The Fourth of July holiday is a time to relax and enjoy the company of family and friends. For service members at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, it provides a number of opportunities for fun and fireworks.

The recent easing of restrictions due to COVID-19 did not allow event organizers enough time to plan, finance and market for large events; however, there will be a number of smaller Fourth of July events to attend.  

FRIDAY, JULY 2

Service members at McChord Field will have the day off for Air Force Family Day. Specifically known as a Day of No Scheduled Activity, or DONSA, it is one of several days during the year when airmen and their families are thanked for their service.

SATURDAY, JULY 3

Puyallup is hosting Let Freedom Ring at the Washington State Fair & Events Center featuring a number of events starting at 3 p.m. Capping off the day's festivities will be the Red, White & Kaboom Drive-in Fireworks Celebration viewed from the parking lots. Learn more at www.puyallupsumnerchamber.com/july3.

SATURDAY, JULY 3 & SUNDAY, JULY 4

The Gig Harbor Wings & Wheels Air Show at the Tacoma Narrows Airport will be a drive-in as well. Attendees can purchase one ticket for their car, and they will have their own tailgate space from which to enjoy the show. There will be two shows each day, the first from 10 a.m. to noon followed by the second from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, go to https://gigharborwingsandwheels.com/.

Featured performers include a C-17 Globemaster III, the U.S. Air Force F-35 Heritage Flight with a P-51 Mustang and an AH-1/UH-1 Helicopter demonstration.

The same two days will also find most of the same planes flying over the Tacoma waterfront from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. This year's Tacoma Freedom Fair Air Show will not have the usual venders and music stages, as well as, parking and transit. Non-waterfront residents are encouraged to attend the Gig Harbor shows.

SUNDAY, JULY 4

Joint Base Lewis-McChord will host an Independence Day Celebration fireworks celebration from 7 to 11 p.m. at Cowan and Memorial Stadiums. The free event is open to DoD ID card members. For more information, go to https://jblm.armymwr.com/calendar/event/independence-day-celebration/5171048/59361.  

Enjoy the Fourth of July weekend.