FLORENCE, OR. — The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Florence and the Port of Siuslaw, is inviting Oregonians to experience an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration on the coast like no other. From the Porch Parade to pie-eating contests and culminating with a dazzling fireworks show over the Siuslaw River, this year’s festivities are designed to offer fun for all ages in Historic Old Town Florence.
The multi-day celebration officially kicks off on July 2 with the return of the popular “Porch Parade,” a community-wide event encouraging residents and businesses to deck out their homes, porches, and storefronts in patriotic red, white, and blue. Registration for the Porch Parade is free and open through July 1 at 3:00 p.m. via FlorenceHabitat.org. The first 50 entries will receive yard signs, and all registered locations will be featured on maps available July 2 at the Habitat ReStore or online. Community members are encouraged to vote for their favorite decorated display through July 4 at 4:00 p.m.
Independence Day morning kicks off with the annual Bay Street Bike Parade at 10:00 a.m., a family-friendly procession where participants are encouraged to decorate bikes, scooters, wagons, or anything that rolls in festive flair. Registration and staging begin at 9:00 a.m. on Hemlock Street between Rhododendron Drive and First Street. Additional decorations will be available onsite for those needing a last-minute patriotic touch. Those not participating are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and line Bay Street to cheer on friends, family, and neighbors as they pass by.
Later that afternoon, things get messy in the best way possible with the crowd-favorite Pie and Watermelon Eating Contests. Held at 2:00 p.m. on the east end of the waterfront boardwalk near Bridgeport Market, these contests invite participants aged 5 to 105 to compete in a sweet and juicy battle to the finish. Sign-ups begin at 10:30 a.m. the day of the event and are limited to the first 35 entries per age group. Participation is free, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Categories are divided into ages 5–10, 11–15, and 16 and older, with trophies awarded to the fastest eaters. A cookie bake sale fundraiser benefiting Florence Habitat for Humanity will also be held at the contest site.
As the sun begins to set, the musical portion of the evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with live and recorded entertainment on the Three Rivers Casino Resort Stage. DJ Al Rojas will host and provide patriotic music leading into the evening’s grand finale. Local favorite FM DAZE will take the stage as part of a four-hour outdoor show, and prize drawings will take place throughout the evening.
The celebration culminates in one of the Oregon Coast’s most anticipated fireworks displays. Beginning around 10:00 p.m., a professionally choreographed show by Western Display Fireworks will light up the sky from the east end of the Port of Siuslaw Campground. The fireworks will reflect over the Siuslaw River, creating a stunning visual experience visible from across Old Town, along the bridge, and other vantage points. Private fireworks are not allowed, ensuring a safe and centralized experience for all.
“This year, the City of Florence, the Port of Siuslaw, and the Chamber have once again come together to fund and organize a celebration worthy of our nation’s birthday,” said Chamber President/CEO Bettina Hannigan. “We’re excited to welcome families, visitors, and locals to enjoy the spirit of Independence Day in Oregon’s Coastal Playground.”
Organizers encourage everyone across the region to make Florence a holiday destination for the entire weekend—whether for shopping, dining, playing on the dunes, or taking in the full slate of festivities.
Anyone wishing to support the event financially or through sponsorships can contact the Chamber at 541-997-3128 or visit the Visitors Center at 290 Highway 101. More information on the full schedule of events, volunteer opportunities, and Chamber membership can be found at FlorenceFun.com.