Published June 25 2015
Up to 50,000 people are expected at Bellevue Downtown Park for the annual July 4 fireworks display. It's the 25th year the event has been celebrated downtown, and if past years are any indication, attendees are in for a fabulous time.
What is different this year is that extra-dry, warm conditions will require an extra measure of vigilance across the city to keep people and property safe from accidental fires.
Enjoying the festivities
The Bellevue Collection Bellevue Family 4th presented by Paccar runs from 2 to 10:30 p.m.
The Republic Services Main Stage will feature live music by KUDJO (world music), Robbie Walden Band (country) and Idol Eyez (Top 40 dance music). Bellevue Parks & Community Services' Fun Zone will include inflatables and free entertainment such as Spiderman, Captain America, Entertain Men Jugglers, Ronald McDonald, Mr. and Mrs. Mouse, Carbon Yeti and a make-it-take-it wooden toy activity. A food court will feature 22 vendors representing a variety of cuisines.
The Bellevue Fire Department Honor Guard will present the colors prior to the fireworks display. The event will culminate 10:05 p.m. with a spectacular fireworks show synchronized to a live performance by the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra.
In addition to the Family 4th, the Bellevue Downtown Association is producing its BECU Bellevue Four on the 4th Dog Jog & Walk to benefit the Seattle Humane Society. Dogs and their humans will take a 4k (2.5-mile) stroll from Ashwood Park, through the streets of north downtown, beginning at 9 a.m., with festivities upon their return to the park.
Getting there and back
Several lane and street closures will help attendees as they arrive at the event, return home and minimize delays. Please be patient, observe posted signs that guide drivers around the closures and obey police officers directing traffic.
- At 6 p.m., in anticipation of high volumes of pedestrian traffic, eastbound Northeast Fourth Street, from 100th Avenue Northeast to Bellevue Way, will be closed to vehicles;
- At approximately 9:30 p.m., the following streets will be closed to vehicle traffic near Downtown Park: Northeast Fourth Street, from 100th Avenue to Bellevue Way; southbound 103rd Avenue Northeast, from Northeast Second Street to Main Street, and 100th Avenue Northeast, from Northeast First Street to Northeast Fifth Street;
- After the fireworks display, there will be several lane restrictions and turn restrictions on streets near Downtown Park and Bellevue Square. They include Bellevue Way, Northeast Fourth Street, Northeast Eighth Street, 100th and 102nd Avenue Northeast.
- When leaving the event, drivers are encouraged to use Northeast Second Street, Northeast 10th Street or Northeast 12th Street to cross I-405 and quickly exit downtown.
Complimentary event parking is offered after 6 p.m. at Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square and Bellevue Place. Limited free parking also is available at the visitors lot at City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE. For an efficient post-event exit, park at Lincoln Square or use the Bellevue Place garage and exit via Northeast 10th Street.
As always, visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, carpool or take a bus to the event. Comprehensive information about travel options is available at Chooseyourwaybellevue.org.
Staying safe
The Bellevue Fire Department reminds residents and visitors that the sale, use and possession of fireworks are prohibited. This ban has been in effect since 1994, and has significantly reduced the number of fires and injuries common with private fireworks use. Penalties for violations start at $100 and can increase in cost as well as severity. The Fire and Police departments have collaborated on a safety message video.
When attending the July 4 event at Downtown Park, be aware that dogs and other pets are not allowed in the park after 2 p.m. In addition, grills, barbecues, camp stoves and other cooking devices are prohibited. In addition, tents, shelters, canopies or other types of shelters are prohibited after 8 p.m.
Lastly, the Police Department urges attendees to "See Something. Say Something." Be aware of the surroundings and immediately report suspicious activity to a police officer or event staff, and always call 911 in case of emergency.