Vashon readies for fireworks, hydros and holiday safety

Published 10:30 am Monday, June 29, 2026

Islanders will get a front-row seat to one of the biggest firework shows in Washington this year, with a professional display lighting up Quartermaster Harbor once again just after dusk.

The show will be put on by firework company Pyro Spectaculars — the longtime producer of the event — who will launch fireworks from a barge in the center of the harbor.

This year’s show will be as impressive as ever, featuring some of the biggest shells launched anywhere in Washington, said Pyro Spectaculars show producer Brad Omon.

“It rivals up there with Seattle’s Lake Union show, it’s about the only one that compares to it,” he said.

This Fourth of July weekend, Omon said Pyro Spectaculars will produce over 60 shows across Washington. But Vashon’s show is especially big, Omon said.

“They love their firework show out there, and they’ve just kept it on that grand scale,” he said.

The show is set to begin between 10-10:15 p.m. depending on conditions. If it’s a cloudy evening, the show will start closer to 10 p.m., while clear skies might prompt a slightly later start time.

Visitors hoping to watch the show can do so from vantage points including Dockton Park and Jensen Point.

Hydro race

Vashon’s hydroplane race — a beloved island Fourth of July tradition for more than seven decades — will return this year, kicking off at 5 a.m. at Jensen Point.

Designed to use water to lift them into the air, islanders will get a chance to watch the hydroplanes take off, and for those who stick around, to touch back down onto the water.

“There will probably be 250 people at Jensen Point at 5 a.m. if you believe it or not, to watch this thing,” said Brian Brenno, an islander and author of the 2022 book, “4th of July Hydros: Circling Vashon Since 1955.”

Island legend Roger Stanley made his first trip around the island in his hydroplane in 1955 — considered by many as the beginning of the annual tradition. Around 1958, when Stanley and his neighbor Warren Bibbins acquired nicer hydros, the two would race each other around the island, Brenno said.

In the years that followed, the race has grown into an annual event linking generations of islanders.

“There’s been a cast of probably 60 or 70 islanders that have raced around the island, and been part of the tradition,” Brenno said. “Its part of their heritage.”

In the days leading up to the Fourth of July, the sounds of hydros flying through the air will fill the island as hopeful participants practice for the event. The event’s final lineup won’t be confirmed until around July 3, Brenno said.

Resources for pets

For cats, dogs and other pets, fireworks can be distressing. Luckily, Vashon has many resources to keep pets safe this Fourth of July.

Island animal rescue organization, Haven, will have a team of first responders to search for and pick up any spooked pets that may have run off after hearing the booms of fireworks.

The organization held a free micro chipping event on June 28, and has set up a number of microchip readers around the island. Stations can be found at the soon-to-be location of Heights Grocery, at the back lot of Fair Isle Animal Clinic, at Engels Repair and Towing and on 131st Ave SW near Haven.

Contact Haven by calling or texting 206-876-9652 or emailing info@havenrescue.org.

Vashon Island Pet Protectors is another island organization with resources for islanders with pets. To report a lost or found pet, visit vipp.org to make a report. Islanders can also contact VIPP by calling 206-389-1085 or emailing lostandfound@vipp.org.

Fireworks ban

As crackling fireworks sound and light up the skies throughout Washington this Fourth of July weekend, keep in mind that the sale and use of consumer fireworks are banned throughout unincorporated King County.

To avoid being issued a civil penalty for using or selling fireworks, the county asks residents to find other ways to celebrate the holiday.

To report violations, call 206-848-0800 or visit tinyurl.com/2y9ffzfh. All complaints will be investigated by King County Department of Local Services Permitting Division.

Although consumer fireworks are banned on Vashon, professional fireworks are allowed, and islanders hoping to catch a firework show can take part in the annual show held by Pyro Spectaculars at Quartermaster Harbor.

Stage one burn ban

In anticipation of above average temperatures this summer, Fire Marshal Eric Urban issued a stage one burn ban for unincorporated King County on June 22. The ban prohibits yard debris fires and fires set to clear land.

Recreational fires and the use of gas and propane appliances — like grills and smokers — are still allowed. But those planning on starting an outdoor recreational fire — like a bonfire — should be extra cautious and follow county rules. Those who smoke should also make sure to extinguish their cigarettes with extra care.

Approved recreational campfires must use seasoned and dry firewood, be built in a metal or concrete fire pit, not grow more than 3 feet wide, and be 25 feet away from any structure, according to King County. Fires also cannot be used to dispose of debris, and must be at least 10 feet away from vegetation and give overhanging branches 20 feet of space. Fires must always be attended, and completely extinguished after use, or if smoke and ash is disrupting neighbors.

For updated information on current bans, visit tinyurl.com/4w95ywut.