Plan for Fourth of July parade, band

La Conner will again act locally while thinking nationally on July 4.

The town is site once more of Independence Day festivities with something for everyone – from a holiday parade to food and beverages to live music to a fireworks display over Swinomish Channel.

The fun starts with the always popular 12 p.m. parade down First Street. Parade staging is set for 11 a.m. on State Street, in front of the Port of Skagit’s La Conner Marina south basin parking area.

The parade traditionally draws an array of motorized, non-motorized and even family pet entries, nearly all decked out in patriotic red, white and blue.

Those wishing to participate must complete liability waivers beforehand, Town staff told the Weekly News on Friday. Those forms can be accessed on the Town website.

At 5 p.m., food vendors and a beer and wine garden will open at the marina.

Music will start at 5:30 p.m., also at the marina, said former La Conner gallery owner Linda Lipke, now board president of the Rick Epting Foundation for the Arts and events manager for the concert.

First on the bill will be The Enthusiasts, featuring Grammy Award winner Randy Weeks, Lipke said. She said local favorite Chris Eger and the Power Horns will follow at 7:30.

“This hometown event,” said Lipke, “celebrates not only our nation’s birthday, but it brings the community together on a summer afternoon to listen to local music and enjoy a beverage and yummy food.”

The Epting Foundation, Port of Skagit and Town of La Conner are tri-sponsors of the event, which serves a dual purpose, Lipke notes.

“What I’m most proud of,” she said, “is that this event for the past seven years has raised money for the La Conner School District’s art and music programs.”

Lipke noted that the Epting Foundation last year donated a $4,500 kiln to La Conner Schools.

The local July 4 schedule truly wraps up on a high note. Fireworks will light up the night sky, starting at 10 p.m.

Lipke appreciates the level of teamwork required to make the Fourth of July celebration happen here every year.

“We couldn’t do it,” she said, “without the help and support of the Town and Port.”