In 2026, the United States marks an extraordinary milestone: America’s 250th anniversary. Communities across the country will celebrate the nation’s history, heritage, and spirit of independence. Few places offer a more fitting setting for this historic celebration than Washington’s Evergreen Coast, where rugged coastline, historic maritime communities, and vibrant small-town traditions create an unforgettable Fourth of July experience.
Stretching along the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia River, the Evergreen Coast has long been connected to the story of America. From early maritime trade routes to the arrival of explorers like Lewis and Clark, this region has been a place where history meets natural beauty. As the nation celebrates 250 years, the Long Beach Peninsula and surrounding communities will come alive with four days of patriotic events, local traditions, and coastal festivities that bring visitors and residents together.
A Historic Celebration on the Coast
One of the highlights of the celebration will be appearances by a George Washington historical interpreter, bringing the nation’s first president to life throughout the weekend. Visitors will have opportunities to see “George Washington” during community events, markets, parades, and before the region’s spectacular fireworks displays. These appearances add a unique historical element to the festivities, giving families and visitors a chance to connect with the founding story of the United States in a fun and engaging way.
Throughout the weekend, the actor portraying George Washington will appear at community gatherings including the Long Beach Friday Market, Ilwaco’s fireworks celebration, the Ocean Park parade, and other public events across the peninsula. These appearances create memorable moments for photos, conversations, and a deeper appreciation of the nation’s history during this once-in-a-generation anniversary.
Four Days of Festivities
The celebration begins on Thursday with “Painting the Peninsula Red, White, and Blue” in Ilwaco, a community kickoff that launches the long holiday weekend. The evening will feature Gallery Day, where visitors can explore a map of participating galleries, artisans, pop-ups, and creative spaces across the peninsula. It’s the perfect opportunity to stroll through coastal towns, discover local artists, and experience the creative spirit that defines the Evergreen Coast.
On Friday, the celebration continues with the lively Long Beach Friday Market, where local vendors, food stands, and artisans create a festive atmosphere in downtown Long Beach. Later that evening, visitors will gather in Ilwaco for one of the region’s most beloved traditions: the Ilwaco fireworks display at dusk. With boats filling the marina and crowds gathering along the waterfront, the show lights up the night sky over the Port of Ilwaco in a spectacular display of color and celebration.
Saturday is packed with activity across the peninsula. Early in the day, runners and walkers can participate in Ilwaco’s Firecracker 5K, a fun and energetic way to start the holiday. The Ilwaco Saturday Market brings local crafts, food, and music to the port, while families and visitors make their way north to Ocean Park for the beloved Ocean Park Parade at 1 p.m. This classic small-town parade captures the spirit of coastal community life, with floats, local organizations, and plenty of patriotic flair.
Saturday evening builds to another incredible highlight: the Long Beach fireworks show, one of the largest and most anticipated displays on Washington’s coast. As darkness falls, fireworks burst over the Pacific Ocean, reflecting off the waves and illuminating miles of beach. Visitors often gather along the sand to watch the show, creating a uniquely coastal Fourth of July tradition.
The weekend wraps up on Sunday with a meaningful Peninsula Clean-Up Day, giving visitors and locals the chance to help care for the beaches and natural spaces that make this place so special. Additional activities are planned to keep the celebration going and encourage visitors to extend their stay while enjoying the region’s shops, restaurants, and scenic landscapes.
A Place Where History Meets the Horizon
What makes celebrating America’s 250th on the Evergreen Coast truly special is the setting. Here, historic fishing towns sit alongside wild beaches, working harbors, and windswept dunes. Visitors can watch fireworks over the ocean, explore coastal art galleries, browse local markets, and meet a living-history version of George Washington—all in the same weekend.
The Long Beach Peninsula has always been a place where community traditions run deep. From parades and markets to fireworks and beach gatherings, these celebrations bring together families, visitors, and neighbors in ways that feel both timeless and uniquely coastal.
Plan Your Trip for America’s 250th
America’s 250th anniversary will only happen once, and Washington’s Evergreen Coast offers a celebration that blends history, community, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re strolling through art galleries, cheering at the Ocean Park parade, running the Firecracker 5K, or watching fireworks explode over the ocean, this milestone year promises unforgettable moments.
Make plans now to experience a Fourth of July celebration unlike any other—where patriotism meets the Pacific, and the story of America unfolds along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the country.
