Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the 4th of July Festival in Seward located?
A: The festival is located on Adams Street between 3rd Avenue and 5th Avenue and the Seward Fire Dept lot.
Q: Is there an entrance fee for the festival?
A: There is not!
Q: Will there be a boat parade during the festival?
A: Yes. It is scheduled to take place at 11:00 PM on July 3 along the Seward waterfront–departing from the Small Boat Harbor and turning around at the Alaska Sea Life Center.
Q: How can I sign up for the Boat Parade?
A: Stay Tuned for the 2026 Boat Parade Sign Up Link!
Q: When will the fireworks show occur?
A: The fireworks show will take place at 12:01 AM on July 4. This timing allows spectators to watch the fireworks on the actual holiday due to the unique Alaskan sunset being very late. Best place to view the firework show is from the Seward waterfront park.
Q: Where does the float parade take place, and at what time?
A: The float parade departs from the AVTEC 2nd Ave campus location. It then proceeds past the hospital, down Jefferson Street, down 4th Avenue, and ends at the three way stop of Railway, Washington and 5th Ave. The parade is scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM on July 4th. Click on THIS LINK to sign up for the float parade!
Q: If I have signed up and am participating in the float parade, where should I meet?
A: If you are participating in the float parade, please meet at AVTEC at 12:00 PM.
Q: What is the purpose of the Sensory-Friendly Area in the parade?
A: The Chamber has designated a Sensory-Friendly Area for the first block of the parade. This area is created to provide an inclusive environment for children and families with autism and other sensory disorders. The entertainment in this section will be altered to accommodate their needs.
Q: Can you provide more information about the Mount Marathon Race?
A: The Mount Marathon Race takes place on Friday, July 4th. The race schedule for 2025 is as follows:
- Junior start — 9:00 AM
- Women's start — 11:00 AM
-Mini-Mount Marathon Race starts right after the last heat of the men's race as they leave the starting line.
- Men's start — 2:00 PM
Please note that the start times alternate annually between the women's and men's race. In even-numbered years, the women's race is the last event of the day, while in odd-numbered years, the men's race concludes the day's events.
Q: What can I expect from the games corner?
A: The games corner will offer various games and activities for both children and adults to enjoy. Games will take place on July 5th at the Teen Rec Room parking lot behind the Seward Senior Center.
Q: What is the schedule for the games?
A: You can view the 2025 schedule for the games here!
Q: What are the current community events available at the festival?
A: You can view the 2025 schedule for the event here!
Q: How many vendors will be at the festival?
A: About 50 vendors in 2025!
Q: What are the festival hours for vendor business?
A: From last year's Festival:
Thursday, July 3rd: 12pm - 6pm, Friday, July 4th (Race day!): 9am - 6pm, Saturday, July 5th: 10am - 6pm
Q: Are pets allowed at the festival?
A: No pets allowed at the festival. While we love your pets, there is a lot going on and we don’t want your pets to get spooked and run off.
Q: Will there be food available at the festival?
A: Yes, in addition to the BBQ Rib Feed at the American Legion and the Chicken BBQ with Sacred Heart Catholic Church, there will be various food vendors at the festival offering a wide range of culinary options.
Q: Will there be music at the festival?
A: There will be music happening all weekend at various local businesses! Check our main page for specifics.
Q: Is there parking available near the festival grounds?
A: Street parking is available or you can take the Seward Free Shuttle from your location to downtown. Here is their route.
Q: Is the festival suitable for children?
A: Yes, the festival offers various games and activities that are suitable for children. However, parental guidance and discretion are advised based on individual preferences and the age appropriateness of the activities.