By The CHS Independence Day Robot
CHS has a long-running tradition of our annual “where to watch fireworks” post, and in 2025, as we mark the 249th birthday of the United States of America and mark the final stages of capitalism, the tradition is now fully automated! Here are this year’s ideas compiled by our AI reporter on where you can walk to watch the fireworks and celebrate with your closest neighborhood patriots without leaving Capitol Hill. America!
The 2025 Lake Union fireworks show, part of the Seafair 4th of July celebration, is planned to begin around 10:15 PM Friday. The show typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes. This year, the show is sponsored by Amazon. Thanks, tech giant neighbors, and way to get that sponsorship in before things go kaput. Who knows if the country makes it to 250.
The prime Capitol Hill-connected viewing zone stretches along our northwest edge above Eastlake along steep streets like Boston and Lynn or some blocks of Harvard Ave E. 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.
You can also watch from home. The Seafair 4th of July fireworks will be broadcast on KONG-TV this year.
Music? In the past there have been simulcasts broadcast on 106.1 FM but we haven’t seen any update on that for 2025. Maybe explore democracy and provide your own jams.
One nearby resident’s request from years ago remains in effect: “Please, please, PLEASE take your trash with you: there are 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, America…”
The Lakeview overpass is closed to cars and pedestrians during the show. On past 4ths, SPD has made a special plea for one of the most popular western edge viewing spots: officers 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”
- “Around the corner by the Roanoke”: You might even be able to cover your drinks with a coaster, watch the show, and find them still there when you return. Plus, 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 leave fields like Cal Anderson’s 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.”
Sweet land of liberty!
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