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: They can sign up on our events page under 4th of July. Here’s the 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.
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 Tuesday, July 4th. The race schedule for 2023 is as follows:
- Junior start — 9:00 AM
- Men's start — 11:00 AM
-Mini-Mount Marathon Race starts right after the last heat of women leave the starting line
- Women'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, located on Church Street, will offer various games and activities for both children and adults to enjoy.
Q: What is the schedule for the games?
A: Please view the game schedule above!
Q: What are the current games available at the festival?
A: The current games include:
- Tug of War
- Egg Toss
- Skate Night
- Fish Toss
-Slow Bike Race
-Musical Chairs
-Drag Race
-Chubby Bunny Contest
-Seagull Calling Contest
-Midnight Kayak
-Greased Pole
Please note that the list is subject to change, and additional games may be added.
Q: What are the current community events available at the festival?
A: The current community events include:
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7/3 5-7pm Annual Pie Sale @Seward Memorial United Methodists Church, then on July 4 they start selling pies at 8 am until they sell out
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7/4 11am Sloppy Joe Booth @ Resurrection Lutheran Church
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7/4 11 am BBQ Rib Feed @ American Legion Post #5
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7/4 11AM Chicken BBQ @ Sacred Heart Catholic Church
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7/4 5PM Live music with Ellie & the Echoes @ Flamingo Lounge Beer Garden
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7/3 6PM Miller's Landing Fish Toss
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7/3 10PM Miller's Landing Midnight Kayak
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7/3 8PM DJ GRE @ Seward Alehouse
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7/3 7/4 9PM Dance Party with DJ Hank @ Yukon Bar
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7/4 4PM DJ Hank Dance Party on the Kawabe Park lawn
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7/4 11:08 AM Mini Mount Marathon Race
Q: How many vendors will be at the festival?
A: There will be around 50 festival vendors at the event.
Q: What are the festival hours for vendor business?
A: Vendors will be open for business during the following hours:
- Some vendors may start setting up and vending after 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 2.
- Wednesday, July 3: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Thursday, July 4 (also Mount Marathon Race Day): 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Q: Are pets allowed at the festival?
A: 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 Sloppy Joe feed with Resurrection Lutheran Church, 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: Yes! Ellie & the Echoes will play 5-9 at the Flamingo Lounge Beer Garden. DJ Hank and DJ GRE will play throughout the weekend as well.
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.