It’s been a while. “For the first time in three years” is something Seattle residents will have to get used to hearing this summer. But, yes, after two years of pandemic cancellations, 4th of July fireworks will return to the skies above Lake Union. Hide your pets. Get ready for an unfortunate and frighteningly immediate spike in the air quality index. And enjoy the show.

Here are some ideas on where you can walk to watch the fireworks and celebrate America — or not — with your closest neighborhood pals without leaving Capitol Hill.

• The Lake Union fireworks show is planned to begin around 10:20 PM. It will last about 21 minutes.
• The prime Capitol Hill-connected viewing zone stretches along our northwest edge above Eastlake.
• Lakeview Boulevard E, just north of the Belmont-Eastlake I-5 overpass is a great, crowded, and fun place to watch.
• Do not try to park anywhere in the area. You will fail.
• One nearby resident ask from years ago remains in effect: “Please, please, PLEASE take your trash with you: there people that live here and have to clean up the next day.” And adds this important note: “Also: don’t pee on our fence. C’mon!” To which we reply: “But this is America!”
• The Lakeview overpass is usually closed to cars and pedestrians during the show.
• Prior to past 4ths, SPD has made a special plea for one of the most popular western edge viewing spots:
  [O]fficers need your help keeping the intersection of Belmont Ave and Bellevue Pl. E. clear for emergency vehicles. In recent years, the intersection has become a popular spot during 4th Festivities, which is problematic as it’s also a direct link between Lakeview and South Lake Union. Please help police keep the street clear this year.
• SPD also reminds that possession of fireworks in Seattle is against the law and that police would prefer you do NOT call 911 to report fireworks and loud bangs during the holiday.

More Capitol Hill viewpoints and tips

• “Near Bellevue Place Park“
• “Side streets off 10th Ave E like E Boston or E Lynn”
• “There’s good views around the corner by the Roanoke. You can even cover your drinks with a coaster while you go watch the show and they’ll still be there when you get back. Also pong.”
• Various peek-a-boo views from the I-5 Shores area of the Hill
• On the east edge of the Hill around 22nd and Galer affords a view of various Eastside displays.
• Parks will leaves fields like Bobby Morris lit through the night to discourage shenanigans that would damage the artificial sports grass.
• And, no matter where you decide to watch from, remember these words of wisdom from the CHS comments: “The view here is stellar, but please don’t leave your trash all over my neighborhood when you’re done watching shit blow up.”

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