Parades, Fireworks and Fun Across the Gorge on July 4, 2025
Children cheering and waving to the floats at the 4th of July Parade
By Joshuah Albert
The Dalles, Ore., July 2, 2025 – From early-morning runs to late-night fireworks over the Columbia, Gorge communities are celebrating Independence Day with full-day schedules of family-friendly festivities on Friday, July 4. Whether you're in The Dalles or Stevenson, there’s a celebration nearby for everyone.
Here’s a town-by-town guide to what’s happening:
The Dalles, Oregon
Photo of past Fort Dalles Fourth Fireworks display in The Dalles courtesy Macnab Photography. This year’s show should be equally stunning.
The Dalles hosts one of the region’s largest celebrations with Fort Dalles Fourth, a community-driven event now in its 11th year.
The day begins at 7 a.m. with the Rocket Run, offering 1-mile, 3K, and 5K routes that start and end at Bargeway Pub. Proceeds benefit The Dalles High School cross-country team.
At 8 a.m., City Park opens with a free community breakfast, followed by an all-day Kids Fair featuring games, crafts, and face painting.
The Hometown USA Parade begins at 10 a.m. downtown, showcasing decorated floats, classic cars, community groups, and local first responders. The Gorge Winds Concert Band will perform shortly afterward in City Park, 707 Union Street.
Other highlights include yoga on the grass, a cornhole tournament at St. Mary’s Academy, and local vendors offering food and refreshments.
The day ends with a fireworks show at 10 p.m., launched from a barge on the Columbia River and visible from much of the city. Great views can be had from Sorosis Park, or get up front and center at Lewis & Clark Festival Park at the Union Street Underpass.
Hood River, Oregon
Photos from hoodriverfireworks.com
Hood River’s Fourth of July celebration begins with the Lions Club Parade at 10 a.m., winding through the city’s streets with colorful floats, fire engines, and live music. The parade is known for its strong community participation and family-friendly feel.
After a relaxing day in town or on the waterfront, visitors gather at the Hood River Event Site in the Port of Hood River for a stunning fireworks show at 10 p.m. The display lights up the sky above the river, with Mt. Adams and the Gorge cliffs providing a scenic backdrop. Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs and arrive early, as parking fills up quickly.
Cascade Locks, Oregon
In Cascade Locks, festivities take place at Marine Park, where food and craft vendors set up booths along the riverfront throughout the day.
The event is designed for a small-town feel, with room for kids to run, play, and enjoy family activities at the nearby playground.
As dusk settles over the Gorge, a fireworks display begins around 10 p.m., launched from the park and visible from both the riverfront and the Bridge of the Gods area. Locals often bring picnics and enjoy the cooler evening air.
Goldendale, Washington
Goldendale does things differently—with horsepower. The town’s signature Demolition Derby and Truck Pull starts early at the Klickitat County Fairgrounds, where vehicles of all shapes and sizes compete in crowd-pleasing chaos.
Tech inspections begin at 8 a.m., and the day’s action includes heats for trucks, compact cars, and full-size vehicles. With over $9,000 in prizes up for grabs, the event draws drivers and fans from across eastern Washington.
There is no fireworks display in town, but the roar of engines and the spectacle and sparks of collisions provide their own kind of Fourth of July excitement.
White Salmon, Washington
White Salmon embraces tradition and small-town charm with its annual Fourth of July Parade, starting at 11 a.m. on Jewett Boulevard.
Participants include local businesses, veterans, marching bands, and children riding decorated bikes and wagons. Spectators often dress in red, white, and blue, lining the route with flags and picnic blankets.
The parade ends at Rheingarten Park, where families gather for live music, snacks, and community fellowship. Veterans are honored in a special tent, and kids can participate in games and crafts throughout the afternoon.
Stevenson, Washington
The Skamania County Fairgrounds hosts Stevenson’s Traditional Fourth of July Celebration, drawing families from throughout the Gorge.
Live music from the Big River Blues Band kicks off at 7 p.m., with food trucks, vendors, and a festive atmosphere throughout the grounds.
At dusk—around 10 p.m.—the night sky lights up with a fireworks display that’s visible across the river, including from Cascade Locks. It’s one of the more laid-back celebrations in the area, ideal for those looking for good music, food, and a blanket under the stars.
Tips for Attendees: Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and seating. Expect road closures during parades and parking congestion near fireworks displays. Some events have limited capacity—early arrival is recommended.
For additional updates, visit the city and chamber websites or check the community Facebook pages.
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