive July 4th. Here is a list of how to get patriotic when it’s still to chilly to wear that tacky American flag string bikini (although, let’s be honest, one of your neighbors will whip that old thing out if the temperature climbs above 65 degrees):

• There’s only one real-deal fireworks show in Seattle, and that’s the big show that takes place at Gasworks Park. Our excessively long summer days means that the big show doesn’t start until nearly 10:00pm, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t participate in festivities all day long. You guys, don’t be naive- this thing gets CROWDED. But if you don’t suffer from social anxiety, it’s a pretty sweet celebration- picnicking is encouraged, live music plays all afternoon on two stages, there’s a freaking 200 foot zipline and a beer garden that opens at noon. If the holiday has the nerve to happen in the middle of the week, you might as well indulge in a little day-drinking. Get all the details of the Fourth of July festivities here.
• Or watch from a strategic location in Capitol Hill- check out this list of prime viewing spots.
• Just around the riverbend (er, lakebend?), the Wooden Boat Festival is celebrating it’s last day. Go get on a boat!
• Excercise is the best way to prepare yourself for a day of barbeque, so sign up for the 2012 Firecracker 5000. This 5k starts at midnight sharp on Wednesday night/Thursday morning and weaves a course around the Space Needle. Registration is only $30 (if you register by July 2- $40 after) and you get a glow-in-the-dark shirt for your troubles.
• Or celebrate etsy-style and do it yourself. As a refugee of arid Southern California, I’m still amazed that fireworks are legal(ish) here and not too mature to admit that I enjoy playing with fire. Here’s a nice guide to what’s legal, what’s not and where to get the good stuff.
• Too lazy to BBQ your own brisket? Go to Belltown Pub instead. They’ve got brisket, strawberry shortcake, and one of the best happy hours in Seattle.
• Or go gourmet and make your feast at home. For the best possible results, take advantage of your day off and do your shopping at the Columbia City Farmer’s Market, which is open on the Fourth of July! I always hear rave reviews of this particular market, and a no-work Wednesday may be the perfect time to visit.
• Just added! We always need more coffee in Seattle. Good things Starbucks is giving away FREE coffee on the Fourth!

That’s what I’ve got so far. But don’t be a stranger- talk to us on Twitter, Facebook or in the comment section below if you know of any other great events happening around the city- sales at fancy grocery stores, extra-long midday happy hours, or where to score the best hot dogs in town. We’ll keep updating the list, so check back often. And have a great, safe Fourth of July everybody!